Another summer exploration of mine has been looking into the research on the impacts of screen time, online relationships and social media on young people.
Down the rabbit hole, I discovered the groundbreaking work of Professor Sherry Turkle, who has become something of a hero for me. Turkle is a true fighter for what’s best for our kids… and a champion for the best that’s in them too.
In Turkle’s research, she speaks to a five-day summer camp arranged for students that denied them access to all forms of technology.
After the camp, the empathy levels in these students were measurably higher than the control group of students who stayed behind – and they were sustained.
Why?
Because the students talked to each other.
If you want your students to be less selfish, more compassionate and better at regulating their behaviour… the answer might be to just take them camping. Even better, make it a camp with tents, campfires, stories, physical exertion and even a little physical discomfort.
Yep, I know there are challenges around cost, time in lieu, finding volunteers, giving up our own time and absurd OH&S hoops to jump through.
Do it anyway.
Keep fighting that good fight,
P.S. So it’s the end of Week 2, Term 1. How are we all feeling? Hopefully that holiday glow hasn’t worn off just yet!
But if you do feel like you need a bit more support in managing the students in your classroom, why not sign up to my new Student Behaviour PhD.
It will suit experienced teachers looking for new ways to manage student behaviour, as well as newer teachers hoping to build their confidence and expertise in this area.
It’s online so you can learn at your own pace, and we kick off in March.
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