Justyna Mielnik

A Child is an Internet’s Consumer

We live in very strange times. Dynamic changes are taking place in front of our eyes. Every day, new, innovative devices, programs and software are created. The world has sped up and people have to adapt to it in the best way possible. Being able to filter so much information is not easy for adults, and even harder for children that are just learning everything. Therefore, it is worth asking yourself whether everything that the world gives us is good, and if not, can we see it? If so, can we protect children from the negative effects of new media and modern technology and teach them to use wisely the benefits of today?
The article describes the media, their importance in the modern world and their split. Social media, which are currently considered one of the greatest achievements of mankind, as well as the Internet, where its functions, advantages, but also the dangers it brings are presented in more detailed way. Television, which plays an important role in family life, is also described in this work. The next chapter presents the results of the own research. During the interviews, the students answered questions about what electronic devices they use most often, what websites they use most often, what time they spend in front of the screen/on the Internet and if they know the dangers of using the Internet. In addition, during the study, students’ knowledge of the advantages of using the Internet was tested, why they use internet and how people using internet are controlled.
The conclusions of this study are varied.
What is the most importantly, we still don’t know exactly how to keep children protected from modern media. Among parents and teachers there is a lot of missing knowledge. It is important to educate teachers, parents but as well children about that. All this can help us to ensure that young people, as well as adults, will only the benefits from what the modern world offer them.