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School's back, and so are the problems in the classroom. In an attempt to learn more about them, a person who goes online by the nickname Itwasobviouslyburke made a post on the subreddit r/AskTeachers that read, "What screams 'I have unlimited screen time' in students?" And she got plenty of replies. While nobody is denying that electronic devices can enhance learning, here are some of the red flags that educators believe suggest children should take it down a notch.
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#1
High school teacher here.
They think that they know so much more about technology and computers than adults. Really they just know more about c***py social media apps and some about web use. They have no clue how to save a file to a specific location, or use a simple spreadsheet.
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#2
"My hand hurts." Trying to write one paragraph or cut a square with scissors.
Can not think creatively. Says inappropriate things like 'skibbidi toilet' 'what the..' and 'yes daddy'
These are 2nd graders. .
WindySwede 3 months ago
I wonder how soon there will be a conspiracy theory that claim that the rich are trying to zombiefie the youth to regain control over the world? /jk? 🤷♂️🤫
We managed to get in touch with the author of the post, and the woman, who is a teacher herself, said the idea for it came from personal experience.
"I, like many people these days, am constantly in awe of how quickly technology has advanced in my lifetime," Itwasobviouslyburke told Bored Panda. "I'm 33, so as a child, I didn't have a cellphone. The most techy thing I spent my time doing was personalizing my MySpace page and chatting with friends on AIM. Nowadays it's rare to see anyone in public without some form of screen in hand. I get it, as I've found I'm pretty much addicted to 'screen time' in one form or another (much like most everyone) as well."
These advancements pose significant challenges for the young ones, and the Redditor is witnessing them firsthand. "I'm a stepmom to an amazing 11-year-old boy, who received a smartphone at nine years old. He has age-appropriate restrictions and limits with his phone and tablet, but even still, I've noticed a direct correlation between screen use and his ability to pay attention and be involved during screen-free activities. He's always been a very bright straight-A student; however, at the end of his last school year, his grades declined significantly."
"His teacher specifically mentioned things like paying attention, staying on track, being responsible for remembering things, etc., and this prompted me to reach out to other teachers for their general consensus," she added.
#3
I noticed a change in my little cousin (5 yo) when he changed day cares- suddenly he'd be GLUED to the TV, to the point he'd get upset if you cut it off- before, it was background noise that he'd look at occasionally when things got quiet.
His mom noticed the issue too, and investigated his new day care some- turns out they'd just plop the kids in front the TV and leave them be for most of the day. Thankfully, swapping him to a more responsible day care changed this new habit pretty quick... sharing bc I want people to realize how much it ACTUALLY affects young kids to not have an adult help them in regulating this stuff.
Huddo's sister 3 months ago
We had a few people in my after school care provider who got in trouble for doing this. The managers could see their computer usage and they were playing movies for the whole session time every day. They were warned about it but kept doing it, then they decided to leave the company. When I did my student teaching placement in a childcare centre, they put on a movie every day for the 3-4 year olds during rest time. If that wasn't bad enough the children who were still supposed to be sleeping during that time were all in the same room, so of course it was hard to settle them. Makes my blood boil! Those sort of places definitely need to be reported.
#4
Parroting video phrases(especially ones that are above their maturity level) and telling me they are bored within seconds of downtime. The kids don’t know what to do with themselves without an iPad.
and_a_touch_of_the_’tism 3 months ago
My little brother is always parroting stuff he doesn’t understand and sometimes accidentally says some really offensive stuff… I’m really worried about him. He’s sweet and for the most part a pretty good kid but he’s accidentally parroted some really offensive stuff (mostly sexist/homophobic).
As she kept track of the post's comment section, Itwasobviouslyburke noticed a few trends emerge in the discussion.
"The most common answer I saw was regarding students' inability to concentrate on any school activities not involving a screen," she said. "Teachers said they have a hard time even paying attention to movies (which used to be a fun treat in class), as the constant 'short-form content' most of the kids are consuming at home makes it harder for them to stay engaged in longer-form content."
