Original Articles
Study on the Effect of Early Exposure to Digital Learning Tools on Language Development in Toddlers | |
Dr. Neeraj Sharma, Dr. Tribhuvanesh Yadav | |
Aim: This study aimed to investigate the effect of early exposure to digital learning tools on language development in toddlers, focusing on vocabulary size, sentence complexity, expressive and receptive language skills, and gesture communication. Material and Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital, enrolling 140 toddlers aged 18–36 months. Participants were divided into two groups: the Digital Learning Exposure (DLE) group, with daily exposure to digital tools for at least 30 minutes, and the Control group, with limited or no exposure (<10 minutes per week). Data were collected at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months using the MacArthur-Bates Communicative Development Inventories (CDI). Parental satisfaction and perceived child engagement were also assessed through questionnaires. Statistical analysis included paired t-tests, independent t-tests, and multivariate regression models, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: At baseline, no significant differences were observed between the groups in demographic characteristics or language scores (p > 0.05). At 3 months, the DLE group showed significant improvements in vocabulary size (185.35 ± 20.40 vs. 160.25 ± 22.10, p < 0.001) and expressive language skills (90.40 ± 10.10 vs. 82.50 ± 11.30, p = 0.030). At 6 months, these differences became more pronounced, with vocabulary size (210.75 ± 18.10 vs. 175.50 ± 20.40, p < 0.001) and expressive language skills (105.50 ± 8.30 vs. 92.75 ± 9.20, p < 0.001) showing significant improvements. Parental satisfaction (85.71%) and perceived child engagement (92.86%) were significantly higher in the DLE group (p < 0.001). A strong positive correlation was observed between digital exposure duration and language outcomes (r = 0.72–0.75, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Early exposure to digital learning tools significantly enhances language development in toddlers, with structured, high-quality content and parental involvement playing crucial roles in maximizing benefits. Digital tools can serve as valuable supplements to traditional language-learning methods when used appropriately and in moderation. |
|
Html View | Download PDF | Current Issue |
IJLBPR
322 Parlount Road Slough Berkshire SL3 8AX, UK
ijlbpr@gmail.com
© IJLBPR. All Rights Reserved.