Social Media and Youth Mental Health Resources for Educators

Question: Are you aware of any research or “model policy” guidance for school districts on the educational use of screen media (e.g., tablets)? I’m especially interested in: Parent/guardian rights and responsibilities (e.g., knowing how tablets are used in class; guidance for managing devices that travel between school and home). Leadership or policy recommendations on classroom technology use, including: When teachers can shift instruction fully online. How “free time” tablet use should be handled. Teachers’ responsibility for monitoring online activity. 

Answer: Educational use of technology in the classroom has been a popular topic recently and guidance around this topic is limited. A recent comprehensive review highlights a gap in evidence about which educational technology (EdTech) tools truly improve learning. Read the rest of this answer here. 

Question: How do teens use AI? How does using AI affect their mental health? 

Answer: With all the recent media coverage on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how often teens use it, we’re glad you asked this question. While AI might feel like a new technology because of the increase in interest and focus by almost everyone, it has actually been a part of our digital lives for years. Read the rest of this answer here.

Question: Many schools use big screen programs such as Go Noodle, Danny Go and DJ Rafa as “brain breaks." These are flashy and totally captivating. What do you advise about coaching teachers to use this less? 

Answer: That’s a great question - it’s important to be thoughtful about how screens are being used in the classroom setting. There is quite a bit of research around “brain breaks” (sometimes they are called active breaks or movement integration strategies) in the classroom. But first, let’s dive into what brain breaks are and what they look like. Read of the rest of this answer here.