Netflix recently released the documentary "The Social Dilemma" and a lot of people are talking about the impact of social media on our lives and those of our children. As educators we believe it's important to talk about the dangers of social media especially when we are made aware of something that has the potential to impact our students. That's why from time to time, you may receive communication from the Division about specific concerns related to online content or activity.
It's also important to recognize the positive things technology and social media bring to our lives. Social media has been a source of connection for many of us through the COVID-19 pandemic. Use of technology is an integral part of modern education and modern life. Schools and families share a responsibility to help children learn to use technology in a way that considers safety, health, and well-being (including mental health), and prepares them to balance online and offline activities in a healthy way.
Recognizing that technology and social media are here to stay, and have both positive and negative impacts on us, we've put together a Social Dilemma Challenge for students, teachers and families who are interested in learning more about their own use of technology. It's designed to help you start conversations about social media and device use while you track, prioritize, and set boundaries that make sense for your family. You don't have to watch the documentary to participate, but if you choose to it may provide you with more information about social media that will help you determine the limits you want to set. The documentary is rated PG-13 so older students may benefit from watching it with their parents.
You can use tools built into your devices like the Screen Time setting on iPhones and Digital Wellbeing on Android to track your family's screen time. Then document your progress on our Social Dilemma Challenge tracker below.
As you work though the challenge, your family can create your own social media agreement using a template like this for kids or teens.
Get started here, with some ideas for conversations to have during the challenge and have fun!
- What is your family's relationship with your devices? Has it changed during Covid-19?
- How does social media make you feel overall?
- Have you ever experienced negative mental health because of social media use?
- What is a positive experience you've had on social media? What is a negative?
- What are steps your family can take to create the most positive relationship with technology?
The Social Dilemma Tracker Printable 2.pdf