Profile

Dr Pauline Roberts

Dr Pauline Roberts investigates the use of digital technologies by parents when they visit the library with their young children and the role of the librarian through this, with the aim to further explore this connection with early learning centres. Pauline hopes that her work in the Centre will help identify what is currently happening between libraries, families and early childhood educators and identify areas to enhance and expand these connections. Her vision for children is to have a balance, so they can use technology but also flourish with it as part of wider contexts. Pauline would also like to see a reduction in the digital divide so all children have the opportunity to excel.

Pauline is widely published in the area of technology in early childhood, including a recent book chapter in Digitising Early Childhood (2019) titled ‘Selecting apps for young learners: What should be considered‘. In 2016, Pauline was part of a team awarded an Edith Cowan University Learning and Teaching Small Grant for a project that explored how to engage students in rich interactive learning with NAO robots. Pauline is Interim Associate Dean – Postgraduate Studies; and a Senior Lecturer in the School of Education at Edith Cowan University.

Earliest digital memory
I remember using an old computer to complete university assignments and the dot printer that would make strange noises as it printed. To now know that much more can be done with more advanced technology now. As I see the ubiquitous nature of technology now and the silences, I realise how far we have come, but also that there is still a need to be critical of how we engage with technology.



More People

The Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child acknowledges the First Australian owners of the lands on where we gather and pay our respects to the Elders, lores, customs and creation spirits of this country.

The Centre recognises that the examples we set in diversity and inclusion will support young children to respect and celebrate differences in all people. We embed diversity, inclusivity and equality into all aspects of the Centre’s activities and welcome all people regardless of race, ethnicity, social background, religion, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation and national origin.