Grapevine

Aussie kids let down by streaming algorithms, research shows

Instead of channel surfing or browsing through a TV guide, Aussie kids today navigate complex streaming platforms and their algorithms to find shows, which is influencing their viewing habits, according to a new study of children aged 7 to 9.

Led by RMIT University researchers, the study involved talking to children, documenting their viewing habits and observing their daily routines.

RMIT's Dr. Jessica Balanzategui said most children tended to value algorithmic content recommendations, but they didn't understand the underlying effects, including missing out on local content.

"Across research, policy and industry, we haven't fully addressed the implications of kids' screen time now being driven by children's 'on-demand' viewing selections, which are mediated through algorithmic curation and platform interfaces," she said.