Online Seminar on Digital Literacy and Youth Safety
On September 18th, the Mind Over Screens project hosted an inspiring Online Seminar on Digital Literacy and Youth Safety, bringing together participants, youth workers, educators, and researchers from across Europe. The event created a dynamic virtual space where knowledge, curiosity, and shared commitment to youth well-being came together in a powerful way.
The seminar opened with a warm introduction by Milena Gad, Project Coordinator at YouNet (Italy), who set the tone for a day dedicated to understanding the digital realities young people face and exploring how youth work can respond with awareness, creativity, and care.
Exploring Digital Literacy, Risks, and Youth Safety
The first session, led by Sari Tuuva-Hongisto and Kristiina Korjonen-Kuusipuro from Juvenia, XAMK (Finland), offered a deep dive into recent research on digital literacy and online risks. Their insights shed light on how young people navigate digital spaces, what challenges they encounter, and how professionals can better support them. The presentation sparked thoughtful reflections and set a strong foundation for the rest of the seminar.
What Worries Young People Today?
Next, Christa Prusskij, Executive Director of the Finnish Society on Media Education, explored the concerns young people express about the digital world. From online pressure and privacy issues to the emotional impact of constant connectivity, her session highlighted the importance of listening to youth voices and understanding their lived experiences.
Game-Based Learning as a Tool for Digital Literacy
After a short break, the seminar continued with an engaging presentation by Isabel Martinez from Erasmus Learning Academy (Italy). She introduced game-based learning as a powerful method to promote digital literacy among young people. Through examples and practical approaches, participants discovered how playful, interactive methods can make learning more accessible, meaningful, and fun.
Strengthening Digital Safety Through Youth Work
The final thematic session was led by Harutyun Tsatryan, media researcher and co-founder of INEDNET. He explored concrete ways youth workers can enhance digital safety, from fostering critical thinking to creating supportive environments where young people feel empowered to speak up about their online experiences. His contribution offered practical strategies that participants can bring back to their organisations and communities.
A Collective Moment of Learning and Exchange
The seminar concluded with a reflective discussion facilitated by Susan Eriksson (Juvenia, XAMK). Participants shared their learnings, questions, and ideas, creating a collaborative atmosphere that truly captured the spirit of Mind Over Screens. The energy in the virtual room was full of curiosity, engagement, and a shared desire to make the digital world a safer and more empowering place for young people.
As we look back on this event, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all speakers, partners, and participants who contributed their expertise, enthusiasm, and perspectives. Your presence brought the seminar to life, and your commitment continues to drive the impact of the Mind Over Screens project forward.
