Technology: Friend and Foe
Technology can be used to support learning in many creative and effective ways. It can, however, be a big distraction too!
I strongly suggests parents and students work together to put systems in place to manage distractions before they become a problem.
Suggestions:
Here are the rules for using technology in my classroom, which are in keeping with our school's code of conduct:
I strongly suggests parents and students work together to put systems in place to manage distractions before they become a problem.
Suggestions:
- I personally use and recommend the "Block Site" extension in Chrome to block access to distracting sites during predetermined times or all of the time: https://blocksite.co/ - This is a great tool for teens and adults alike!
- Establish expectations for screen time and help kids strike a balance: https://screentimelabs.com/how-to-transition-kids-to-school-year-screen-time-rules/
- Use settings in your and your child's iOS or Android device to restrict screen time and app use, or use a tool like "Screentime" to help kids who struggle to manage their device use independently: https://screentimelabs.com/
- For students who continue to struggle with on-screen distractions and time-management, speaking to a guidance counselor or addictions counselor might be beneficial.
Here are the rules for using technology in my classroom, which are in keeping with our school's code of conduct:
- Chromebooks/Laptops are very useful tools for education. Students are welcome to bring these to class for academic use as indicated by the teacher. Failure to use technology appropriately will result in a progressive response including loss of privileges and contact with parents. There are a limited number of Chromebooks available in my classroom for students who do not have their own. It is recommended that those who do have their own bring them regularly and keep them well charged.
- Phones should only be used for educational purposes, as indicated by the teacher. These may include documenting learning by taking photographs or recording audio or video of students' own work to build their portfolios. At all other times phones should be kept silent and out of sight. Failure to comply with this expectation will result in a progressive response: (1) phone stays on teacher's desk until the end of the period, (2) phone will be delivered to a VP and can be collected by the student at the end of the day, (3) phone will be delivered to a VP and can be collected by a parent/guardian.
- Headphones it is my experience that listening to music rarely increases a student's productivity in class, and science seems to support this observation: https://www.theguardian.com/teacher-network/2018/mar/14/sound-how-listening-music-hinders-learning-lessons-research. However, music without lyrics can help reduce the effects of surrounding distractions (peers, noise from the hall, etc.). Students are therefore asked to check for permission before listening to music during independent seatwork and are encouraged to select a playlist designed to help with focus (of which there are many on Spotify, youTube and other streaming services).