Children are growing, learning and connecting with digital technology that’s rapidly evolving and changing. Yet little is known about children’s use of digital technologies and their positive impacts or potential risks and harms.
Australians are asking: How can technology help my child learn? How do I know good digital engagement from bad? How much technology is safe for my child? How do I keep my child safe online?
Our vision is to ensure young children grow up healthy, connected, and educated in a rapidly changing digital world.
The Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child will help answer these questions for all Australians who look out for the health, education and happiness of young children, including parents and caregivers; teachers and educators; government and policy makers; and community and business organisations.
The Centre’s program of research has been designed to help inform three key areas that impact and influence on children’s lives – technology, education and policy. We are uniquely transdisciplinary – our studies intersect across areas of Health, Education and Connectedness to provide a holistic view of children’s experiences and the impact of digital technologies.
Family Study
A global-first longitudinal study of 3000 families, focussing on children from birth to eight years of age.
Research impact and outcomes
Education
Our research will inform curriculum and pedagogy to enable digital learning, participation and enjoyment
Policy
We’ll deliver research outcomes that will inform policy stakeholders about children’s digital experiences
Innovation
We’ll provide evidence-based research to optimise children’s use of digital technology