An Insight on Messenger

I was randomly watching SBS today when Insight came on and they were talking to a group of 13 year olds. They came across the topic of MSN Messanger and online chat and I felt that their opinions were quite interesting and relevant to virtual cultures.

The interview most definatley provided an insight into the minds of young computer users and why they use them.

• They said that they like computers as they are reliable and do what they want.
• They also prefer using computers to other activities such as sport because its multi-function, they can chat, send emails, chat and do their homework all at once.
• They said that they feel like different people online, and that adults should understand that MSN is an important socialising tool for children.
• They felt that with MSN it is eaisier to quarrel because it is not in someones face and you can talk freely.
• It's also eaiser for boys to talk to girls as they felt there is no real life reaction if the girl doesnt like you back.
• One young boy believes "As we grow technology grows with us, like brother and sister."

These statements not only answer questions such as why kids socialise online, but also raise questions such as 'is it healthy for kids to be doing so much socialising online?'

While it is important for children to become technologicaly aware, and parents should understand that online communication does play a role in the socialisation process, I think it is important that socialising online only augments a childs social life in the physical realm, not become their primary source of social interaction.

"Hi, my name is Mina William. I'm 13 and at school I have a reputation for being a computer whiz. I love my computer so much because it's challenging, it's dependable and, when I want to, it feels like as if I'm in a different world. Technology is important for teenagers because it helps them socialise, but some adults don't understand this, but they have to understand, it's just something natural, it's everyday life, like breathing and eating. I don't consider myself a sporty person but I do do some sports but my... ..I prefer the computer more. Teenagers prefer to be on the computer rather than playing sport because it's multifunction - you can do, like, more than one thing at once, like, check your email, talk to a friend and do your homework at the same time. "

- Mina Willams (13yr old boy)

For a transcript of the interview click here and follow the link to 'THIRTEEN'