#Vienna #Austria #DIGYMATEX #Digital Maturity #Technology Use

DIGYMATEX Project Launches App for Children

On December 9, 2024, the DIGYMATEX Project will present a groundbreaking mobile application aimed at promoting healthier technology habits among children and teenagers. This initiative is particularly timely as children are increasingly immersed in the digital world, with many spending substantial hours online. The app will be showcased during the project's concluding conference titled "Growing Up on Screens," held at the University of Vienna and streamed online for a wider audience.

Empowering Young Users

With the app designed for users aged between 9 to 18, it offers a suite of engaging interactive activities and personalized feedback to foster better digital habits. Prof. Marco Hubert, the project coordinator from Aarhus University in Denmark, indicates that this app is crucial for developing self-determined and socially responsible technology usage among youngsters.

The app focuses on three fundamental aspects:
1. Choice: Children can select their activities and challenges, instilling a sense of autonomy.
2. Confidence: Through gamified lessons, the app teaches essential skills for safe and smart usage of technology.
3. Support: A friendly digital guide motivates kids with encouraging messages and progress updates, enhancing their learning experience.

Key Findings Presentation

During the conference, researchers will also share significant findings from over four years of study on the use of digital technology by children. With the rise of screen time, it has become vital to understand how digital platforms impact younger generations. Prof. Sonia Livingstone from the London School of Economics will deliver a keynote speech, emphasizing a Child Rights approach to digital maturity.

Significance of the DIGYMATEX App

According to Prof. Hubert, the DIGYMATEX App is not merely an educational tool; it reflects the project's commitment to empowering children in navigating their digital journeys. The app promotes healthy technology habits by equipping users with the knowledge to make thoughtful decisions regarding their online activities. This is especially significant in an era where digital interactions can have profound implications for well-being.

A Collaborative Effort

The DIGYMATEX initiative is backed by the EU Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme and the Canadian government, bringing together twelve partner organizations from prestigious universities and technology firms across ten countries. This international collaboration is focused on creating evidence-based resources that can help assess digital maturity among children and teenagers.

The concluding conference invites educators, parents, and researchers who are keen to understand the implications of children's technology use and the strategies to navigate it. The combination of innovative technology and research-driven insights aims to pave the way for a generation that is not only digitally skilled but also conscientious about their technology interactions.

For more details, register for the conference, and explore further resources regarding the DIGYMATEX project, visit DIGYMATEX.

This app and its underlying research signify a pivotal stride in understanding and enhancing the relationship children have with technology, ensuring they grow into adept and responsible users.