Assessing children's understanding of basic time concepts through multimedia software

The purpose of this study is to examine the role of the computer with multimedia software in assessing the perception of the basic time concepts by children. Special multimedia software was developed, using a high level language which simulated standard time perception tests. A random sample of 374 school and pre-school age (4–11 years old) children was used in the comparative study divided into two balanced groups. Results indicated superiority in children’s judgements when multimedia software was used. This superiority was most pronounced in experiments that involved motion or action. A positive correlation between age and comprehension was detected. The subject’s sex or parents occupation did no seem to make an appreciable difference. The findings of this study are discussed in terms of the applicability of computer multimedia technology, in the area of assessing the concept of time in children. # 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.