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THE USE OF COMPUTERS, SOCIAL NETWORKS AND NEW TECHNOLOGIES BY ADOLESCENTS AND YOUNG ADULTS: AN ANALYSIS FROM THEIR PERSPECTIVE

Abstract:

The last decade has been characterized by a constant and significant increase in the contribution of ICTs in various areas of life, mainly in the number of digital devices, Internet users, the increase in online learning and in the use of social networks and virtual network games. This rupture in all areas related to digital, mobile and social media led to the development of inappropriate behaviors and uses of ICTs by children, adolescents and young people. Their analysis and confrontation constitutes today a challenge for educational institutions and families. In this scenario, the present research aims to characterize the current situation of the use of new technologies in students of Basic General Education and High School in a regular education center in Ecuador. A survey was applied to 234 students, from the results of which it was possible to conclude that there are gaps in the students’ access to ICTs, which hinders the satisfactory development of online education. Although the majority of students use ICTs for academic purposes, a large group is engaged in online leisure activities. Most students are receptive to parental control, which is currently insufficient, and visual problems, poor academic performance and sedentary lifestyles were identified as the main negative consequences of inappropriate ICT use.