"Another big one was the constant parroting of internet lingo and meme talk," she noted. "One of the more interesting things some commenters had noted was a lot of their students who seemed to have unlimited screen time also had parents who usually don't like to address problems going on at school, nor take them seriously. It’s as if the kids are now ruling the roost, so to speak."
#5
Sleeping all the time because they were up all night gaming or scrolling. (Mine aren’t old enough to work).
and_a_touch_of_the_’tism 3 months ago
I don’t like to sleep in class, but I was always so exhausted last year that I actually did a couple times. I always felt horrible about it. Yeah turns out I was depressed. That f****d up a lot of stuff for me last year.
#6
When they act like their entire life is a YouTube reaction video.
According to a recent study, which reviewed the habits of about 30,000 children aged 3 to 18 between Jan. 1, 2020, and March 5, 2022, screen time is, indeed, on the rise worldwide.
The meta-analysis revealed that since the pandemic, the average screen time among children globally has gone up by 52%, and has reached a daily mean of 246 minutes of screen time per day (4.1 h/d) across all children and adolescents.
Of course, not all of it is evil. Researchers in Australia who studied the behaviors of 4,013 children identified several categories of screen time, including social, educational, passive, and interactive.
According to their paper, the type of screen time determines whether it has a positive or negative impact.
#7
The ones that talk constantly. They watch these streamers/reaction videos/whatever in which the narrator never stops talking. They don't know how to hold a conversation, sit and listen, or even try to mentally process something before opening their mouth.
Kari Panda 3 months ago
Eh, such people have been around for much longer than the internet. I‘m pretty sure we all remember at least one school mate who never shut up.
#8
I'm a preschool teacher. I've had young children say something like "like and subscribe" at the end of interactions, because they think it's something you say when saying bye.
I've also had literal infants who know how to open apps, and know which one is YouTube- before they can walk.
Also, babies who have a strong selfie game. If you turn the camera on the tablet, they instantly stop crying and start cheesing.
MZ (she/they/he) 3 months ago (edited)
As a young kid (around the late 2000’s early 2010’s) I didn’t know how to open apps/navigate YouTube/take selfies. I only ever used my mom’s iPad when she would give me permission to and had my usage monitored via a timer. Around 2013/2014, YouTube was a popular thing in my friend group (the good YT era, not the brain rot era) and I remember let’s plays/minecraft were king back then and a lot of my friends wanted to be Minecraft YouTubers.I had a secret G+ acc that my mom didn’t know about during this time and I had unlimited access to YT because I lied abt my age on the acc. She tried to get me off YT though bc it was inappropriate for a fourth grader.
The researchers showed that educational screen time provides the most benefit, showing positive effects on children’s persistence and educational outcomes while also having no significant impact on health. Interactive screen time, which involves playing video games, showed positive educational outcomes but was associated with poorer health.
Passive screen time — perhaps one of the more favored for anyone who likes to watch TV shows — is the least healthy form of screen time.
Another longitudinal study published at the end of 2020 looked at cognitive and emotional functioning in children over time, between ages 4 and 8, measured against their daily screen time. It found excessive screen time led to emotional dysregulation and negatively affected mathematics and literacy.
#9
“I don’t like coloring/playing with toys” being bored while I read them a book or put on an educational video.
Huddo's sister 3 months ago
I have one boy who occasionally comes to my after school care. He gets anxious easily, especially when bored. Though there is more going on, I know from talking to him that he only spends his time using a tablet or computer games when at home. I offer so many different activities which he refuses, but says he is bored. I try to build a relationship with him and get to now what sorts of things he likes but he will just say no or nothing at all, then gets anxious and cries. Even other children can barely make a connection with him or get him to join their games.
#10
Middle school…some are so addicted to staring at a screen they look at you like you did horrible violence to them when you flip the laptop closed. You’ve told them to close it nicely and they just CANNOT detach from the screen, so you walk over and close it and they lose it! They acted like they were one click away from saving the world. I am not exaggerating that they are mentally deranged.
The Redditor who started this online discussion thinks schools should limit kids' access to technology.
