ANALYSIS OF THE CHILDREN'S MOTIVATION FOR THE INTERNET USE AND THEIR ACTIVITIES IN THE ONLINE ENVIRONMENT
ANALYSIS OF THE CHILDREN'S MOTIVATION FOR THE INTERNET USE AND THEIR ACTIVITIES IN THE ONLINE ENVIRONMENT

Summary/Abstract: The aim of this research was to explore the presence of information technologies in children's homes in Serbia and children's activities in the online environment, according to their age, gender and economic status, based on the theory of uses and gratifications. The research adopted the survey technique, investigating 979 children aged from 7 to 13 in five cities in Serbia: Belgrade, Niš, Novi Sad, Šabac and Valjevo. The results of our study indicate that children's age and economic status influence their usage of the computer and of the Internet, while both gender and age determine their preferred activities. It is established that there is a digital gap between the European and Serbian children. The lower opportunity to access the Internet may negatively affect children’s academic performances. Variations in the patterns of the Internet usage between boys and girls have been narrowed, while boys still remain in higher risks to be exposed to the unsafe content and behaviour in the web space. Motivation for online activities is moderated by the children’s age. Educational consequences are discussed and suggestions provided.

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