Knowledge Building Digital Awareness from a Young Age with KDDI Corporation

The first session focused on younger students who are just beginning to explore smartphones and the internet independently. Rather than lecturing, the class encouraged students to think, discuss, and reflect.

The session opened with a simple but relatable scenario: a group of friends chatting about going to the movies. A few short text messages, written without bad intentions, were misunderstood. What started as a casual conversation quickly turned into a serious conflict, and the friendship never fully recovered.

Through this example, students learned an important lesson: text messages do not carry tone, facial expressions, or emotions. Words can be interpreted differently depending on the reader’s feelings and situation. The class discussed how choosing clearer words, adding context, or even using emojis can help prevent unnecessary misunderstandings. They were encouraged to think before sending messages, use clear words, and communicate with kindness just as they would in face-to-face conversations.

The second topic addressed a growing issue among children: excessive smartphone use. Through a story-based video, students saw how constant screen time affected sleep, school performance, emotions, and friendships.

They also learned that many apps and platforms are intentionally designed to keep users engaged for as long as possible, especially videos and games with endless recommendations.

Students were guided to reflect on their own habits using simple questions, such as whether they feel restless without internet access or spend more time online than intended. This helped them recognize early signs of unhealthy usage.

The session also highlighted physical dangers, such as walking or cycling while looking at a smartphone. Real accident examples showed how easily serious injuries can occur when attention is divided. They were encouraged to follow family rules, avoid using phones near traffic, and stop in a safe place if they need to use their devices outdoors.

The final topic of Day 1 focused on online relationships. Through a powerful story, students learned how someone who appears kind and trustworthy online may not be who they claim to be in real life.

Students were reminded never to meet online strangers, avoid sharing personal information, and immediately seek help from trusted adults if they feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

The second session was designed for junior high school students, who face more complex digital challenges as their independence increases.

The session began with a case where students posted a “joke” video online without thinking about the consequences. Although the video was quickly deleted, it spread rapidly, leading to public backlash, identification of personal information, and serious real-world consequences.

Students learned how a single online post, even if intended as a joke, can spread rapidly and cause serious consequences. They were encouraged to always pause before posting and ask themselves whether the content would still be acceptable if seen by strangers, teachers, or future employers.

Another topic addressed online tipping, in-game purchases, and digital payments. Through a realistic example, students saw how small payments can escalate into serious financial problems, affecting education and family trust.

The discussion emphasized that addiction is not about weak willpower. Once it becomes severe, it can be difficult to control without help. Setting clear rules, using device features such as screen-time limits, and maintaining balance between online and offline life were strongly encouraged.

The final topic focused on meeting people online. Even long conversations, shared interests, and friendly behavior do not guarantee someone’s true identity or intentions.

People can easily hide their true identity and intentions. Students were taught to be cautious, avoid sharing personal information, and prioritize their safety by always considering worst-case scenarios.

Through these two days, students were not only informed about risks but empowered to make better choices. They learned that smartphones and the internet are valuable tools when used correctly, but harmful when they control our behavior.

At KDDI Corporation, we believe digital literacy is as important as academic education. By engaging with students early, we hope to foster a generation that uses technology thoughtfully, responsibly, and with empathy.

We will continue to support initiatives that promote safe and positive digital environments for children and young people, helping them navigate the online world with confidence and care.