With the rise of technology and digital learning in the classroom, today’s educators face new challenges to help students balance digital learning with essential elements of: 

• Movement
• Face-to-face interactions
• Healthy technology habits

Make Screen Time More Meaningful, Maintain Hands-On Learning

For years, discussions about technology in schools focused on one question: How much screen time is too much?

Today, educators understand the value of technology in learning, so they’re now asking how to make the best use of screen time. While technology enhances learning, creating a balance between educational technology and hands-on learning supports greater student engagement and classroom wellness. 

Activities such as writing by hand, reading physical books, participating in classroom activities/discussions, conducting science experiments, building & creating through STEM projects, etc., all play an important role in student development.

With the right balance of digital and analog learning, students gain the benefits of both worlds.

Movement Matters More than Ever

Research continues to show that movement supports focus, engagement, and overall wellbeing. Even brief activity breaks can help students refocus and return to learning with greater energy.

Simple ways to add more movement:

• Incorporate stretch or movement breaks between lessons
• Use collaborative learning stations
• Encourage standing during group discussion
• Introduce flexible seating and sit-to-stand desks
• Take learning activities outdoors

Creating Intentional Screen-Free Moments

Technology is most effective when it’s balanced with opportunities to disconnect.

Designating screen-free periods throughout the day allows students to recharge and engage differently with learning.

For these screen-free periods consider incorporating:

• Paper journals and notebooks
• Group discussions
• Hands-on projects
• Reading time
• Collaborative activities
• Reflection exercises

Building Healthy Technology Habits for Student Success 

As technology continues to evolve, schools have an opportunity to create learning environments that support both digital learning and wellbeing.

By encouraging movement, both planful and screen-free time, as well as healthy technology habits, educators can help students thrive in and out of the classroom.