We’re almost into the last quarter of 2023, and a topic we have seen being covered by the media is the excessive use of screens and digital devices among our students. Screen time in schools can be a valuable educational tool when used appropriately and in moderation. Schools need to have clear policies, provide guidance on responsible use, and continually assess the impact of technology on student learning and well-being. However, striking a balance of screen time in a student’s life can be difficult. Why? Because 90% of the time, a screen sits in their pocket.
The use of screens before Covid-19 was much lower. Here are some staggering statistics from the Central Statistics Office around screentime during the pandemic.
- Student’s screen time has increased since the start of the pandemic for 96.5% of students. Before the pandemic, most students spent between 1-4 hours on a device per day (76.1%), but during the pandemic, most students spent 4+ hours on a device daily (72.5%).
- 30.3% of students experience solely adverse effects of increased screen time, while only 9.2% have positive effects.
We highly recommend reading the full report here. It gives excellent insight into screen time’s effects on students’ mental and physical health.
The Benefits of screen time in school
When incorporated into the classroom, digital screens and devices greatly benefit students, teachers and parents. Here are a few of the benefits;
Interactive Learning
Adaptive Learning
Cost savings
Real-world skills
Interactive whiteboards, for example, allow teachers to engage students in a different capacity and allow a break from the mundane reading of books.
Specialised educational software can help children with learning disabilities, whether individually, with a teaching assistant or amongst the class as a whole, to ensure inclusivity.
While an initial cost is associated with implementing digital screens, schools and parents can save money on textbooks and printed materials over time.
Students will need to decide what career they would like to pursue later in life. Most jobs will require some level of digital skills, and beginning digital learning in school will only help give a head start for the future.
With the increased time spent in front of screens in schools and increased screen time usage after the pandemic, the question of striking a balance between both remains.
Guidelines for screens during schooltime
- Limit Non-Educational Use: Restrict access to non-educational websites and apps during school hours. Implement content filtering and web monitoring tools to ensure compliance.
- Lead by example: Teachers and staff should adhere to screen time limits during school time and refrain from using their phones.
- Promote Online Safety: Teach students digital literacy skills to help them make informed decisions about technology use and navigate the online world safely and responsibly.
- Communicate with Parents: Communicate with parents about screen time regulations and involve them in monitoring their child's screen use during school hours. Educating parents about how much time students spend learning from screens so they can adjust screen time in their homes if necessary.
Guidelines for screens during homework
- Screen-Free Breaks: Incorporate short, screen-free breaks during homework sessions to rest the eyes and recharge.
- Create a Homework Workspace: Create a quiet, well-lit, comfortable workspace specifically for homework. Remove any digital distractions from this space. It should also be a phone-free zone.
- Homework Schedule: Establish a consistent homework routine with specific start and end times.
- Book vs. Online: Encourage students to look for the answer in their books before searching online. Quality over quantity always.
Internet Safety Seminars
Zeeko Education provides virtual and on-site Internet safety training to suit every school’s needs. Some of our packages also include parent seminars to ensure you are up to date with the most relevant information for your child, their class, and their age group. Our bookings are now open for the next academic year. Slots are filling up for September and October already. If you are a teacher looking to book a seminar, simply fill out the form here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does screentime in schools mean?
Screentime in schools refers to the use of digital devices such as tablets, laptops, interactive whiteboards, and computers as part of classroom learning. When used correctly and in moderation, screens can support teaching, engagement, and skill development.
Why is screentime in schools a growing concern?
Screentime in schools has increased significantly since the Covid-19 pandemic. Many students now spend over four hours a day on digital devices, both in school and at home. This has raised concerns around mental health, physical wellbeing, and maintaining a healthy balance between online and offline activities.
How did the pandemic affect student screen time?
According to national data, screen time increased for over 96% of students during the pandemic. Where most students previously spent 1–4 hours a day on devices, the majority began spending more than 4 hours daily, with many experiencing negative physical or emotional effects.
Are there benefits to screentime in schools?
Yes. Screentime in schools can support interactive learning, adaptive education, cost savings, and the development of real-world digital skills. When used purposefully, technology can enhance lessons, support inclusivity, and prepare students for future careers.
How does screen time support interactive learning?
Digital tools such as interactive whiteboards and educational software allow teachers to present information in more engaging ways. This can increase student participation and offer variety beyond traditional textbooks.
Can screentime in schools help students with additional learning needs?
Yes. Specialised educational software can support students with learning disabilities by offering personalised learning experiences, helping to ensure inclusivity within the classroom.
How can schools balance screentime during the school day?
Schools can balance screentime in schools by limiting non-educational use, using content filters, promoting digital literacy, and encouraging offline activities. Clear policies and consistent guidance help students develop healthy screen habits.
Why is it important for teachers to lead by example?
When teachers and staff model responsible screen use, students are more likely to follow suit. Limiting personal phone use during school hours reinforces the message that screens should be used purposefully and appropriately.
What role do parents play in managing screentime in schools?
Open communication between schools and parents is essential. When parents understand how screens are used during school hours, they can better manage screen time at home and support a healthy balance.
How should screentime be managed during homework?
During homework, it’s important to schedule screen-free breaks, create a distraction-free workspace, and set clear start and end times. Encouraging students to check books before searching online helps reduce unnecessary screen use.
How can schools promote online safety alongside screentime?
Teaching digital literacy and online safety skills helps students make informed decisions, understand risks, and navigate the online world responsibly as part of their everyday learning.
How can Zeeko support schools with screentime and internet safety?
Zeeko offers virtual and on-site internet safety seminars for schools, as well as parent sessions. These programmes help schools, teachers, and families better understand screentime in schools and support students’ digital wellbeing.
Explore Zeeko’s Home Page to discover our mission on the About Us Page, innovative Phone Blocking System, and engaging Phoenix Quest 10 programme. We provide Internet Safety Seminars, the Zeeko Report Card, and the Magical Leaders Choose Country initiative, alongside insights from our Digital Trend Report. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for updates.