Screen time in schools has become an emerging topic of conversation and we understand why. The rise in screen time at home — and now, with classroom technology use — prompts a greater conversation around how much consumption is simply too much.
As national school policies push to reduce student screen time, one thing must be considered: Not all screen time is the same. Many believe screen time is a quantity issue, but it’s not. It’s all about quality.
Here, we’ll explore:
- What makes screen time an issue?
- Active vs passive screen time
- What the research (and classrooms) show
- What this means for schools today
When is screen time an issue?
Unsurprisingly, statistics show that excessive screen time contributes to lowered academic performance. More than four hours of daily passive TV or computer consumption correlates to decreased resilience, social functioning, and learning outcomes.
From this data, it makes sense why screen time policies in schools consider limiting minutes, but the more effective solution is to create more intention behind them. The three main factors that turn screen time into a flashpoint are:
- Screen fatigue
- Chronic distractions
- Overexposure
Too much of a good thing is no longer good and we agree. But screen time isn’t the issue — passive consumption is. Here is the critical distinction that’s missing in today’s student screen time considerations.
Active vs passive screen time
Different from passive learning methods like listening to lectures or skimming textbooks, active learning promotes engaging instruction via activities, discussions, and interactive video assignments.
Not only is active learning simply more interesting (for both educators and learners), it’s an avenue through which classroom technology use proves to be effective. So, what might these learning methods look like in everyday classrooms?
Active learning examples
- Creating a video presentation
- Explaining a complex topic with a video podcast
- Presenting an interactive simulation
- Assigning collaborative video research projects
- Using adaptive pathways
- Gamified learning like puzzles, scavenger hunts, or quizzes
- Interactive assignments with engagement tools like multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank, and web embeds
Passive learning examples
- Clicking through slides
- Highlighting textbook material
- Watching standard videos or lectures
- Observing demonstrations
- Skipping through content modules
The truth is: Passive learning caps growth, whereas active learning does the opposite. But beyond delivering more interesting instruction, what does the research actually say about active learning?
What the research (and classrooms) show
Simply, studies show that students retain more when producing than when consuming. This seems intuitive, but schools today fear overdoing the technology. In reality, integrating an interactive video learning platform that proves success with data is one of the most strategic things educators can do.
Here are the top three reasons to implement active learning strategies in classrooms:
- Increased learner engagement
- Heightened content retention
- Enhanced performance
In addition to the numbers, today’s learners prepare for their futures by developing life skills that go beyond the classroom. This involves:
- Critical thinking
- Problem-solving abilities
- Collaboration strategies
- Empowerment
- Creativity
- Communication
- And more
If screen time policies in schools push for reduction, the risk becomes also limiting digital learning effectiveness.
What this means for schools today
Educational screen time matters. The type and quality of learner engagement matters. Student content creation matters. Policies for screen time in schools should be advocating for better classroom technology use — not just less of it.
Whether for K-12 or higher ed, interactive video is a necessary component to scaling outcomes and optimizing all kinds of learning styles and environments. Learn more about how WeVideo supports classrooms to use effective video engagement strategies in today’s educational landscape.