Every teacher reading this has an opinion on this topic: Do students learn better from screens or traditional, physical paper? We know that cell phones are not appropriate for kids, but some schools are now starting to question this 1-1 technology approach that schools have been working hard to submit and obtain grants for students since the COVID-19 pandemic. I did. This question has intensified and roiled the education community since researchers published non-peer-reviewed findings on students' processing and reading skills on screens and paper.
Why Columbia University Researchers Call for a Digital Detox for Schools
Although the title is catchy and the results are tenuous, readers are encouraged to digest this research and information more slowly. As a researcher, the biggest problem I have with these results is that the sample size is incredibly small and the results were found in a laboratory rather than the comfort of a typical classroom. But as eye-catching as the study is, many consider it “groundbreaking.” Teachers may have opinions and thoughts that middle school students can read paper better than a screen, but there's no need to throw the baby out with the bathwater just yet.
But this Reddit post from a frustrated teacher suggests just that. They say:
“When COVID hit, we went 1:1. All devices were confiscated and distributed in bulk in the region. I purchased a cart and about 10 CBs with classroom and state funds. All were filmed immediately. I have spent the last three years converting my classes and documents into electronic versions of assignments. I adjusted, and the kids adjusted too. There is no going back to paper grading. An email went out today saying that devices will be confiscated and we will only have class sets for core subjects. I am a Spanish teacher. That means there is no Spanish at all. At best you can check your Chromebook cart and take it to your room, but not every day. Also, we have e-books as textbooks. There is a set of textbooks for classes that need to be reissued, but they are not enough to teach large classes. “I’m confused where to start and why I did this.” —Nose seat belt, no airbag
Challenges of digital integration
While Reddit teachers who commented were primarily concerned about ESSER funding being depleted, repairing broken or old Chromebooks being too expensive, and schools concerned about their students' note-taking skills, other schools may be experiencing the same whiplash. Schools needed teachers to digitize their curriculum and assessments as quickly as possible, but are now going paper-only?
Despite the digital learning push we have all experienced, we can still consider both sides of this coin. Nick Covington, director of the Human Restoration Project, conducted a study conducting focus groups with his students and found that although students report that their schooling is 80 to 100 percent on screens, they actually prefer only 50 percent on screens.
Practical Solutions and Strategies
We don't want you to panic. The all-or-nothing mentality (all screens, all paper, all) is rarely helpful. Here are some ideas for finding balance:
- Hybrid Learning Environment: We know that there is a sweet spot between physical copies and digital materials. Integrate both digital and paper-based resources to meet a variety of learning preferences and needs. Use interactive activities and technology on paper for in-depth reading and comprehension tasks.
- Classroom Library and Printed Materials: In addition to the Book Free Library, we maintain a collection of physical books and printed materials to encourage reading for pleasure and independent learning.
- Critically evaluate digital tools: We are already doing this, but think critically about the need for digital tools. Choose digital tools that truly enhance learning outcomes and provide added value beyond convenience or engagement.
- Professional Development: Technology is such a big part of the classroom that districts still need to provide digital support to teachers. Invest in teacher training to effectively blend digital and traditional teaching methods.
What does this mean for schools?
Looking to the future, it is clear that a balanced approach to educational technology is needed for both screen and paper discussions. Digital tools provide innovative ways to engage students, but teachers should not overlook or forget the benefits of paper-based learning in developing students' core skills. Teachers will continue to prioritize strategies that support student learning holistically. The goal is not to choose between digital and paper, but to leverage the best of both worlds to improve student performance. As we navigate the ever-changing cycle of educational trends, we must always focus on adopting strategies that best support student learning and understanding. But more importantly, are the strategies that work for our classrooms!
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