JultikaUniversity of Oulu repository

Abstract

Technology has found its way into the hands of young children propelling various researchers to carry out a series of research on the impact which the usage is having on the young children. In the available studies concerning the young children on the effect of technology and mobile application, most researchers have focused either attention on the advantages or the disadvantages.

This research work is not focusing on the advantages and disadvantages but instead looking through the two research questions, which are 1. What role do the use of smart devices and mobile apps play in the lives of toddlers and preschoolers? 2. Should toddlers and preschoolers be allowed to use a smart device? to address the role of mobile technology and its’ application on young children.

The research methodology used in this work is the qualitative research methods implemented by carrying out a survey. The survey is used to carry out data collection from 20 parents in-order to create a framework for the basis of the result driven.

The findings made confirms that smart device and the usage of mobile apps is playing a big role on the young children, but parents are obligated to provide protection and control to mitigate the negative effects could bring on the users.

Mobile application for young children has come to stay and will continue to grow; parents should take note on how their kids use the device and for what purpose it used. Likewise, app developers should develop a more suitable app for young children. Also, regulatory bodies in charge of applications developed for young children should regulate what sort of advert pops-up in applications developed for young children