Childhood Play in a UbiComp World

Technology: Eroding the Best Part of Childhood or Defining it?
Alexis Hiniker
DFP Classroom: FSC 2300

In the attention economy, every user’s time and attention is a valuable commodity with the potential to generate advertising revenue, and developers increasingly seek to monetize the attention of young children. Despite this problematic incentive structure, many experts herald children’s technology for its the potential to bring enjoyable and educational experiences to young people en masse. Who is right? Is technology eroding the best part of childhood or defining it? In this talk, I present findings from my recent studies on designing for children showing what designers should be building and what consumers should demand.

Event directions

Once you are inside the Forestry Science building walk to the rear (south-east) of the building by passing through the large open study area and up the stairs to the 2nd level student (“treetop”) lounge area. Turn left, pass through the double doors, and room 2300 will be immediately to your right.

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