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Darmstadt Citizens' Foundation and Steinbeis Transfer Center for Serious Games launch innovative program
The Darmstadt Citizens' Foundation , together with the Steinbeis Transfer Center for Serious Games, developed a new project to playfully promote media literacy among schoolchildren. The program is specifically aimed at lower secondary school classes in Darmstadt and is designed to raise children's awareness of the opportunities and risks of digital media at an early age.
“Media literacy is a key qualification today. Children need to learn early on how to navigate the digital world safely, thoughtfully, and responsibly. With this project, we are making an important contribution to prevention and empowering young people,” emphasizes Dr. Markus Hoschek , Chairman of the Board of the Darmstadt Citizens' Foundation.
Six modules on digital communication and media use
The project comprises a total of six units , which can be implemented either as a single project day or spread over several weeks. Five modules are aimed directly at the students. After a joint introduction involving the exploration of typical situations from everyday digital life, thematic units follow on chats and chat groups , social media , communication with strangers , and content creation .
addresses key issues in an age-appropriate and playful way, such as how to interact in chat groups, self-perception and how others perceive you on social networks, and risks like cyber grooming . The program is supplemented by a parents' evening that raises awareness among guardians about current challenges in the digital world.
The Steinbeis Transfer Center for Serious Games also sees great potential in this approach. "Playful methods enable sustainable access to complex topics such as digital communication, data protection, and online risks. The goal is to actively empower children instead of unsettling them with prohibitions," explains PD Dr.-Ing. Stefan Göbel , head of the transfer center.
Successful start at two Darmstadt schools
The pilot phase of the project has already begun: One class from the Gutenbergschule in Eberstadt and one class from the Arheilgen district school are currently participating. Feedback from these pilot classes will be incorporated into the further development of the concept.
“The topics are directly relevant to the everyday lives of our students and are presented in a way that truly resonates with them,” says Sasa Bakic , a teacher at the Gutenberg School. Following the pilot phase, the project is to be expanded. Interested schools can already contact the Darmstadt Citizens' Foundation.
Further information about the foundation's projects and activities can be found on the Darmstadt Citizens' Foundation website .
(DARMSTADT – RED/BS)
