The Media Industry Research Foundation recently announced that it has granted 40,000 euros in research support to Tampere University for their project titled „EU Kids Online Research in Finland 2024–2025: Children as Actors on the Internet, Digital Media Literacy and Learning.“ This decision was made at the foundation’s meeting on June 5, highlighting the importance of understanding children’s experiences, risks, and problems in the digital age.
The EU Kids Online research project is a significant initiative in Europe that focuses on studying how children and young people use the internet. Each participating country has a dedicated research team responsible for collecting and analyzing data. The research in Finland is part of this larger international project, which aims to provide valuable insights into children’s online behavior and digital literacy.
Professor Sirkku Kotilainen, an expert in Media Education, emphasized that the third round of research will delve deeper into children’s critical thinking skills in relation to artificial intelligence, fake news, and fact-checking practices. This expanded focus on critical digital skills reflects the evolving landscape of online content and the need for children to navigate it effectively.
As part of the project, 10-15-year-old children will participate in an online survey in primary schools across 25 European countries in the fall of 2024. This approach ensures geographical representativeness and allows for a comprehensive analysis of children’s online behaviors and attitudes towards digital media.
The longitudinal nature of the study enables researchers to track the development of internet use among children over time. By comparing data from previous rounds of the EU Kids Online study, researchers can identify trends and changes in children’s technical skills, understanding of AI-based communication, and ability to discern fake news.
The research will cover a wide range of topics, including media offerings such as news content and user-generated publishing on various platforms. This comprehensive approach aims to provide a holistic view of children’s online experiences and equip them with the necessary skills to navigate the digital world safely and effectively.
Overall, the EU Kids Online Research in Finland project represents a crucial effort to understand and support children as active participants in the digital landscape. By focusing on critical digital skills and emerging challenges, researchers aim to empower children to make informed decisions online and enhance their digital media literacy.