Leveling the Playing Field and What that Means to Kids

Joshua Topolsky has an interesting article in the Washington Post this morning. He discusses the ramifications of developers changing access to the means of distribution and how that changes the digital media landscape.  Angry Birds (Rovio Entertainment) is an example of a product created by a small company that has been able to compete with the big boys.  Angry Birds has been very successful. Last year Rovio grossed  over $106 million dollars. Every app developers dream.

What Does This Mean for Our Kids?

I am not a fan of games, really any kind, digital or not.  I certainly understand I am in the minority.  I am familiar with Angry Birds after watching my daughter play on a train ride from NYC back to VA.
Games aside, this same theory of more open access for developers is true for all kinds of media.  That includes apps, books, educational materials, artwork, animation and more.  Topolsky's point is that we have to learn to be more discriminating. For every good game/media product there are 10 that are not good. 

Media Literacy

Critical thinking and becoming an educated media consumer are lessons that can start early.  The iPad and the computer are perfect platforms for helping kids distinguish between a good use of their time and a waste of time.

As a member of Women in Film & Video (DC) we were actively involved in Media Literacy programs for kids including the Kids World Film Festival. It's an exciting process to help kids understand the power of media and how they can assume responsibility for what they consume.

In my work with WIFV I met Sandra Calvert at Georgetown University's Children's Digital Media Center.  This is a great resource for parents and educators.