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Need a conversation starter? Ask any student about their thoughts on cell phone policies in schools? Or, how about their thoughts on trending video games? One thing is for certain, youth in our schools (K-12) have grown tired of more traditional strategies for learning about their relationships with technology. Typically this includes a predominant emphasis on what not to do. They recognize that technology is, and will continue to be, a very real part of their lives, and they are craving learning that is supportive, proactive and practical.
Our roles as educators is to find ways to bring these ideas to life in the classroom. Not necessarily as isolated content to be covered, but rather, as concepts that spark interest and engender the desire for further learning. The art of teaching empowers us to find creative solutions to reach each learner we serve.
Curricular Connections:
Curricular Connections:
The curriculum in BC is described as "concept-based, competency-driven," so it's easy to find curricular connections for digital wellness learning. This includes subject-specific learning standards as well as core competency connections. You may not find the exact term "digital wellness" but the concepts and ideas are clear to see.
Some particular areas for consideration include:
Some particular areas for consideration include:
Applied Design, Skills and Technology (ADST)
In grades K-5, curricular competencies based on the design thinking are expected to be integrated across other curricular areas, whereas grades 6-12 include discrete content learning (as courses or modules)
Communication, Thinking and Personal & Social Competencies all encompass aspects of digital wellness
As a concept, digital wellness can be included in any core curriculum area. It can be the topic of reading/writing, the sources used to understand perspectives, the data that is analysed and so on.
Instructional Strategies:
Instructional Strategies:
Educators can approach learning about Digital Wellness in many ways. In some cases, teachers may choose to teach discrete lessons or units; however, there are other powerful strategies to engage learners.
Inquiry Model
Trevor Mackenzie, a Victoria-based secondary school teacher and author of Dive into Inquiry and Inquiry Mindset offers a great graphic to help us consider our approach to designing student-led inquiry.
Click here to access a SD23 specific hyper-doc from a previously hosted professional learning day. This resource includes a wide variety of practical strategies and organizers
Design Thinking
The design thinking process offers a powerful framework to pursue inquiry that includes a commitment to action...moving beyond just "knowing" to "doing."
There are many resources available to support the design thinking process; however, one of the largest proponents of design thinking comes from Stanford University. See their Introduction to Design Thinking resource to learn more.
Thematic study
Digital Wellness is a relevant and timely theme for students of all ages and it can be woven across many curricular subject areas. Check out the following provocations, media pieces and reading selections for some inspiration. Digital Wellness Resources - LTD.
Conversation Starter
We have not yet come across a young person that doesn't find this topic interesting. Consider using a simple discussion prompt or video provocation to spark a lively conversation with your learners. We are sure you will find countless opportunities to bring in real-world examples that bring the idea of "current events" to life.
Resources:
Resources:
Many great resources are widely available to support this learning in classrooms. These include purpose-made lesson plans, instructional videos and other educational materials. Moreover, daily events in the news and mainstream media inevitably include easy connections to the elements of digital wellness. Please explore some ideas in the following collection and more importantly, we invite you to contribute some ideas and resources.
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