Screen Time Survey

A recent survey of students and their use of technology revealed that six to seven hours of daily screen time is common. This also seemed to be the upper point where students were willing to share their screen time. This suggests a new social norm has been established where six to seven hours might be acceptable? Some students clocked up ten or more hours of average screen time for a week. The purpose of these random surveys has been to open the conversation and alert staff and students to the benefits and pitfalls of technology.

Surveillance capitalism is the economic driver of large-scale technology businesses. Big tech companies track the behaviour of users, apply algorithms and use results to predict and shape the behaviour of consumers. Increased screen time increases revenue opportunity for big techs so they engineer products and tailor the individual user experience to increase screen time. The well-being and productivity of the consumer are not considerations of big tech companies.

However, the use of technology is not all bad. We have a wealth of information at our fingertips, conveniently available, here and now, as images, video, text or voice. This is an amazing resource for students and staff alike, but it should be noted that mindless scrolling for hours disconnects us from relationships, study, work, exercise, sleep and other essentials for a happy and healthy life. As parents too, we must be mindful of our own engagement with technology and model responsible and appropriate use. I encourage you to have conversations with your family and friends, check each other’s screen time and reflect on what behaviours that may need adjusting for more positive outcomes.

For our students, October and November is a time to focus. Students will remain in contact with their subject content over the holidays in preparation for end-of-year assessments. It is essential that students maintain a balanced life with time dedicated to studying, friends and family, for many, employment, exercise and cultural activities. Of course, sleep and a healthy diet are all part of this big picture.

I have really enjoyed the conversations with students about their screen time and I have witnessed some massive behavioural changes and reductions in screen time. All of those who have made a significant reduction in screen time have been really positive about the benefits.

On the Passing of Queen Elizabeth

All of us will have individual reactions to the passing of Queen Elizabeth. Queen Elizabeth’s enduring service to the Commonwealth, dedication to her role and empathy are commendable. As the longest reigning British monarch, the passing of Queen Elizabeth is a significant historical event.

Mixed emotions will understandably be present in our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Due to significant historical events, the Queen and the Royal Family can be divisive figures to Indigenous Australians. Many Indigenous Australians will remember Queen Elizabeth fondly, while others will reflect on the past and look to the future with alternative perspectives.

For many Australians, their reaction to the Queen’s death has been defined by grief and mourning. Other Australians might have been slightly saddened by her death or maybe not feel sad at all. We all have different emotional reactions to different events. This is a part of being human.

For many Australians, Queen Elizabeth’s passing has raised the question, “Should we maintain ties with the British monarchy, or should we become a republic?”

Regardless of your personal perspective on the passing of any person, it is important that you respect the grief or sense of loss that others might experience. It is important also to avoid hasty and bold decisions whilst experiencing grief. Grief is a natural emotion and individuals’ differences in expressing grief or loss should be respected.

We wish our students a safe and happy break and we look forward to working together in Term 4.