[Media Lab]
accompanies children and young people over at least four sessions to independently research on the internet and consciously use digital tools.
What is the process?
Getting to know online search engines
Kids get to know child-friendly online search engines and video platforms and use them to identify exciting topics and interests of their own.
Develop a research question
Now let's unleash our imagination! The kids visualize their own ideas using sketches and learn the mind mapping method. This helps them practice explaining thoughts clearly and understandably to derive the right search terms and questions.
Practice critical thinking
We practice one of the most important skills for safe and effective internet research: critical thinking. The kids learn what it means and how to evaluate search results with it.
Deepen and conclude research
Almost done. The kids still have time to complete their internet research in a safe learning environment. They learn how and whom to ask for help if they get stuck or find inappropriate content.
Questions & Answers
Each session lasts between 1-2 hours (depending on agreement). The ideal group size is between 5-8 kids. For the sessions, we need securely configured devices such as tablets, laptops, and computers – ideally one device per child. If necessary, we form groups of 2.
We operate on a cost-covering basis. This means the time for conducting, preparing, and following up is charged at approximately €300. If the event is not in Hamburg, travel costs will be added.
In this format, kids have a high degree of self-efficacy and opportunities to co-determine. Everyone can research their own topics, contribute individual strengths, and overcome challenges. Ultimately, individual media literacy should be strengthened.
It is important that the provided devices are already set up to be child-friendly, i.e., restricted permissions, password protection, and child protection filters. If needed, we are happy to help with the configuration. For research, we use the tools Frag-Finn for internet search and YouTube Kids for video searches.