"I don't see a purpose for a student to need their smartphone in class (unless there's a medical need, i.e. insulin levels or something)," she said. "Parents can always call the school to get ahold of their kids like we've done for decades."
She's not an abolitionist, though. "Technology in school is necessary to some degree as computer literacy is very important these days. Learning how to search for information on a specific subject, find sources to cite, navigate media literacy, etc. are all necessary these days," the teacher further explained her stance.
But "I do think it's unnecessary and harmful to give out Chromebooks to kindergartners (what a lot of teachers commented on as well) and wonder if there's a good age/middle ground to start introducing these things in classrooms. Maybe 4th grade would be a better starting point?"
#11
Screaming and punching tables every time they’re asked to do work pencil-and-paper instead of on a computer or even merely to just put a computer away. Yes, I have a student who’s really like this. And yes, they are too old for tantrums. They’re 11.
#12
Seeing innuendo in EVERYTHING at age 7. being obsessed with calling people “beta” or “sigma” also at age 7. reacting to educational ipad programs like they’re fortnite (screaming when they get a question wrong on i-ready, etc).
Luke Branwen 3 months ago
The thought of single-digit-age kids being subjected to "manosphere" bull$hit is the creepiest thing on this list.
When it comes to the question of whether schools can effectively address screen time issues if parents aren't taking action at home, Itwasobviouslyburke wishes there would be a simpler answer than the one we have now.
"It's so hard because I do appreciate being able to check on my student in real time via apps like PowerSchool, and I also like knowing he's where he's supposed to be as he shares his location with us," the Redditor explained. "Either way, if kids spend ~50% or more on screens at school, to then come home and have screen time until they eventually fall asleep is a recipe for trouble."
Also, even if the educators have good intentions on an individual level, systematic change can be hard to achieve. "I know teachers may share in their beliefs, but it seems like administration gets to call the shots in most cases and tend to appease the parents, not teachers and their wishes or observations."
"I'm a dance teacher so it's different, but I know teachers can never care more than the parents. You can spend all day trying to instill and maintain healthy habits, but if that’s not continued at home it's essentially pointless (and frustrating)!"
#13
Watch how they act when their access to computers/phones/iPads is cut off. We had a major internet outage. No signal and no Wi-Fi. The kids with decent parents groaned, pouted for a minute and found something else to do. The kids with unlimited screen time had a complete meltdown for hours. Teenagers screaming, literal tears, tantrums and complete regression to toddler behavior.
#14
When I ask the kids what they did over the weekend and all they can tell me is they played video games. All they talk about is video games. All they write about is video games. They have no interests besides video games. It infuriates me.
#15
I teach kindergarten, and I've noticed the ones who are addicted to screens get insanely territorial over any tech device, but especially touch screen ones like iPads. I literally had to put away the iPads this year and just not use them because there were kids who would scream and throw tantrums as you wrestled the iPad away from them because they just would. not. stop. playing. Nothing worked, not setting timers, not having a buddy use it with them(then they would just fight over it), not any sort of behavioral intervention-- they just wanted the iPad all to themselves and would fight tooth and nail to keep it, even going so far as to try to destroy them rather than willingly give them up. It was extreme, sad, and a pain in the a*s, so they've been locked in the iPad cart for probably 6 months now. 🤷♀️.
Huddo's sister 3 months ago
The CEO/creator of my after school program banned tech from sessions, unless permission given for specific uses. Before that we used the ipad for drawing tutorials, just dance videos on projector screen, as a calm down time for 10 minutes when needed, etc. We are now required to use the ipad for parents to sign the kids out so it is out just inside the door. It was a very difficult transition process, getting the kids to leave it alone during session time.
#16
Yesterday we had a water day at my school in the afternoon.
They had these huge inflatables but they were all wet rides like a bouncy house with water, a giant water slide, etc.
They also had lots of water related games. If I was a kid, I would have played without stopping.
Several of our students were simply not able to play. They whined about being bored and wanted to go inside even begging me to leave my station and take them inside. “Ms. Ride this is boring. Can you take us inside to your room.”
Finally they found a platform on the field and sat there on their phones for most of the 3 hours.
