Envisioning a Bright Digital Future for Our Children
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Chapter 1: Introduction to A.I., Robotics, and Coding
In this opening chapter of my book, I explore the relationship between children and the digital world. As a parent of three daughters—Stella, a thirteen-year-old teenager; Sofia, an inquisitive three-year-old; and baby Emily, who has just finished her first year—I constantly ponder how to nurture a positive relationship between them and technology. It's crucial to engage with them and understand their perspectives on the digital landscape.
My daughters spend considerable time using technology, which has become an extension of their daily lives. Therefore, it is imperative for me to stay attuned to their experiences to create a digital environment at home that is ethical, safe, inclusive, and fosters creativity for our entire family.
The digital realm often serves as a vital learning platform. Like many children today, my daughters have a consistent presence with screens in their lives, utilizing tablets, smartphones, and computers for both education and entertainment, tailored to their respective ages. However, the topic of social media, which I won’t delve into here, requires special attention as young teens navigate their identities during this crucial stage.
Despite the potential risks of technology, it also offers avenues for creative expression and civic engagement. It is essential to acknowledge that not all technology available to children is entirely safe. Many platforms do not guarantee a secure environment, emphasizing the need for children to be aware of the risks associated with the devices and services they use. We must communicate these concepts in a manner that is clear and age-appropriate.
With the rise of smart homes and the increasing number of Internet of Things (IoT) devices—estimated to surge from 8.4 billion in 2017 to 21 billion by 2022, according to Gartner—it's vital to prepare our children for the future. Technologies like Virtual Reality, Artificial Intelligence, and Big Data are directly influencing the digital landscape and becoming more accessible.
Preparing Our Children for Future Careers
Technological advancements are rapidly altering career landscapes. The World Economic Forum predicts that 65% of children entering primary school today will work in roles that do not yet exist. Given the growth of AI, 3D printing, and robotics, equipping children with programming and technical skills is becoming increasingly essential, as these innovations will reshape the job market.
The existing job market is evolving, necessitating a new professional profile that emphasizes continuous learning. The education system must transition from traditional career preparation to a model that equips children with the skills needed for emerging professions. Parents, too, must take an active role in ensuring their children develop the technical competencies necessary for future high-demand careers.
Today's children will confront significant challenges, including climate change and energy sustainability, and they will need the skills we cultivate in them today to tackle these issues. Moreover, they will face new ethical dilemmas, prompting a need for responsible engagement with technology.
Why Digital Literacy Matters
Technology is ingrained in every facet of our lives, and as such, our children must be supported in their digital journeys. The careers they pursue may not even exist yet, but technology will play a crucial role in all professions. Understanding how technology and algorithms function can empower children to become critical consumers of digital tools, ultimately shaping their futures.
Furthermore, a solid grasp of how technology operates will help children identify biases within these systems. Research indicates that introducing children to the principles of AI, robotics, and other technologies can enhance their problem-solving skills and critical thinking, better preparing them for future job markets.
Indirectly, fostering technological awareness can positively impact children's social development. As they become more conscious of their identities, they will learn to express their unique desires and personalities.
Jennifer Jipson, a psychology and child development professor at California State Polytechnic University, emphasizes that parents and educators have a responsibility to cultivate an awareness of how the digital knowledge children acquire will benefit their future professional lives.
Understanding A.I., Robotics, and Coding
Acquiring knowledge about AI, robotics, and programming is vital for developing our children's future skills. However, the rapid pace of technological innovation can leave parents feeling overwhelmed about setting appropriate boundaries or guiding their children in responsible technology use.
Learning about A.I. and related fields can also foster economic diversification. Proper digital literacy can enhance ethical consciousness, helping children navigate the social implications of technology and transform them from mere users into conscientious designers and developers.
To thrive in a digital landscape, children must learn to differentiate themselves from machines, understanding how these technologies work through their imagination and creativity.
The first video, "Prof Sonia Livingstone - Keynote 'Parenting for a Digital Future'," discusses the role of parents in shaping children's interactions with technology, emphasizing the importance of ethical engagement.
The second video, "Industrial design and the Uprise of AI - Interactive Discussion with Karthik Mahadevan (Envision)," explores how emerging technologies can be integrated into parenting and education, providing insights into future career paths.
Overview
This chapter offers a glimpse into my new book, now available for pre-order on Amazon. If you're a parent, caregiver, or involved in children's education, this book is a valuable resource for understanding how to prepare children for future careers through ethical and informed technology use. It covers the essentials of A.I., robotics, and coding, providing an overview of their impact on children's development and how they can be equipped for the job market of tomorrow. It will also help you navigate the ethical challenges posed by the digital age.
References
[1] Calm, Alert, and Happy. http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/childcare/Shanker.pdf