Network publishes a report on the effects of the use of digital technology on children’s empathy and attention capacity

What are the effects of the use of digital technology on children’s empathy and attention? This question guided the most recent NESET analytical report “Effects of the use of digital technology on children’s empathy and attention capacity“. The report  is authored by Network member Ramon Flecha, Cristina Pulido, Beatriz Villarejo, Sandra Racionero, Gisela Redondo and  Elisabeth Torras.

This analytical report reveals the most relevant and up-to-date scientific contributions worldwide about the effects of the use of digital technology on children’s empathy and attention capacity. The report synthesises existing knowledge gathered from an extensive literature review that has identified evidence from scientific articles and relevant European Commission official reports on the topic of focus. 

The key findings of the in-depth literature review are divided into two main sections: 1) the effects of the use of digital technology on children’s empathy; and 2) effects of digital technology use on children’s attention capacity. Based on this analysis, the report provides useful recommendations for the diverse agents involved in children’s education, from policy makers and stakeholders to teachers and families.

The full report, executive summaries in English, French and German, and a one-pager are all available in our Library. 

Visual adapted from freepik.com