'Young people are spending more time each day on their computers than watching television. Is this a change for the better?'

We are interested in your views on this topic. You can contribute to the debate by sending us a short article with your opinion.

Name: Irina

Before addressing the question of what is better for young people, I would like to remind {***} {1}that both activities (spending time on a computer and watching television) are harmful for children's/teen's{2} health. {***}

At the other side {3} it's impossible to imagine our life without computers and television.

With the help of computers young people can meet new friends, find out a lot of information, {***} {4} take part in forums and discussions. Surfing the Internet needs imagination, logical thinking and knowledge. Young people are able to choose what they want to watch/read/listen to, and the choice is practically unlimited.

Television can't give such an opportunity.

Precisely here is found the crux of the problem{5}. There are plenty of free sites with content far from morality{6}; many computer games impose cruelty. And the idea that, spending time in Internet's chats young people develop their social skills, is problematic{7}. I wish it would be so!{8} But getting used to the Internet's rules of comunication, they might find it difficult to face up to reality, {***} {9}make friends in the real world.

For my part, I spend a lot of time on my computer (learning English and working). But when I want to relax I'd rather watch TV with my friends than loiter away {10} time sitting alone in front of the computer!