Not being able to engage in or enjoy non screen activities screams “I have unlimited screen time.”.
#17
I teach 5th grade. First of all, having little to no good/close friends, because they don’t ever hang out with anyone outside of school because they just want to be on a screen the whole time. Second, sleeping in class often because they were up all night on their screens…and usually when I call home about it, the parent says they have a strict “no screens after 8/9 PM” rule, but the problem is they don’t enforce it/check that it is being followed. Third, when they have a *haarrrddd* time staying off their Chromebooks. I had some kids who would literally prefer to mindlessly scroll their computers with the lid and inch open when I have blockers built in to where they can’t browse anything but the select few sites I have given permission to be on than to just shut the dang lid for 5 minutes and listen to me teach/give directions. It always took everything I had not to call them screen crackheads to their faces. Lastly, when they lack the ability to keep their mouth closed at times when even they know they should. They’re so used to YouTube and TikTok videos with people talking over one another and so used to having a reaction to every little thing. I’m thinking of one kid in particular right now and just - UGH I’m so glad it’s summer and that kid is officially not my problem anymore.
Glenn Cuneo 3 months ago
I do not hesitate to shut their computers down remotely. If they really are acting up- playing games on the chromebooks instead of completing their work I cast a fishtank to all their screens, game over. I've checked: it's against the law to use a wifi jammers in every state.
#18
So little attention and the inability to not be doing something. Like they just can’t “hang out” for a second, they need to consistently be doing something.
Heather Talma 3 months ago
Funny, I was scolded by a teacher in 2008 for "just thinking" and not visibly doing anything for all of three minutes of free time. Still now feel like I have to be visibly doing something at all times. Thanks Mrs. Marks.
Roland Nijveld 3 months ago
All of them? It's literally the majority of almost every class.
Load More Replies... #19
In early childhood I find that it's the kids who talk about weapons/violence. Usually I'll have 3-4 in a class who bring it up constantly/model all of their play around it.
#20
Those that can't make it 10-15min into a movie.
Movie day at the end of the year was such a reward when I was in school (and I actually remember a lot from watching those films in a critical way). I have so many kids that genuinely cannot sit still or stay off their phone/laptop for more than 15min.
These are seniors by the way...
#21
The ones who are bored every recess and won't touch any of the playground equiptment/gear- just complain the whole time that they're bored. Also the ones who super struggle to engage in quiet, independent activity that does not involve a screen.
#22
I have parents of kids my kids are friends with who let their kids watch hours and hours of tablet a day. I don’t understand how they think this is okay. One mom told me that her kids (kindergartner and prek) watch tablet from the time they get home (2pm) till dinner but she doesn’t allow it after that, like wtf.
She said that they cannot handle extracurricular activities and that her daughter is too tired after school to do anything.
#23
A nine year old asked me if I knew what a "pick-me" was.
It made me realize the danger of unfettered internet access + parents who don't speak English.
#26
For us, it's them asking to go to the bathroom every 2 minutes (so they can check their phones).
#27
I teach middle school. Significantly reduced attention span is a big indicator, and so is total desensitization to racism, sexism, violence, and sex. These students will try to be funny by saying the most shocking and [inappropriate] things I’ve ever heard and not even fully realize how weird and hurtful they’re being. Also, the moaning in the middle of class is a big deal.
#28
The flat affect and only talking about characters in the videos they watch - their imagination literally does not go past the “huggy wuggy did this….” And this was first grade.
#30
The absolute inability to focus on something that doesn’t interest them. They are so pumped full of dopamine all the time from their devices, when something doesn’t interest them they go in to withdrawal and shut down.
What do you think ?
James016 3 months ago
My son has just started year 5. I know the previous year 5 kids had phones and they were collected by the teacher and given back at the end of the day. The kids are not allowed to keep their phones on them. Companies need to promote the parental controls on devices more. I had to follow a 3rd party guide to properly lock down my son's iPad. The TV has a code on it as well.
