Interlaced social worlds: exploring the use of social media in the kindergarten |
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| Authors: | Helen Knauf |
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| Institution: | 1. Department of Social Work, University of Applied Sciences, Fulda, GermanyHelen.knauf@sw.hs-fulda.de |
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| Abstract: | AbstractThe study presented in this article examines mediatization processes in an American kindergarten. The kindergarten is considered as a social world in which forms of communication, as well as the identities of those involved (children, teachers, parents), evolve through the use of digital technologies. The relationships between the different stakeholders are intensified through increased exchange. The role of children in this exchange process undergoes a particularly significant shift, since they come to be seen as active learners. Such developments are only possible if the teacher is prepared to be transparent and to invest a great deal of time. Parents warmly welcome the inclusion of such technologies in the kindergarten classroom and the contribution they make to the children’s learning and family life. Digital technologies, however, are not entirely free of exclusion mechanisms. |
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| Keywords: | Digital media mediatization family contact kindergarten |
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