The effect of media communication tools on children during the Covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

The negativities experienced during the Covid 19 pandemic process had an impact not only on families but also on children. In this process, to eliminate the negativities in the field of education, distance education has been directed and online learning has become even more important. The use of media communication tools used for online learning has become widespread. This study aims to reveal the effect of media communication tools on children during the pandemic period with the views of families. It was carried out in accordance with the qualitative research approach. The case study technique was used as the research design. The study group of the research consists of 35 parents who have preschool children. Data were collected from the participants through a semi-structured interview form and the collected data was analyzed through content analysis. As a result of the research, it was revealed that the duration of use of media tools by parents and children increased with the pandemic. Parents stated that they generally found themselves competent in using media tools to support their children's education during the pandemic process. It turns out that parents often use media for news, social media and, research. It was concluded that children mostly use media for education, playing games and, watching cartoons. Finally, parents generally think that media tools are used efficiently in the education process of children. As a suggestion, informative broadcasts about the use of media by children and parents and media-based intervention programs for parents and children in early childhood can be recommended.