There is clear generational distinction between the
Digital Natives – our teenage population who have grown up with new media and
Digital Immigrants – the older generation of parents and teachers that has grown up without new media. Our young people are more in tune with, more accustomed to and indeed probably more dependent on technology. ChildWise research (Irish children aged 5-16 years) found that children spend approx. 1hr 20min a day online. 1/3 of children access the Internet from their bedroom.
While new developments have undoubtedly brought benefits to business, education and life in general, they have also brought extra pressures when mew media particularly social networking sites are abused.
The top 2 sites accessed by Irish children aged 5-16 years are Facebook and YouTube