As the new academic year begins, Yandex Turkey researched families in Turkey’s preparations for school and their impact on their daily lives. The research examines the challenges parents face across a range of topics, from shopping to managing their children’s homework assignments to time spent commuting.
According to the research results shared in a statement, preparations for the start of school typically begin early. 36 percent of parents begin preparations a month in advance. A significant 79 percent of participants say preparing for the new term is a tiring and time-consuming process.
52 percent of participants use search engines to find products
The research also revealed a significant shift in shopping habits, with 93 percent of participants saying they purchase some school supplies online. Of those who shop online, 75 percent prefer marketplaces, while 52 percent use search engines to find the products they need. The research also reveals that men use search engines more frequently, while women prefer marketplaces.
Despite the trend toward online shopping, 25 percent of parents still prefer physical stores. Finding the right stores in large shopping malls is crucial for these individuals; 98 percent of respondents say that detailed maps showing store layouts for each floor in shopping malls would be very helpful.
In response to this need, Yandex Maps recently launched detailed interior plans for 107 shopping malls across Turkey, including major shopping malls like the Mall of Istanbul and the Mall of Antalya. This allows shoppers to save time and easily find the stores they’re looking for.
76 percent of families use AI tools for educational purposes
According to the study, technology plays a significant role in education; 92 percent of parents or children use search engines to find additional learning materials or get help with homework. The use of AI tools is also noteworthy, with 76 percent of families using these tools for educational purposes.
Parents’ views on AI in education are largely positive. 81 percent of respondents have a positive view of these technologies. While 41 percent of this group sees AI as an excellent tool for learning, only 8 percent of respondents have a negative opinion.
Search engines are evolving to better meet educational needs. For example, Yandex Search, powered by the advanced AI assistant Yazeka, can provide information with answers supported by videos and images, provide high accuracy for quick-answer queries, and allow for contextual follow-up questions. This allows students to easily access step-by-step, detailed explanations for projects and assignments, making the learning process both more engaging and accessible.
65 percent of respondents spend more time in their cars
With the start of the new academic year, families’ daily routines are also changing. 65 percent of respondents report spending more time driving. The most common way for students to get to school is walking (46 percent), followed by the family car (36 percent), and using the school bus (34 percent). Public transportation is preferred by only 16 percent of students.
Drivers face significant challenges, particularly traffic congestion (73%) and difficulty finding parking (55%). Navigation services focus on providing accurate and up-to-the-minute information to address these issues. Yandex Maps now provides highly accurate estimated arrival times for over 90% of car trips, with an accuracy of up to five minutes. This allows parents to better plan their routes and ensure a smoother journey.
For public transportation users, the app offers comprehensive information, including more than 2,000 public transportation routes nationwide, 51,000 bus stops, and 38 ferry lines in Istanbul.
