PRESCHOOLERS AND VCRS IN THE HOME - A MULTIPLE METHODS APPROACH

This study examines children's use and understanding of videocassette recorders using a combination of research approaches - a general surve y of 50 preschoolers as well as observations and depth interviews with parents and children in three homes. Both the level of parental suppo rt and the level of direct access to the VCR were critical factors in understanding the child's knowledge about and competence with the tech nology. In addition, the results examine the role of parental rules an d differential parental involvement in shaping children's television v iewing and VCR use.