Using Laptops & Devices
Mrs Prue Vaughan | Middle Leader Humanities and Innovation
I was fortunate to present advice regarding our teenagers and their use of the laptops/devices and the current concerns regarding screen time. We all know that the use of technology has evolved significantly over the last 10 years and whilst this has improved our daily tasks (shopping online, researching the next holiday), the world of social connectivity has negatively impacted our teens. This is evident in the infographic.
As teachers and as parents, navigating the world of overuse is a tricky one. We want our children to be safe and make discerning decisions about who they chat with, what they view and who knows about them; unfortunately, often than not, they are not even aware of the influences. Here at the college, all Year 7 and Year 8 students participate in an elective rotation called Digital Literacy. During this course they receive education on how to protect their digital footprint, what constitutes online bullying, how to research effectively and overall being cyber safe. This is then complimented by the SEL program run by the MLPs for the other year levels. We also have all our students sign a Digital Citizenship Agreement at the start of each year reminding them of their responsibilities when using the college issued laptop. The reminder to respect others and respect the equipment.
In terms of strategies at home, each family is different. The laptops can be regulated/monitored at school, home use age is a family decision. I am sure you have heard the advice, and it is sound – have your child use their device where they can be seen. It also helps with opening up dialogue. Other strategies is turning off the internet at set time each night. This is the best way of ensuring that they are not scrolling/gaming instead of working. However, here are some tips in terms of your student and their use of the laptop for schoolwork:
Typical student responses:
I need to work on my assignment – true, but out here in the lounge room, assignment work has allocated class time. If your student appears to be working on a task for a long period of time, ask them to stop, contact their teacher. There are a couple of reasons; firstly, they have not been using the allocated class time wisely or secondly, they are having trouble understanding what needs to be done and their classroom teacher is the best person to provide that additional support.
I need to watch this video – possibly true, but you can watch come out here in the family room, use your headphones.
I’m allowed to play online games using the school laptop – technically not true – however at home, family decision. Many games are now predominately online and do not require a downloaded program. The college can not regulate or block when at home.
The school cannot respond to social media bullying – not true and in some situations, the school has an obligation to report.
Everyone else gets to play games - if everyone else jumped of a dangerous bridge … my house my rules. This is about ensuring that you are well rested, there is a balance to be obtained.
- It’s my laptop – not true, each laptop is on a lease arrangement and not paid in full until the end of the 3rd year. In fact, technically after the 3 years, it belongs to those who paid the fees.
Parenting is a tough gig, the added complexity of the openness of the world exacerbates the worry. However, the more you chat with your child about the concerns and engage in healthy usage habits, the more equip they will be in autonomous decision making.
For further information the E Safety Commissioner website (https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents/issues-and-advice/parental-controls) is excellent. I encourage all parents to take time to review the advice.
Mrs Prue Vaughan | Middle Leader Humanities and Innovation