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Knowledge4Policy
Knowledge for policy
Supporting policy with scientific evidence

We mobilise people and resources to create, curate, make sense of and use knowledge to inform policymaking across Europe.

  • Projects and activities | 22 Jan 2025
The Dark Side of Digital: How Higher Education Students Use Digital Platforms and Interventions to Promote a Healthy Consumption

"The Dark Side of Digital" is an ambitious European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) research initiative. This project investigates how higher education students across Europe interact with digital platforms, including social media, and explores the benefits and challenges of digital consumption. The study's findings aim to inform policies under the EU Digital Education Action Plan, addressing digital addiction, productivity, mental health, and the demand for advanced digital skills.

Behavioural insights
Person marking text on paper with smart phone in front of them
(@Firmbee.com on Unsplash)

Motivation

Digital platforms like social media, online courses, and generative AI tools have transformed education, providing unprecedented access to knowledge. However, these advancements come with challenges, such as distraction, addiction, and misinformation. By understanding these dual impacts, the project seeks to support the healthy and productive use of digital tools, ensuring students benefit from technology without adverse consequences.

Background

The project acknowledges the growing role of digital technologies in education and life. It examines both the "bright" side, such as democratised learning and skill acquisition, and the "dark" side, including addiction, mental health issues, and bias in AI tools. Prior research has highlighted the promise of platforms like ChatGPT and the risks of excessive screen time and online manipulation. This dual perspective informs the study's focus on evidence-based interventions.

Expected outputs

  1. Insights into Digital Behaviour: A comprehensive snapshot of how young adults in higher education use digital platforms, highlighting positive and negative effects on academic performance and well-being.
  2. Policy Recommendations: Guidance on integrating digital tools in education, managing risks, and fostering digital literacy.
  3. Effective Interventions: Evaluation of strategies, such as limiting screen time or leveraging peer feedback, to promote healthier digital consumption habits.

This project seeks to advance knowledge and aims to equip policymakers, educators, and students with tools to navigate the complex landscape of digital education.