Australia to lead study of digital impact on children

Australian children will be part of a world-first study to understand the impact digital technology is having on their first eight years of life.

Group Of Children Sit On Window Seat And Use Technology

Source: Getty Images

The Morrison government has put $34.9 million towards a new research centre where the impact of digital technology on Australian children will be studied.

The Morrison government has pledged $34.9 million to help establish a research centre based at the Queensland University of Technology.

"Our children are growing up with unprecedented access to technology and we need to better understand the effect it is having on them," Education Minister Dan Tehan said on Sunday.

"The results of this research will benefit parents and inform improvements to children's health and education policy."




 The new ARC Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child will receive another $32 million from partner organisations both from within Australia and also Europe, Asia and America.

The study will lead to resources to reduce harm children experience from technology.

Lead researcher Susan Danby hopes to create a clear understanding of the digital impact on children, saying there are currently mixed messages.

"Australia will inform international agendas in minimising children's digital risks and maximising positive digital engagement," Ms Danby said.

The study will consider problems related to screen time, social media use, gaming, and online safety.



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2 min read
Published 23 September 2019 11:38am
Updated 23 September 2019 12:57pm
By SBS Nepali
Source: SBS


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