Embedded Files
Engage and listen to the views of children in product development, design and policy.
Consultation is vital to respect children’s voices and experiences in digital innovation. The right to be heard assures children opportunities to ‘freely’ express their views and have these views given ‘due weight’ ‘in all matters affecting [them]’ (UNCRC, Article 12). This right is crucial to counterbalance social and cultural biases against recognising children’s views.
This is one of 11 child rights principles applicable to the digital environment. Together they encompass the full range of child rights covered by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).
Summary of the key evidence from ySKILLS
Summary of the key evidence from ySKILLS
ySKILLS heard that children are adamant in wanting to be consulted about the digital skills and literacies they want to develop and the ways these should be delivered.
However, digital skills are not a priority topic in home–school communication; such communication most often takes place in the context of special projects and events, with the initiative coming from school more than parents.
“We don’t want to seem too hard, like school. It has to be enjoyable. Getting together with other peers, with other like-minded souls.” (digital skills workshops organiser, Belgium)
ySKILLS is an EC-funded research network aiming to identify the actors and factors that undermine or promote the wellbeing of children aged 12–17 in a digital age. More about ySKILLS
Page updated
Report abuse