Dr Sumudu Mallawaarachchi’s research focuses on children’s digital technology use from a child developmental perspective, with expertise in mixed-methods research including meta-analyses, longitudinal quantitative research, acute experiments, and qualitative thematic analyses. 

As a Research Fellow, she examines associations between children’s digital technology use and engagement, design of digital environments and child developmental outcomes (with a particular focus on self-regulation). Sumudu hopes her research will inform evidence-based recommendations for families, clinicians and educators in optimising healthy technology use by young children. Her vision is for children to be able to engage with digital technology in such a way that it complements their wellbeing and development, minimising the potential risks.

Earliest digital memory
I used to think barbie.com was all there was to Internet! I would get so excited for my monthly visit to my mum’s workplace to use the internet (i.e., barbie.com).