Over the past two weeks, I have seen and heard many reacting to Jonathan Haidt’s new book, “The Anxious Generation.” In this book, Dr. Haidtt argues for four points regarding teens, social media, and smartphone use. Those points are,
No smartphones before high school
No social media before 16
Phone-free schools
More independence, free play, and responsibility in the real world
Much of the feedback and response I have heard to these, what Haidt calls new norms, have been split. On the most recent episode of the “Hard Fork” podcast from the New York Times, the hosts had students email in to respond to Dr. Haidt’s position on these new norms. And the responses were fascinating.
One would think high school and college students would oppose these new norms, but that is not the case. In all of the interviews they conducted with students, they all understood the addictive nature of smartphones and social media. On the other hand, they also understood how these tools were designed to keep them hooked, but they also found value and community with them. While they did not completely disagree with Dr. Haidt, they mostly wished they had the willpower to put these tools aside and not worry about them.
Whether you agree with Dr. Haidt’s position on these new norms, we need to discuss education and balance with these tools. While we know that smartphones and social media cause great harm to our children, they can also serve as a safe, inclusive space that helps students find community.
Schools can teach balance with screens and social media in several ways:
Set limits on screen time. Schools can limit how long students are allowed to use screens during the school day. This can be done by setting limits on using school-owned devices or by asking students to turn off their personal devices during class time.
Provide students with digital detox opportunities. Schools can allow students to take breaks from screens and social media. This can be done by offering screen-free activities during the school day or encouraging students to take time off from screens and social media on the weekends.
Teach students how to use screens and social media responsibly. Schools can teach students how to use screens and social media responsibly by providing them with information about the potential risks and benefits of these technologies. This can be done through classroom lessons, assemblies, or workshops.
By following these three simple steps, school leaders can help to create a positive and productive learning environment for all students. By setting clear expectations, providing support, and modeling appropriate behavior, school leaders can help students to develop the skills they need to be successful in the digital age.
The importance of digital health & wellness cannot be overstated. In the workplace, employers increasingly seek candidates who are adept at utilizing technology efficiently and responsibly. Digital literacy has become a fundamental requirement for many jobs, and individuals who lack these skills may find themselves at a significant disadvantage. Beyond the professional realm, digital health & wellness plays a crucial role in fostering healthy and productive online communities. By promoting responsible and ethical behavior, digital citizens contribute to creating a more positive and inclusive digital environment.
Educators have a pivotal role in preparing students for digital health & wellness. Schools must provide students with opportunities to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly. This includes teaching students about the potential risks and benefits of technology, providing guidance on protecting personal information, and promoting ethical behaviors online. By equipping students with the tools they need to become responsible digital citizens, educators can empower them to thrive in the digital age.
Read more about implementing digital health & wellness with Andrew Marcinek’s latest book, Teaching Digital Kindness
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