Feb 9 β€’ 09:12 UTC πŸ‡°πŸ‡· Korea Hankyoreh (KR)

The Unchanging Landscape of Lunar New Year in the Age of AI, Encountered through Picture Books

The article discusses the impact of smartphones and AI on children's interactions and emphasizes the importance of face-to-face communication during Lunar New Year gatherings.

In the current era where smartphones and AI have become part of daily life, children's worlds are rapidly evolving, mirroring the changes in adult society. Children now turn to their smartphones for information and instead of talking to real friends, they often seek advice from generative AI services. This shift towards convenience and speed has led to a gradual loss of valuable experiences such as waiting and engaging in face-to-face conversations, which are essential for emotional and social development.

Cultural critic and historian Kristin Rosen highlights in her book 'The Extinction of Experience' that substituting direct interactions with screen-mediated ones has serious emotional and developmental implications. Quoting Stanford University professor Clifford Nass, Rosen points out that children need to learn about emotions through attentive interactions with others, stressing the importance of looking into each other's eyes. This shift in the way children interact calls for introspection about how much time remains for genuine connections amidst the digital distractions.

As Lunar New Year approaches, it offers a significant opportunity for children to engage in valuable face-to-face interactions with family and relatives. The holiday is a time when families come together, allowing children to experience the importance of waiting for relatives to arrive and the joy of sharing heartfelt conversations. To convey the true meaning of Lunar New Year to children, utilizing picture books tailored to their perspective can be an effective approach, potentially enhancing their emotional and interpersonal development in this digital age.

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