Well, first off, I know that studying subjects doesn't REQUIRE writing, but it sure seems to be the most common method. How much time did we spend writing at school? It seems that all workbooks and curriculum are based on writing. So just in terms of using those things, writing seems to be key. And personally I think it is important...somehow there is a difference between clicking on a correct answer and writing out your work. I think it makes different brain connections...not sure about that though. But I do feel more engaged when I do things the "old fashioned" way - off the computer. So a more specific question is if he is ready to sit down and multiply two digit numbers, but he can't write well enough to keep digits in the right column...is it best to just do this stuff verbally, or to be his scribe, or just hold off until he writes better?
Second, my concern with the computer is that I don't want him to spend too much time in front of it. I want his education to be writing and reading intense, and I don't want too much emphasis on electronics. I know they are the blessing of the age, and of course, he is, like most young kids, good at a computer already. But I don't want it to be a crutch. I want more interpersonal interaction, I want more effort. A computer, as wonderful as it is, does seem to take away a certain amount of effort from thought. It displays everything so neatly in front of you. You don't have to imagine ten groups of six apples, you see the picture...and while this is great and helpful, it takes away the effort of imagination of creating it in your head. I think the computer is to learning what audio books are to reading. Of course, audio books aren't bad and used appropriately they are wonderful. But they are not reading and while they can substitute for it, I don't think they should replace it as a very important and core of all core skills. I read this idea in Susan Wise's Well Trained Mind book and it just resonates with me.
I will try that calculation ranking site on him. It looks interesting - thanks.
