Observing 3-5 Year Old Children's Use of Interactive Electronic Devices (IED) in the Family Home to Understand the Context These Devices Are Being Used in, Exploring Whether Socioeconomic Factors or Parent's Own Use of Such Devices Influence the Child's IED Usage.
This study aims to understand how young children, specifically those aged 3 to 5, use interactive electronic devices like tablets and smartphones in their home environment. Researchers want to see when, how, and why children use these devices, and if things like their family's background or how much their parents use devices influence this. They believe such devices are common in children's lives, but we don't fully understand the everyday situations surrounding their use. The study will involve observing children at home, asking parents questions, and discussing video clips of children using devices. This will help create a clearer picture for families and carers.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is all about understanding how children between 3 and 5 years old really use touchscreen devices such as tablets and smartphones at home. We know these gadgets are a big part of many children's lives in the UK, but we don't fully understand the everyday situations, family routines, and other factors that shape how and when children use them.
The researchers want to explore various aspects, including whether a family's financial background or parents' own habits with these devices might affect their child's use. Currently, there isn't much information available that looks at children actually using devices in their home environment, which is why this study is so important. It aims to fill these gaps in our knowledge.
By gathering detailed observations and insights from parents, this study hopes to provide a clearer picture of how young children engage with technology. This information could be very helpful for parents, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the role of interactive devices in early childhood.
Key takeaways
- Study focuses on how children aged 3-5 use tablets/smartphones at home.
- Aims to understand family and social factors influencing device use.
- Involves home video recordings and parent interviews.
- Looks at how parents' device use or family background might play a role.
- Findings could help provide a clearer picture for families and educators.
Who may be eligible?
To take part in this study, children need to be between 3 and 5 years old and already use an interactive electronic device like a tablet or smartphone. Their parents or guardians must be happy for them to participate and give their consent.
It's important that parents or guardians can speak and understand English well enough to communicate with the researchers. Children who have been diagnosed with a developmental condition by a doctor, health visitor, or nurse, are not able to join this particular study.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Is your child aged between 3 and 5 years old?
- Does your child already use a tablet or smartphone?
- Are you, as a parent or guardian, comfortable speaking and understanding English?
- Has your child *not* received a formal medical diagnosis of a developmental disorder?
What does participation involve?
Taking part in this study involves a few steps to help researchers understand your child's device use. First, you'll be asked to fill out some questionnaires about how you and your child use devices. Then, the researchers will visit your home for three separate sessions, each lasting about four hours, over one week. During these sessions, they'll make video recordings of your child in their natural home setting when they use their interactive device. After the recording period, the researchers will review some of these video clips with you during a 60-90 minute interview, where you can share your thoughts and insights about what you observe. The overall duration from the initial questionnaires to the final interview will likely be spread over a few weeks.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Sheffield Hallam UniversityVerified postcodeSheffield, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What kind of devices are you interested in?
We're interested in portable screen devices like tablets and smartphones that children use.
Will you be watching my child all the time?
Researchers will be present during three recording sessions over a week, capturing moments when your child uses their device in their usual home environment.
How will my family's privacy be protected?
All information shared and recorded will be kept confidential, and your family's privacy is a top priority for the researchers.
Do I have to do anything other than let you record?
Yes, you'll also be asked to complete some questionnaires and participate in an interview where you can discuss the video clips with the researchers.
What happens to the video recordings?
Selected parts of the recordings will be used to discuss with you in an interview to understand your child's device use. They help the researchers learn about how children interact with technology.
How to find out more
Eleanor Craig, PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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