Tomorrow’s generation – computer dummies?
It is no longer feasible to be computer illiterate in today’s world. But for many Maori and Pacific children, this is a reality. Recently released statistics suggest that they are more likely to be watching television or playing PS2 and X-box, than using a home computer to do their homework.
A research project called Seen and Heard, conducted by the Broadcasting Standards Authority (BSA) with over 600 New Zealand children aged from 6-13 years between August and November 2007, showed that only 38% of Pacific and 53% of Maori children have computer and internet access in the home, compared to 99% of Asian and 77% of Pakeha (European) children.
“Not surprisingly, the research reveals that children are interacting with new media, like cell phones, MP3 players and the internet, in high numbers. However, there are marked inequalities in access to new media, with Pacific and Maori children, in particular, falling behind Asian and Pakeha children,” says BSA chief executive Dominic Sheehan.
The focus of the research was to find out how New Zealand children are using and responding to new media. The research also helps to explain some of the disparity in education and social outcomes, as well as raise concerns about the future of Pacific and Maori peoples in New Zealand.
Computers are involved in all aspects of our lives through education, employment, and even our social lives. Knowing what the future holds for tomorrow’s generation then means getting more children computer and internet savvy from an earlier age.
When comparing the family media environments of different ethnicities, Pacific children were less likely than any other ethnicity to have access to things like a DVD player, MP3 player or digital camera in the home.
Interestingly, while Maori and Pacific children lack access to computers and internet at home, they are more than likely to own computer game consoles. Many of these play stations and X-boxes cost as much as a computer. This brings into question the priorities of Maori and Pacific parents.
The BSA report stated that Maori children (80% compared to 66% of all children) were more likely to own a game console than any other ethnic group.
With the increasing violence being portrayed in video games, this has led to concern in the community that this can lead to kids displaying violent and anti-social behaviour.
The implications of the inequality outlined in the BSA research is far reaching, not withstanding the demand in modern society for computer literacy in the workplace. It means a future where Maori and Pacific youth will constantly struggle to keep up with their more technologically savvy peers.
