Abstract

Children need autonomy to face the images transmited by the new information and communication technologies. The analysis of the social mechanisms carried out to protect children of the possible damages of some video games contents, which are part of their leisure time, demonstrates the necessity of a visual education which would guarantee their access to a hll mediatic universe of learning options.

Abstract

ICT use during adolescence is now commonplace. Its power of attraction and the vulnerable condition of adolescents are giving rise to growing concern, aggravated by the imminent consequences of such synergy. In order to deepen understanding of this relationship, the following research objectives were formulated: a) Analyze the frequency of ICT use; b) Examine family supervision; c) Identify stress associated with the use of ICTs; d) Establish profiles of ICT use. The sample consisted of 1,101 adolescents of 10 educational centers in Southeastern Spain. A descriptive analysis was performed and contingency tables, Chi Square, Cramer V, hierarchical cluster analysis and one-factor ANOVA were used. The results show that more than 60% of adolescents use ICTs without supervision and that 1 out of 3 feel stressed in the absence of the Internet. In addition, statistically significant relationships were found between the frequency of ICT use and stress, as well as with family supervision. A solution of three groups or profiles of use was obtained. 45% of the subjects display maladaptive use or signs of it. The study concludes by stressing that the relationship between adolescents and ICTs is far from ideal and warns of the urgent need to train adolescents and parents in the responsible use of ICTs.

Abstract

A literature review revealed that games offer many advantages that games have for learning, developing skills, being creative, solving problems, interacting... In addition, games are a great opportunity for the library and information worlds, particularly for information literacy, that should not be missed. Their importance has been known for many years, but more recently they are being revalued with the current trend of gamification, i.e, the application of games to make various activities more enjoyable and more effective, especially training activities. The new technologies have enabled the development of video games that add much more value to gaming, such as the possibility of assessing and ranking our skills.

Abstract

This research was aimed at determining the media use by the Spanish population over 61 years, their relation with the new technologies and their opinions. We interviewed 383 Spaniards as part of the 2013 World Internet Project (WIP). The sample was segmented into two categories: young olds (from 61-70 years), and middle-old olds (71 and over). The results have been compared to the Spanish general population to detect the most relevant specifities. It can be concluded that, although the assessment they made of traditional media is above average, the Spanish senior population shows considerable interest for internet and more than 60% of them check their email daily. Their use of internet, however, is eminently pragmatic, so they tend to not use its potential as a socialization media.

Abstract

Video games are useful learning tools in different fields. This work seeks to evaluate, through a self-developed video game, their usefulness as a learning tool for the information literacy of undergraduate students. The videogame “The last exam” was developed after the analysis of 1,639 user queries registered over 2 years at the Complutense University Library, and aims to answer queries common to other university libraries. To evaluate its impact, a single-group pilot experiment was carried out with 14 undergraduate students using a pre-test/post-test validated by experts. The results show significant improvements in the students’ information skills, as well as positive evaluations of the exercise. We conclude that the incorporation of video games as a complement to the content of library training programs can be beneficial, especially as an introduction or for reinforcement or evaluation.