Human being shave faced with a rapidly changing of information technology. New technological devices render novel and digital social environments, communication ways and literacy types (Selber, 2004; Tyner, 2014). The... [ view full abstract ]
Human being shave faced with a rapidly changing of information technology. New technological devices render novel and digital social environments, communication ways and literacy types (Selber, 2004; Tyner, 2014). The increasing number of young children have accessed and used technological devices such as computers, cellphones, tablets, etc. Children can play games, read and listen stories, paint pictures, watch cartoons and use educational software interactively through these devices. With advances in technology, children are also exposed to “techno-literacy” environments in their daily lives and they have digital childhood (Carrington & Marsh, 2005; Vandewater et al., 2007). Studies showed that children’s digital experiences contributed to their academic and literacy skills (Foy & Mann,2003; Judge, Puckett, & Bell, 2006; Marsh, 2004; Marsh & Thompson, 2001). Foy and Mann(2003) examined the reading related media (TV show, computer and video games etc.) effects on children’s literacy skills. They found that reading media is directly associated with children’s phonemic and rhyme awareness. Judge, Puckett and Bell (2006) pointed out digital equity issue. They indicated that the opportunity to access quality digital sources and use these sources effectively are important issues for digital equity.
Turkey is a developing country and the increasing number of individuals has the access of digital sources (Turkish Statistics Institute, 2012). Besides, some children have limitedly access to the digital sources (Altun, 2013). Therefore, the present study aims to investigate young children's literacy habits regarding digital equity issues. For this aim, the researcher interviewed 12 preschoolers and their parents and teachers. Half of the children were from low SES families and half of them were from high SES families. The findings of the study will be discussed in the light of the related literature.
The study was supported by the Ahi Evran University Scientific Research Projects Coordination Unit. Project Number:EGT.E2.17.027
