Depok-Gadgets can be used as learning media for children, but on the other hand, excessive and unsupervised use can cause problems. Starting from health problems, to behavioral disorders in children. For this reason, assistance and direction are needed for children to be careful in using devices in everyday life.
The Creative Business Study Program, Vocational Education Program, Universitas Indonesia (UI), was moved to carry out community service activities in this regard, which was named “Education on Using Gadgets at the Elementary School Level”. This community service activity in collaboration with the Creative Business Student Association (CBSA) UI was carried out at the Yayasan Unwanul Khairiyyah, Depok. As many as 35 children took part in the activity to receive education about using gadgets positively.
(Photo: The atmosphere of community service activities at the Yayasan Unwanul Khairiyyah)
The Head of the Creative Business Study Program, Hadining Kusumastuti, S.Sos., M.Ak., who is also a member of the UI Vocational Community Service team, said that excessive use of gadgets, especially in elementary school-aged children, can cause psychological disorders in children. such as sleep disturbances and learning functioning. “This activity aims to increase knowledge and awareness in children, especially regarding the negative impacts caused by using gadgets excessively,” said Hadining.
She further conveyed that excessive use of devices can be overcome with various alternatives, including turning off devices before going to bed, limiting the time for using devices, and socializing with other people. Therefore, there is a need for joint collaboration between schools and teachers in providing this education.
It is because the role of the teacher as a liaison is also very important. Socialization is needed to build awareness of the benefits and potential risks of using technology among elementary school-age children.
(Photo: Children at the Yayasan Unwanul Khairiyyah actively participate in the community service activities)
Deputy Chair of the Yayasan Unwanul Khairiyyah, H. Syahrudin, M.Pd., expressed his gratitude for the community service activities organized by UI Vocational. He hopes that this activity can provide many benefits to children so that they are smarter in using gadgets.
“Hopefully UI Vocational can come back to visit us for other useful activities. I also thank the lecturers and students who were involved in the community service activities,” said Syahrudin. Members of the Community Service Program for Creative Business who took part in the activity which was held on July 21, 2023 were Risca Fleureta Hudiyono, S.E., M.S.M., DKS Nugraha, M.B.A., M.Si., Dr. Fia Fridayanti Adam, M.Si., and Hasyim Asy’ari, M.Psi.T.
