YouTube's growth in use among children 0–5 during COVID19: The Occidental European case. (August 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lozano-Blasco, Raquel; Quilez-Robres, Alberto; Delgado-Bujedo, Diego; Latorre-Martínez, Mª Pilar
• Is Part Of: Technology in society. Volume 66(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-08
• Subjects: Early years education -- Data science applications in education -- Human-computer interface -- Media in education; Technology -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; 303.483
• DOI: 10.1016/j.techsoc.2021.101648
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0160-791X

Abstract

Abstract: YouTube has become an educational and entertainment tool among Western European families, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study monitored the main channels for children aged 0–5 years by using the social media analysis (SNA) methodology from March 24, 2020 to August 24, 2020. The software used has been FanpageKarma, which allows the collection and interpretation of data. The results indicate not only a growth in the use of such channels during confinement, but also how their expansion is related to the evolution of the COVID-19, reflecting, in turn, the consequences of the government policies adopted. Social distancing generated a greater consumption of recreational content, but not a greater growth in educational content regardless of the country or culture. Highlights: Growth in the use of Youtube channels by children (0–5 years) during the Covid-19. The increase is related to government containment measures. There are no differences in the typology of videos consumed in European countries. Confinement has not led to the consumption of educational videos.