Society
Understanding children’s experiences for safer digital use
The digital generation is growing up in a hyper-connected world. A world full of opportunities, but also harbouring threats to their well-being. We cannot –and should not– shield children and young people from reality, but we can protect them: first by understanding their online behaviour and the risks that are involved, and then by giving ...
Scientists under fire: threats and attacks after speaking in public
When scientists speak out publicly on Covid-19 counter-measures, they expose themselves to online and real-life attacks, threats and abuse. Some have developed very different coping strategies.
Digital education in times of lockdown – A massive real-life experiment
Worldwide lockdowns forced education to move online all of a sudden. Despite the great potential of digital education, the everyday practice proved to be unruly. While existing inequalities continued to grow, on the positive side students, teachers and parents became more confident in using digital tools.
Smart urban planning starts with interdisciplinary thinking and action
While the concept of smart cities has been around for three decades, a growing criticism has shaken the grounds of 21st century urban planning worldwide. Experts and researchers of various fields have recognized that the future of smart city planning is multidisciplinary, and the search for common grounds between technological innovation, social justice and environmental protection, made all the more vital by the Covid-19 crisis.
Digital entertainment in lockdown: the new life of culture online
During the months-long European lockdown, entertainment moved online like never before. Creativity flourished on social media platforms and, despite being locked up in their homes, people were longing for entertainment that connected them with friends and family. Meanwhile with all museums closed, European cultural heritage was given a new life online.
The growing threat of internet addiction
Excessive and problematic internet use is increasingly recognised as a potential threat to public health.
Debate on “killer robots”: the crucial role of human control
Advancement in military automation is raising concerns across the world, especially about the prospects of so-called "killer robots".