In this project we learned how the brain evolves and develops. We then learned about the negative and positive effects of screen time. After we gathered our information, we decided whether the AAP should raise the recommended daily screen time from 2 hours to 4 hours. We decided that they should keep the recommended screen time to 2 hours. We created a trifold to show our findings on the negative effects of screen time and why they should keep the recommended time to 2 hours.  I learned that the prefrontal cortex is the control system for the brain. I also learned that video games have some positive effects such as increasing self-esteem, problem solving skills, and developing visual acuity. Even though there are some positive effects, video games also have many negative effects such as obesity, lack of social interaction, and a language delays in kids under 3. 

Works Cited

Desler, Margaret. “Guest Opinion: Step Away From the Screen.” Contra Costa Times n.d.: 15-16. Web. This article is about going screen-free for a weekend or a few days to spend more time with your family. Margaret Desler is a pediatrician at the Kaiser Permanente Medical Center in Richmond, California who works on combating pediatric obesity.

Giedd, Jay N. “The Digital Revolution and Adolescent Brain Evolution.” Journal of Adolescent Health 51.2 (2012): 101-05. Web. This article is about how technology is effecting the evolution of the adolescent brain. Jay N Giedd is a child and adolescent psychiatrist and a leading researcher on child and teen brain maturation and development.

The Online Educa Debate. By Aric Sigman. Perf. Aric Sigman. N.p., n.d. Web. 5 May 12. The article is about the effects and impacts technology has had on social interaction. Dr. Sigman has a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology, a Master of Science in the Neurophysiological Basis of Behaviour, and a Ph.D.

Richtel, Matt. “Attached to Technology and Paying the Price.” n.d.: 17-25. Web. The article is about being too attached to technology and missing important events in life. Matt Richtel is an author and journalist for The New York Times.