Schools are using screens in a mindful way | Letters

Schools Are Using Screens Wisely, Says Local Teacher.

A teaching assistant at a local primary school has challenged the notion that schools are recklessly relying on screens. "Purposeful, mindful" use of technology is the norm in many classrooms, according to the assistant, who argues that lesson plans are carefully thought out and delivered using digital tools just as they would have been on a blackboard.

The use of screens saves time for teachers, allowing them to focus on more engaging aspects of education. Video clips, photographs, and sounds enhance children's learning experiences, while also encouraging oral contributions in the majority of lessons. This is particularly evident in schools that are part of the Voice 21 oracy programme, which aims to embed speaking and listening skills throughout the curriculum.

Hands-on activities abound in science, art, IT, history, geography, and maths classes, where children work with a variety of manipulatives. The Opal programme, meanwhile, provides children with access to outdoor play opportunities that are child-led and intrinsically motivated, promoting collaboration, problem-solving, and risk management.

Forest school, another growing program, offers a natural setting for play-based learning, allowing children to use their imagination while developing practical skills and working with tools. For this teacher, the key is valuing children as part of the school community and putting them at the heart of everything that happens there.

I gotta say, I'm loving how schools are finally getting it right when it comes to tech usage . As a parent, it's been a relief to see our little ones being balanced with screen time, but not having their whole educational experience controlled by it . The teacher's point about using screens in a "purposeful and mindful" way is so on point . I mean, who doesn't love a good video clip or interactive activity that still leaves room for oral contributions and creativity? It's all about finding that sweet spot where tech enhances learning without being the sole focus .

I'm also super stoked to see schools incorporating more hands-on activities, outdoor play, and forest school programs . It's like they're finally realizing that kids need a mix of structure and freedom to thrive . The Voice 21 oracy programme and Opal programme are definitely worth exploring – I've heard great things about them from fellow parents .

Anyway, it's refreshing to see teachers prioritizing the child's experience over just trying to keep up with technology . It's all about creating a learning environment that's engaging, inclusive, and values creativity and imagination .

I gotta disagree with this article lol I mean don't get me wrong screens can be useful but think about all the time kids spend staring at these things they're missing out on real life experiences, outdoor activities and socializing... schools should be more about balance not just tech

Wow , I think its awesome how schools are making screens work for them instead of against them! They're using tech to save time for teachers so they can do more hands-on activities with kids . That sounds like a pretty cool way to learn, especially with those outdoor play programs .

Schools are using screens in a super smart way nowadays! I'm all for it too . They're not just wasting time on screens , they're actually making learning more fun and engaging ! Video clips, sounds, and pictures are awesome ways to get kids excited about what they're learning . And the best part is, it's not just about sitting in front of a screen all day , but also using digital tools to enhance traditional lesson plans . I love that schools like this one are making sure kids have plenty of hands-on activities and outdoor playtime too ! They're not just teaching academics, they're teaching life skills too!

so I think its cool how schools are using screens in a way that actually enhances learning, you know? like they're not just mindless scrolling all day or anything . it's great to see teachers being mindful about how they use technology and making sure it's part of a bigger plan to help kids learn. and the fact that they're incorporating hands-on activities and outdoor play into the curriculum is just awesome . I mean, who needs screens when you can have a kid exploring nature or building with blocks? but seriously, its all about finding that balance between tech and human interaction, right? so schools are doing it right and setting a good example for the rest of us

Screens r not the enemy they can b a great tool 4 learning when used wisely! teachers r smart, they know how 2 balance tech w/ hands-on activities . i love hearin bout schools that focus on oral contributions & creativity . it's all about findin the right mix, not just dumpin screens in class . and hey, who doesn't luv a good outdoor session? forest school sounds like an amazing way 2 learn!

I'm so relieved to see schools are getting it right! It's not about screens vs no screens, it's about using tech in a way that supports learning, you know? I was worried we were all going to be stuck on some sort of digital highway and forget how to learn without one . But seriously, this teacher is speaking truth, it's all about finding that balance and making sure the kids are engaged and active, not just staring at a screen . And honestly, I think it's awesome they're incorporating hands-on stuff into every subject - maths, art, science... it's like they're saying, 'Hey, learning doesn't have to be boring!'

omg u wont beleev its 2025 & schools r using screens in a super clever way ! like they dont just dump kids on tablets all day like some kind of digital babysitter, noooo their lesson plans r sooo thoughtful, they use tech to save teachers time & focus on the good stuff . and its not all about screens tho, hands-on activities 4 days a week or something, so science, art, maths... kids get 2 play & learn in a more interactive way . and schools r getting creative w/ outdoor programs like forest school where kids can just be kids & explore nite n day