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TECHNOLOGY HAVING IMPACT ON FAMILIES, PANEL OF EXPERTS SAY
(New Zealand Press Association Via Thomson Dialog NewsEdge)Wellington, May 31 NZPA - Low income families are becoming marginalised in an increasingly digital society, according to a panel of communications technology experts.
This was one of several key themes identified by twelve experts, including academics, consultants, government advisors and researchers, who were asked for their views on the impact of ICT (information communication technologies) on families as part of a Families Commission study.
Researcher Dr Ann Weatherall said as more and more families jumped on the ICT bandwagon, it was a good time to look at its effect on family relationships.
``As computers and mobile phones drop in price and many families go online, we need to ask important questions about how the technology is shaping family life and how families are shaping the use of technology,'' she said.
The key themes identified were:
* Digital Divide: Families who can't afford a computer or Internet connection are likely to lag behind other families in computer skills and knowledge. Low income families could become marginalised in an increasingly digital society.
* Cyber Safety: The best way to protect children from offensive material is to keep computers in public spaces, monitor Internet usage and discuss appropriate use of the Internet. Every family needs to have an adult who is Internet-savvy and willing to take on the role of monitoring and advising on Internet use in their household.
* Family Communications and Relationships: Internet access can improve communication between family members. Migrant families and iwi particularly benefit because they are likely to be geographically separated. However, it is important that children are encouraged to find a balance between computer use and other activities.
* Gaming: Gaming is of particular concern given New Zealand's relaxed gaming classification system. Families need to make sure their children are only playing games appropriate to their age.
The experts also thought it was important to get culturally relevant and appropriate New Zealand content online.
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