Young Chinese-Australian Children’s Use of Technology at Home: Parents’ and Grandparents’ Views

Abstract

Young children are increasingly surrounded by a variety of technologies including television, computers, iPads, and mobile phones. This small qualitative study explored how Chinese immigrant families living in Australia viewed their children’s use of technology at home. Six parents and three grandparents representing nine different families with children aged three to six years were interviewed. Data were analysed using Rogoff’s (2003) personal, interpersonal and cultural-institutional planes of analysis. We found that these children lived in technology-rich environments, however strongly held values and beliefs associated with academic learning resulted in the creation of family rules and practices that limited children’s access to, and use of, different technologies. We argue that an understanding of family values, beliefs, practices and culture will assist educators to build partnerships effectively with families, and enhance learning opportunities for young children.