Socio-Spatial Studies

Socio-Spatial Studies

ICT for children: The continuous need for media literacy

Authors
Aida Arsalani 1
Sahand Sakhaei 2
Mahsa Zamani 3
1 PhD Student in Media Management, University of Tehran, Kish, Iran
2 BA Student in Law, Payame Noor University, Bostan Abad, Iran
3 PhD in Media Management, University of Tehran, Kish, Iran
10.22034/soc.2022.211944
Abstract
The increasing integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in children's lives necessitates a continuous emphasis on media literacy. As digital environments become intrinsic to education, entertainment, and social interaction, children are exposed to vast amounts of content, unfiltered, complex, and often harmful. This paper explores the imperative role of media literacy in equipping children with critical thinking skills to experience the digital landscape responsibly. By analyzing contemporary challenges, including misinformation, cyberbullying, and digital addiction, this study highlights how media literacy fosters cognitive resilience and ethical engagement online. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the role of educators, parents, and policymakers in furthering a collaborative approach to digital education. Media literacy is positioned not as a singular skill but as an evolving competency, integral to ensuring children's empowerment and safety. The findings show that there is an urgent need for structured media literacy programs, tailored to the cognitive and emotional development of children, to mitigate risks and harness the opportunities presented by ICT. We also recommend that children’s use of ICT should be kept as minimal as possible.
Keywords
Media literacy
ICT
Children
Digital safety
Critical thinking

 

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Socio-Spatial Studies
Volume 6, Issue 1
Winter 2022
Pages 1-12