The use of smartphones and tablets in childhood education. A research proposal to empower children

Abstract

The current media ecosystem and the omnipresence of screens have become leading elements into hyperconnected society. Minors have been appointed as digital natives and they are in touch with technology at youngest ages. Today we have a lot of studies that confirm real contact with electronic devices and mobile technology, however there is a remarked lack of researches that attributes voice to children and it allow them to show their views and their interests. Because of this, we need take into account the right of children to participate and the right to be heard. In this way we have designed a tool that allows us to show their interests; a tool which allows us to give voice to children. The instrument has been built according to three dimensions: Provision, protection and participation which are designed around different categories. These categories justify the value of different techniques which are made up the instrument. In this way, we used it to obtain information. We will use this tool in appropriate environments for participation; we will be looking for familiar spaces for children, comfortable environments in which they do not feel intimidated. The instrument will be applied to children in little groups; we will use this technique in order to delete adult's influence, as far as possible.