With this project we wanted to: - Raise awareness about preventing new technological diseases caused by internet and device overuse among participants. - Identify symptoms, and therapeutic approaches, and reduce school failure due to these diseases. - Increase awareness about cyberbullying and internet data protection. - Raise awareness about risks like addiction, fraud, and pornography. - Improve critical thinking and digital literacy skills in participants. - Enhance time management skills for effective device use. - Develop an international strategy to combat technology and internet addiction. - Encourage youth to engage in alternative activities to technology overuse. - Our goal was to address health challenges arising from digital changes. Through combating and preventing these diseases, we wanted to enhance participants' knowledge and experience and remove barriers to digital progress. - We aimed to develop key qualifications, including ICT, WEB 2.0/3.0, and media literacy skills, as well as skills in social, scientific, sports, and artistic fields.
We applied for this project recognizing the need to address the widespread and harmful effects of excessive digital media usage, particularly among our students. The prevalence of technological devices, such as mobile phones, tablets, and computers, among more than 90% of our youth necessitates a proactive response. Uncontrolled usage has resulted in physical and mental health issues, negatively affecting daily life, social relationships, and academic achievements. We also applied for this project because, despite being labeled "Digital Natives," a significant number of students use technology primarily for entertainment, lacking essential skills for responsible usage. Furthermore, our students lack crucial knowledge about cyberbullying, protection of personal data online, digital media literacy, and efficient time management. Recognizing that teachers and families also lack the necessary knowledge to guide students through these challenges, our project aims to empower them through activities, seminars, workshops, and conferences. By addressing these needs, our initiative seeks to equip educators and families with the knowledge and skills to guide students effectively, fostering a healthier and more balanced relationship.