Make your spare time count<br/><br/>

Ipsos-Reid published a report on August 9 based on a research on how the young people in Canada spend their leisure.  The report stated that the youngsters (18-34 years old) spent 14.7 hours per week online, 11.6 hours per week watching television, 11.7 hours per week listening to the radio, and 2.5 hours per week reading newspaper.<br/><br/>

The March report of The Kaiser Family Foundation in America also alleged that the youngsters spent approximately 6.5 hours per day online and watching television.<br/><br/>

Many parents are in a dilemma regarding the online habits of their children.  They understand the importance of computer networking.  However, they are also worried about the misuse of the computers by their children.  Their children often sit in front of the computer desk endlessly, ignoring completely the things, the people and the places around them.  Mr. Acunzo, the promoter of the PC Turnoff Week, which is held during the first week of August each year, made this announcement because of the misuse of the computer by his daughter.  He also promoted many meaningful family activities.<br/><br/>

According to the analysis of the educators, the side-effects of people continuously sitting in front of the computer desk not only affect their health - such as an increase in weight and a decrease in the power of attention - but it also isolates a person from the society.  Chatting online can never replace talking face to face with people.<br/><br/>

The summer holiday will soon be over.  I wish the students will allocate more time for their relatives and friends when planning their study schedules.   Please do not let the machine (computer) control you.