Kawan UNDIRA, the rapid development of digital technology has brought significant changes to daily life. In this era of the Internet of Things, smart gadgets and digital devices are no longer exclusive to adults—they have become part of the daily routines of young children.

Although technology provides convenience and broad access to information, uncontrolled gadget usage can negatively impact a child's growth and development. Many parents are concerned about the increasing use of platforms like TikTok and YouTube, which often present content that is not child-friendly and even contains political elements.

Research conducted by Near East University in Turkey shows that children who are frequently exposed to gadgets and social media are more susceptible to concentration disorders, reduced social interaction, and digital entertainment addiction. Exposure to instant content also subtly shapes children’s thinking patterns and character from an early age.

Moreover, according to the personality development theory by Ivan Pavlov, as referenced in a journal on student behavior development, repeated stimuli—such as digital content—can lead to recurring responses. In the context of children, this helps explain the emergence of instant gratification habits, declining focus, reduced social interaction, and a decrease in polite behavior in everyday life. Physical risks such as poor posture, sleep disorders, and lack of physical activity are also growing concerns.

In response to this urgency, students from the Faculty of Engineering and Informatics (FTI) of Universitas Dian Nusantara (UNDIRA)—Meiliana, Ryan Ramadhan, Dimas A. Anindyojati, and Hilmah Nurfauzi—along with their supervising lecturer, Anita Ratnasari, S.Kom., M.Kom., initiated a student-led community service activity titled "Balanced Play and Learning: Educating Elementary Students on Wise Gadget Use."

The program, held at SDN Bekasi Jaya VIII, aimed to provide awareness to young students on healthy gadget use. Participants were guided to understand the importance of daily routines, recognize time limits for gadget use, and shift the function of gadgets from pure entertainment to effective learning tools.

Although there were challenges in delivering the material due to age differences and the limited comprehension level of elementary students—who typically struggle with technical concepts—the team employed engaging methods such as game sessions and group discussions. This interactive learning environment proved successful, allowing students to absorb the information easily. As a result, over 85% of the students showed improved understanding and began applying healthy gadget usage habits.

The program also involved teachers and parent representatives, collaborating to build a healthy and supportive ecosystem, especially in minimizing excessive gadget use at home.

This Mahasiswa Peduli Masyarakat (Students Care About the Community) initiative is a real and impactful contribution by students of the Informatics Engineering Program at UNDIRA. It addresses social challenges through a blend of technology and education. By equipping children with the knowledge of how to use technology wisely from an early age, plays a vital role in shaping a generation that is digitally literate, creative, and responsible.

(Sekar Ayu / Humas UNDIRA)

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Biro Humas & Sekretariat Universitas Dian Nusantara

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