The Darkest Timeline 3 months ago
Kids are being influenced by media - social media in particular - in ways unlike any generation that came before. The socialization process has been short-circuited and co-opted by corporations and random weirdos and the effect is not a good one.
azubi 3 months ago
I would have thought that it's "their", not "they're"... but then, english is a foreign language for me so I feel I have no say in that matter. May someone tell me if there have been any changes I did not yet notice?
veryvenasaur 3 months ago
I find it kind of hilarious that I'm on my computer at 10 pm as a 17-year-old with school tomorrow so I can read about how kids are addicted to screens.
Aaron Rollo 3 months ago
Well son of a b***h. It sounds like I'm doing a great job raising my kids.
WinterLady 3 months ago
I personally think that computers have no place in elementary school. These years should be devoted to learning non-computing skills like writing, basic math etc. Computers, although important in life now, should not be introduced in school until middle school, after children have learned vital non-computing life skills.
Steve Hall 3 months ago
They said this about television in the 50s, 60s and 70s, now it's just portable screens. Kids don't go outside and play with each other anymore, a parent would have to be out with them. Sadly, thay won't know what to do if and when the infrastructure fails.
KYLE 3 months ago (edited)
It's not just grade school kids though, there's one worker that's always on the move, but I have & had several late teen early 20s coworkers that have no idea how to keep themselves busy. If they're given a task list they'll do it, but after that, they just stand around and do nothing occasionally sneaking a look at their phones. One girl would literally sit at one of the computers and found a way to play scrabble or crosswords. She's only there one or twice every other week though thankfully.
dbwalker54 3 months ago
"Behaviors That Make Teachers Think They’re Students" Come on, BP--what intern is writing your headlines now?!
Hilary Gilbertson 3 months ago
Is there really any sense in telling us all about the glaring error when this was the whole point of the post?
Moosy Girl 3 months ago
Yes, we’re gonna burst if we try to keep quiet about it, it’s one of those things. ;p
Load More Replies...
James016 3 months ago
My son has just started year 5. I know the previous year 5 kids had phones and they were collected by the teacher and given back at the end of the day. The kids are not allowed to keep their phones on them. Companies need to promote the parental controls on devices more. I had to follow a 3rd party guide to properly lock down my son's iPad. The TV has a code on it as well.
The Darkest Timeline 3 months ago
Kids are being influenced by media - social media in particular - in ways unlike any generation that came before. The socialization process has been short-circuited and co-opted by corporations and random weirdos and the effect is not a good one.
azubi 3 months ago
I would have thought that it's "their", not "they're"... but then, english is a foreign language for me so I feel I have no say in that matter. May someone tell me if there have been any changes I did not yet notice?
veryvenasaur 3 months ago
I find it kind of hilarious that I'm on my computer at 10 pm as a 17-year-old with school tomorrow so I can read about how kids are addicted to screens.
Aaron Rollo 3 months ago
Well son of a b***h. It sounds like I'm doing a great job raising my kids.
WinterLady 3 months ago
I personally think that computers have no place in elementary school. These years should be devoted to learning non-computing skills like writing, basic math etc. Computers, although important in life now, should not be introduced in school until middle school, after children have learned vital non-computing life skills.
Steve Hall 3 months ago
They said this about television in the 50s, 60s and 70s, now it's just portable screens. Kids don't go outside and play with each other anymore, a parent would have to be out with them. Sadly, thay won't know what to do if and when the infrastructure fails.
KYLE 3 months ago (edited)
It's not just grade school kids though, there's one worker that's always on the move, but I have & had several late teen early 20s coworkers that have no idea how to keep themselves busy. If they're given a task list they'll do it, but after that, they just stand around and do nothing occasionally sneaking a look at their phones. One girl would literally sit at one of the computers and found a way to play scrabble or crosswords. She's only there one or twice every other week though thankfully.
dbwalker54 3 months ago
"Behaviors That Make Teachers Think They’re Students" Come on, BP--what intern is writing your headlines now?!
Hilary Gilbertson 3 months ago
Is there really any sense in telling us all about the glaring error when this was the whole point of the post?
Moosy Girl 3 months ago
Yes, we’re gonna burst if we try to keep quiet about it, it’s one of those things. ;p
Load More Replies...
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