The growing absence of non-digital alternatives to everyday tasks, like government services and health care, is contributing to digital dependence. This, in turn, affects people’s wellbeing.
A new report from UNESCO analyzes the many challenges of the growing presence of technology in education and notes 14 per cent of countries have policies that ban mobile phones.
A study compared students’ performance in schools that had banned mobiles and schools that hadn’t. They found students who weren’t allowed to use mobile phones in class had higher test scores.
The Education Minister Dan Tehan has said research shows mobile phone bans have a positive effect on academic performance. But this is not necessarily true.
A clearer understanding of teachers’ needs is required if schools and universities are to be better prepared for a future where technology is key to teaching and learning.
The role of the school library has evolved. Today’s school library goes beyond providing books. It must include teaching children digital literacy and how to critically evaluate information online.
Kate M. Miltner, USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism
Past efforts to teach American students computer skills haven’t always helped workers get better-paying jobs. But spending on hardware and software for schools has certainly enriched tech companies.
Professor of Adolescent Health The University of Melbourne; Director, Royal Children's Hospital Centre for Adolescent Health, The University of Melbourne