The Impact of an Educational Program on Developing Digital Safety among Kindergarten Children
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Abstract
The aim of this research is to identify the effect of an educational program specifically designed to develop digital safety skills among kindergarten children, in light of the increasing use of smart devices and the Internet at early ages. The research problem stemmed from the low level of digital awareness among children, which results in risks related to personal safety, data protection, and safe interaction with online content. The researcher employed a quasi-experimental method based on a two-group design: an experimental group that received the educational program, and a control group that received no training. The research tool was a digital safety scale designed by the researcher, consisting of eight items in the form of questions suitable for the characteristics of kindergarten children, with its validity and reliability verified. The program was applied to a sample of children over a specific period of time and included interactive activities, digital stories, and educational games. Statistical analysis of the results revealed statistically significant differences between the mean scores of the two groups in favor of the experimental group, indicating the program’s effectiveness in enhancing children’s digital safety levels. The researcher recommended integrating digital safety concepts into kindergarten curricula and training teachers to implement them through engaging educational activities.
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