In 2021, children’s internet usage patterns saw a major shift as Turkish schools shifted to online education due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. This shift is primarily for educational purposes, with the vast majority of children taking classes and homework online, while 66% are addicted to online gaming, making it the third most popular online activity.
Education takes a digital leap
The pandemic has accelerated the digital transformation of education, forcing students to adapt to online learning platforms. This shift is more than just a temporary adjustment, but highlights a major move to incorporate digital tools into education. With the majority of Turkish children using the internet for educational purposes, it is clear that digital literacy and access are becoming critical to academic success. This reliance on online educational resources highlights the importance of a robust and accessible digital infrastructure to support student learning needs.
Gaming: a popular pastime
In addition to educational activities, online gaming has become a popular pastime among Turkish children, with two-thirds of children participating in this activity. The surge in interest in online gaming highlights the digital duality of the Internet as an educational and entertainment resource. While gaming provides cognitive and social benefits, such as problem-solving skills and online socialization, it also raises questions about screen time management and the need to balance online activities.
Impact on digital education and online safety
The increase in Internet use in Turkish children’s education and gaming reveals important considerations for digital education policy and online safety protocols. Ensuring equitable access to digital education tools, improving digital literacy and protecting children online is critical. This situation provides an opportunity for policymakers, educators, and parents to collaborate to create a balanced and safe digital environment that supports educational development and responsible online participation.
As we reflect on these developments, it is clear that the pandemic has not only changed the way Turkish children learn and play, but also how society as a whole views and utilizes digital technologies. This evolution to a more digital lifestyle presents both challenges and opportunities, forcing a re-evaluation of digital infrastructure, education policies and online safety measures to better serve young people in a post-pandemic world needs of a generation.