How families can use technology to juggle childcare and remote life

UW researchers are beginning a national study to help families discover technology that helps them both successfully navigate home-based learning and combat social isolation. University of Washington With thousands of schools and preschools closed and many states under "stay-at-home” orders to try to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus, families are facing a tough situation: trying to work - possibly remotely - while simultaneously being responsible for their children's education. University of Washington researchers are beginning a national study to help families discover technology that helps them both successfully navigate home-based learning and combat social isolation. "I think some parents had idealized scenarios where they said 'Oh, I'll just put my kid in front of a computer for a few hours and while I work, they'll do math and reading,'” said co-lead researcher Julie Kientz , a UW professor of human centered design and engineering. "It all sounded great, but then after one day it's like, 'Oh gosh, this is not going to work.'” One major issue, the researchers said, is that it's overwhelming trying to sort through seemingly endless technology options. "People want to help parents manage this, and one easy way is to share resources. But in reality there are almost too many options,” Kientz said.