The State Government is banning "unnecessary" screen use for younger students in ten WA schools as part of a "back to basics" approach in the classroom.
The six-month pilot, to begin next year, will prohibit the use of digital devices – such as laptops and iPads – for Kindergarten to Year 2 students to look at the impact of reduced screen use on student learning and achievement.
As part of the trial, students will use digital devices only where it is required to learn specific digital technologies skills under the curriculum, and to prepare Year 2 students for NAPLAN testing.
Restrictions will not apply to classroom smartboards or interactive whiteboards, or technology that supports a student’s access to learning, such as for students with disability using assistive technology or those attending the School of Isolated and Distance Education or School of the Air.
Schools taking part in the innovative pilot will each receive $50,000 to invest in screen-free learning resources, including printed educational materials, workbooks and classroom equipment.
“As a former teacher of 27 years and a mother of three daughters, I know how crucial it is to get the balance right between technology and screen-free learning," Education Minister Sabine Winton said.
“Technology has an important role to play in modern education. That’s why we must support teachers to use it where it is clearly needed for learning, while protecting time for the real-world experiences children need.
“This pilot program will enable participating schools to trial a ‘back to basics’ approach on screen use, to support children’s learning and development, wellbeing, and their ability to connect and collaborate with others."
WA public schools with students in Kindergarten to Year 2 are encouraged to register an expression of interest to take part in the pilot program from October 12.
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