I am pro-teaching AI skills, but I am more pro-human! AI highlights the slippery slope we have let ourselves stay on – now is the time to find balance. Read on to find three practical ways to start getting some balance back (and modelling this for young people).
If we look at the impact of digital devices, research highlights concerns. Clemente-Suárez et al. (2024) explore both the benefits and drawbacks of use among children and youth. Their article offers a list of practical recommendations for parents and schools (full article with list). This post focuses on one:
“Offline Enrichment: Complement digital learning with offline activities that reinforce digital literacy skills, such as reading, writing, and engaging in creative projects” (Section 3).
In light of generative AI, I believe offline enrichment is not just helpful but essential.
Ponder this, we still do not fully understand the long-term effects of the internet, even after 30 years (Firth et al., 2019). So we have absolutely no idea what the long term impact of generative AI will be.
Yet, whether we like it or not – there is no going back. Generative AI is part of our world now and very much part of your students’ future. This opinion post argues that this leaves us with two key responsibilities:
- Teach the digital and AI skills students need
- Model and create space for meaningful, real-world interaction
But, How? Right?
How can we find this balance when curriculum and timetables are already at capacity? Realistically, nothing will be removed from the already full plate. Everything is tied to a learning outcome or institutional requirement.
A simple starting point: adults model balance
I previously wrote a post in 2022 about being controlled by our phones – and with genaAI it’s about to get a whole lot worse. Since genAI began to dominate daily life, I have intentionally made one day each weekend offline. I turn off Wi-Fi and mobile data. I am still contactable by calls and texts, but otherwise, I step away from screens. Just presence. Just real distraction-free interaction with family and friends.
In a world where reality and artificial content are becoming harder to tell apart, showing young people how to be present is more important than ever. As adults, we are currently normalising excessive screen time and overuse of device tools (GenAI tools included). We have lost, and are losing, control of the habits and effects we are passing on to our young people. Yes, we must teach emerging technology. But we must also teach what really matters, and that cannot be found in generative AI.
Three ways to help you model balance (breaking the habit!):
- Free: Turn off Wi-Fi and mobile data for set periods. Try not to “just check” anything. Requires willpower!
- Brick (iOS only): A device that lets you block selected apps and requires a physical tap to unlock them. Willpower gets a physical helping hand.
- Freedom App (Android/iOS): Blocks access to chosen apps across devices and can be scheduled in advance. Willpower gets a visual cue to keep you on track.
Reviews of Brick and Freedom App below.
Demo/review: