The effects of parent-child separation on the digital literacy of children and adolescents: A bidirectional perspective study

Abstract

From a bidirectional perspective, the present cross-sectional study explored the impacts of parent-child separation on the digital literacy of children and adolescents. Drawing upon data from 1894 students (12–18 years, 49.33 % females) in Nanling county, China, we found that parent-child separation can negatively affect the digital literacy of children and adolescents, but effects differ between children experiencing parental migration or parental divorce. Parental mediation can act as a mediator in this process while children's digital feedback to parents may be considered as an auxiliary promoter. To further promote the digital literacy of children and adolescents experiencing parent-child separation, assigned tasks from adults in which children can practice knowledge and skills related to digital devices and the Internet are recommended.

Keywords

• Information literacy
• Informal learning
• Mobile learning
• 21st century abilities