Even though we have successfully ended the first year of implementation of the project ”Becoming Digitally Conscious” and progressed to the second year, how much do you actually know about it?
Before we get into the details, the following question must be addressed: What is BDC?
“Becoming Digitally Conscious” is a Capacity Building project targeted at the promotion of healthy digital habits among young people living in the European and Western Balkans area. The main goal is to make the youth aware of the potential dangers of making excessive use of digital devices, such as psychological disorders. Considering that virtual reality has become an essential part of young people’s lives, we believe it is important to train them on how to integrate digital devices in a healthy and conscious way.
Digitalization has affected many parts of our lives, including how we live, work, and communicate. It has become an essential component of our daily life. Nonetheless, there is no denying that digitization has brought many benefits; however, we must take measures to solve the difficulties that have arisen as a result of it and become digitally conscious. Being digitally conscious can assist us in being more mindful of our technology use and making more confident decisions about when and how we use it.
The prevalence of digital addiction among European partner countries is 4,8%, in Germany, 1,2% in Italy, and 1,1% in Cyprus. The situation does not get better in the Western Balkan region as 33% of adolescents in Albania and 30% in Bosnia are at risk of becoming internet abusers. In a study conducted in Montenegro, 36% of youngsters consulted stated checking Facebook almost every hour and 40% almost every other hour. Thus, data confirms what the European Parliament has stated that it is necessary to “Promote and educate on online and offline health behaviors in young populations”
With “Becoming Digitally Conscious,” we aim to create non-formal tools to assist youth workers in the promotion of digital competencies while also disseminating the concept of healthy internet use among the young population in a way that is truly engaging to them, thus through the involvement of their counterparts who see the problem from the same perspective.
Becoming digitally conscious is essential for navigating the complex and ever-changing world of technology. By being mindful of technology use and considering the impact of technology on society, we can make more informed decisions and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. The “BDC” project encourages people all throughout Europe to start working on themselves and break free from the chains of digitalization by developing healthy digital habits.
The “Becoming Digitally Aware” project will offer many opportunities for young people to learn, develop, and become better versions of themselves, making the story even more interesting.