Two in five under-18s think technology should be for positive change, poll suggests

A poll of children aged nine to 18-years-old asked their opinions on technology and its purpose in society

Two in five children aged between nine and 18-years-old think technology should make ‘positive difference in people’s lives’, a new poll suggests.

The research for BT asked young people what they want to use technology for, and parents’ perceptions of the next generation’s relationship with technology.

Kate Russell, tech expert and Tech4Good Awards judge, said: “There’s a misconception around young people’s use and enthusiasm for modern technology. Kids are thinking beyond its limitations and actively using technology to solve problems in their own world or in society.”

The poll found a disparity between how the generations view young peoples’ relationship with technology – one in five adults believe their child sees technology as a means to gain celebrity.

61% of children said technology gives them power to learn new skills and 21% said they want to use technology to become entrepreneurs.

The research is part of BT’s AbilityNet Tech4Good Awards, which recognises companies, charities and individuals who use digital technology to benefit the wider community.  The young pioneer award celebrates innovation and offers £5,000 of technology to the winner to help develop their tech-for-good concept.

The research is based on a sample of 1,000 parents and 1,000 children.

For more information on Tech4Good visit their website.