Increasingly, technology is mediating the way in which the youth around the world communicate, consume content and create meaning. As mobile communication media and the internet become more pervasive, young people from different cultures and communities are afforded more opportunities for collaboration across previously unbridgeable distances.

“On the Internet, nobody knows you’re a dog.”

Ms. Nakamura said she has been more surprised by completely new kinds of racism on some popular online video games that now count players around the world.

Many of the players chose to play as a female dwarf, a class in the game that can more easily win treasure on solo missions

Technology has had an outstanding effect on modern society and culture.  It provides us with tools that enhance our ability to network through internet communities which includes anything from online gaming to applications such as Facebook or Twitter.  Internet communities promote freedom of expression that may not be as feasible in real life.  Real life, inevitably, contains many stereotypes and whether we believe in them or not, they are still in existence subconsciously

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The average kid sponges in 2.5 hours of music each day, almost five hours of TV and movies, three hours of Internet and video games, and just 38 minutes of old-fashioned reading

And that doesn't even include the hour and a half spent text messaging each day, and the half hour kids talk on the cell phone.

But what about homework?

Cyberbullying is threatening, lying about, stalking or otherwise harassing a person online or via other electronic communication devices like a cell phone

How to Prevent Your Child from Being Victimized

Be your child’s support system

Parents need to be the one trusted place kids can go when things go wrong online and offline. Yet they often are the one place kids avoid when things go wrong online. Why? Parents tend to overreact.

Parents need to be supportive of your child during this time

Let the school know so the guidance counselor can keep an eye out for in-school bullying and for how your child is handling things.

First step, if you don't have a Facebook account, get one and learn about it before you allow your teen to get one. Another suggestion, teach your kids to use common sense. Don't put your social security number, address or phone number online. Finally, don't teach your kids to be dishonest!

Studies now show a link in electronics and ADHD/ADD. What kids really need in face time with mom and dad

  There is a time and place for technology, but to rely on it to "babysit" our children is not the answer.

Technology is training our kids to expect results now.

Many American classrooms are almost indistinguishable from those that students' grandparents attended.  Twenty-something students still sit in desks facing the front of the classroom, with textbooks, listening to a generalist teacher.

A new perspective is needed.  Americans need to consider the fundamental question:  How can we most effectively teach kids the skills they need? 

Traditional schools may be best for some students, while others will thrive in moire high-tech learning centers. 

Video time provides no educational benefits for children younger than 2 and leaves less room for activities that do, such as interacting with other people and playing, the group said.

1. Power down at mealtimes. This means no television, computers or texting. This is the time to really connect with each other without the technological distractions that can be so overwhelming throughout the day. 2. No computers in kids' bedrooms until at least high school. Please trust me on this one. The risks just aren't worth it. Keep computers in public areas of your house, and regularly monitor their usage. 3. Limit or eliminate television viewing on school nights. You'll be amazed at the impact this will have on your family. Kids play games, become creative and interact with us and their siblings. 4. No social media networks until at least high school, and supervise their use. Many kids just don't have the impulse control to adequately control this technology, and the effects on them and others can be substantial. 5. Supervise cell phone use, including texting. You need to be guided by the maturity of your child, but irresponsible behavior should result in increased supervision. 6. Learn about technology. Don't be afraid of texting, video-conferencing, iPads, or Facebook. They are fun and great ways to stay connected with your kids.