Understanding the Extent of and Factors Involved in the Use of YouTube as an Informal Learning Tool by 11- to 13-Year-Old Children

摘要

Web 2.0 technology has changed the way and setting where learning takes place. This study has attempted to contribute to the understanding of how children, aged 11 to 13 can use YouTube as an informal learning tool. This was accomplished by conducting four focused groups consisting of children aged 11 to 13. Thematic content analysis was used to analyse the interview data. The data has revealed that children use YouTube as home and at school (limited). They had multiple methods of access, although was constrained by parental control and limited by restricted data. The children further experienced two types of informal learning, self-directed and incidental. Interestingly, they did distinguish between appropriate and inappropriate content. Cognitively, they displayed low levels of self-regulation but were extremely self-efficient. Children had high expectations that there is entertainment on YouTube, and that resulted in them constantly using YouTube to entertain themselves. Finally, through observational learning, the children not only learnt how to use YouTube but they also acquired different skills from watching YouTube videos. These findings enhance the current understanding of the role YouTube can play in learning.