1. The Byron Review was a report delivered in 2008 to the UK Department for
Children, Schools and Families. It was overseen by Dr Tanya Byron.
Focuses on the use of videogames and the internet by children and
whether/how, we should police this.
She Said:
Videogames and the internet are useful as they offer opportunities for
development
But they could be harmful as they offer inappropriate material
The report discusses the 'generational digital divide' - young people
and children are more aware and advanced with technology than the
adults/parents.
This results in parents being over protective through fear of what they
don't understand.
There should be a shared culture of responsibility - between adults, the
industry and the government to protect children from inappropriate
material.
The review proposes a 'national strategy for child internet safety'
Conclusions of the review
For videogames:
There are a number of ways that these possible ‘risks’ can be managed.
For example, many online gaming sites have people monitoring
players’ behaviour and looking out for anything suspicious.
Many also offer ‘report buttons’ to use if your opponents are being
abusive. All sites should endeavour to do this.
The different industries and the Government should work together to
help make online games safer (e.g. by having clear and easy to use
‘report buttons’).
There should bea focus on the regulation of online games.
Games with ‘12’ ratings and above cannot be sold to someone under
those ages.
Suggested information campaign – with posters in shops, so that
everyone knows to take the age ratings more seriously.
Advertising sold not target those too young to play the game