Influence of digital technologies of distance education on the mental health of a child in the conditions of wartime realities

Abstract

Russian aggression against Ukraine has caused considerable damage not only to the Ukrainian economy and infrastructure but also to the mental health of the nation. The highest risk group includes schoolchildren who have experienced traumatic experiences and, in some cases, physical injuries. The purpose of the article is to analyze the impact of digital technologies of distance education on the mental health of children in the conditions of military operations. Methods of analysis, synthesis, structural-functional, prognostic were used. In the results, the general problems of children's mental health formation in Ukraine were determined, peculiarities of the implementation of the recommendations of the World Health Organization regarding the observance of mental health were traced, and the effects of an aggressive digital environment, which were intensified by military actions, were determined. Special attention is paid to the recommendations to teachers regarding the continued use of digital technologies and distance education in wartime conditions. In the conclusions, it was noted that military challenges impose additional obligations on teachers and parents, because in the conditions of martial law, protecting children's psyche from additional stress is extremely important. For this, a system of methodological recommendations has been developed, which will be relevant for this process.

Study of digital approach in education and psychology among selected users in Ukraine

“…Digital addiction. It has been argued that dependence on digital devices and online resources can affect the mental health and academic performance of both students and teachers (Romanova et al, 2022).…”

“…The results also mention this challenge. It is worth noting that current work emphasises that keeping patient or student data confidential in the online environment can be a challenge, especially if appropriate security standards are not followed (Romanova et al, 2022).…”

“…According to Rajab (2018), digital education is particularly relevant in war zones. This thesis is supported by many contemporary scholars who study the peculiarities of using distance or blended education in war-affected areas (Romanova et al, 2022;Maryanko & Ohrenich, 2023). Thus, digitalisation is a prerequisite for the development of the education sector in crisis conditions and situations.…”