Children's Experiences of Mobile and Tablet Apps

What is the purpose of this research?

The purpose of this project is to investigate 8- and 9-year-old children’s experiences, opinions, and understanding of recreational apps and games on mobile devices. We are interested in elements of apps and games that are not key parts of the games, such as advertisements or payment requests to access in-game items. This research will help us to understand whether children are able to recognise elements of apps and games that make requests of them or attempt to catch their attention, and how they feel these impact their experiences

Are you looking for people like me?

To be eligible for recruitment in this study, you child must meet the following criteria:

• Aged 8 or 9 years old at the time of participation.
• Have used mobile or tablet entertainment apps or games within the past two weeks.

What will you ask me to do?

You will be asked to complete a demographic information questionnaire before bringing your child to QUT Kelvin Grove for them to participate in a focus group with up to 3 other children of similar age. It will be requested that you remain present on campus during the focus group should your child need anything from you. During this focus group we will be asking them questions about their experiences using mobile and tablet entertainment apps. This focus group will include questions such as:

• “Thinking about your favourite app, what was something that happened while you were playing that interrupted the way you wanted to play?”
• "Why do you think the game did that?"
• “Why did/didn't you do what you said the game wanted you to do?”

During your child's participation in the focus group you will also be asked to complete a brief questionnaire regarding what discussions you've had with your child about their use of mobile and tablet apps. This session is expected to take 60 minutes.

Are there any risks for me in taking part?

There are risks of nervousness from participation to your child associated with interacting with unfamiliar adults and other children.  However, this is not expected to cause any harm as we aim to maintain a warm and friendly attitude throughout the session.

Are there any benefits for me in taking part?

It is expected that this research project will not benefit you directly. However, this research may benefit all users of apps and games by expanding our knowledge on children’s understanding and experiences of apps in digital entertainment. It may also be beneficial to caregivers in understanding the impacts of apps that children play, and how it may impact their digital behaviours.

Will I be compensated for my time?

To recognise the contribution of your child and acknowledge your time commitment for attending the session with your child, the research team offers a $30 Coles-Myer Group gift card for the parent/guardian and a small ages 6+ LEGO kit for your child upon completion of the study.

I am interested - what should I do next?

If you are interested in participating, please register your interest through the following link:  https://qsurvey.qut.edu.au/jfe/form/SV_eCHbs1lZsatq7tA

For all further enquiries, please contact Ethan Luxford at ethan.luxford@hdr.qut.edu.au