A study conducted by Carol Martin, Pat Dickson, and Francisco Villarruel at the University of Wisconsin-Madison suggests that so long as teachers structure the activity right, there is little cause for concern with young children using computers. They videotaped the social interaction of preschoolers in three activities: dramatic play, lunchtime, and using a personal computer. Surprisingly, they found that interaction between children was highest during computer play. Dramatic play and snacktime were often dominated by more socially outgoing children. In contrast, pairing children for computer activities offered a greater chance for shy children to participate and talk.
NNCC

Whether folks who grow up with computers are better or worse at social interaction is actually a pretty complex question. Looking at how communications technology is used in Third World countries, the results are far from definitive, but:

Daniel Litvin, senior research fellow at Chatham House, where the event was held, said he was sceptical of sweeping claims about any technology. "I am suspicious of any claims that any product will make the world a better place," he said. "However, I have had some of my scepticism dispelled by case studies such as the project in Kenya to use text messages to contact peace activists."
ZDNet

Also, I remember a study done several years ago where every home in a small town was supplied with a computer and internet access and the result was that social interaction actually increased due to the ease of setting up social meetings and get-togethers.

There's a Powerpoint slideshow on the social impact of computers (that obviously works better with a live lecturer) that's helpful in raising lots of good questions.

Whether computers are good or bad for social interaction is far from an open-and-shut case.

Rich Gardner

http://www.prawnworks.net/