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Victoria Limits Classroom Screen Time for High School Students
The government in Victoria, Australia, recently announced a new plan to limit classroom screen time for high school students. Starting in 2027, public secondary schools must restrict laptop and device use to a maximum of two hours per day. Education officials want students to spend more time using traditional pen and paper, participating in group debates, and doing science experiments. This rule follows a similar program for primary schools, which also starts next year. The government wants to create a calmer learning environment and reduce daily distractions for young people.
This new policy will change daily routines for thousands of students and teachers across the state. Some education experts welcome the change because they believe that laptops have completely taken over traditional note-taking and research. Speaking about the classroom changes, Education Minister Ben Carroll stated, "We want eyes up, screens down." While the policy includes exceptions for students with disabilities, teachers must now find new ways to manage their classrooms without digital devices. Ultimately, this plan aims to improve student focus and support mental health.
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Chat
Talk about these words from the article.
screen time / high school / limit / restrict / maximum / traditional / group debate / learning environment / distraction / policy / education expert / take over / note-taking / manage / digital device / mental health
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Discussion
1) According to the text, what are three activities that students will do instead of using screens?
2) How many hours a day do you think students should spend using computers at school?
3) What do you prefer using to take notes during a meeting or a lesson, a laptop or a notebook?
4) Do you feel that digital devices distract you from your work or your studies, and why?
5) What are some positive ways that technology helps you learn new things in your free time?
6) How do you relax and clear your mind when you feel stressed by too much screen time?
7) If your workplace or school banned personal devices for a day, how would it affect you?
8) Why does the Education Minister believe that a full reset in the classroom is important for students?
