Effects of Interactive Television and Live Interaction on the Acquisition of Cognitive Skills in Preschoolers

Abstract

In two experiments, cognitive effects of interactive television designed for preschool-aged children were investigated. In Experiment 1, a short-term longitudinal assessment of the cable television program Blue's Clues, shown on Nickelodeon, was conducted. Results of Experiment 1 suggest that the benefits of Blue's Clues on cognitive skills may be greater if children have an opportunity to interact with an adult in play using those skills, regardless of whether they view the program. In Experiment 2, a replication and extension was conducted with lab-produced videos. Results support those of Experiment 1; in both cases interactions that made implicit information more explicit and concrete aided children 's understanding and generalization of such content. Results are discussed in terms of implications for child-care policy and practice, with particular attention to low-income populations, foundations for literacy, and future research.