While parents are excited about the new
e-learning platform that gives students access to a range of
learning tools, they worry it will mean more screen time for their
children.
The Singapore Student Learning Space will be rolled out
to all schools from next year.
With it, students can learn at their own pace anywhere,
any time by having access to videos, games and animations that will
reinforce the learning of subjects, including English, mathematics
and even physical education.
A parent, Mrs Patricia Tan, 41, worries that her
10-year-old son may end up spending too much time on devices.
"They may end up fiddling with their devices even when
they are not using the resources," she said.
Studies bear out her concern - a recent one by
think-tank DQ Institute and Nanyang Technological University found
that 12-year-olds already spend almost 46 hours a week glued to a
screen, while nine-year-olds are spending over 24 hours a week
doing the same.
However, National University of Singapore lecturer
Kelvin Seah believes that with the portal, students may learn to
better use their screen time. "For instance, students may
consciously or unconsciously reduce their time spent on social
media, using the time instead for online learning," he said.
"So the increased time spent on the portal could well
be compensated by a reduction in time spent on other online
activities."
Students are encouraged to take regular breaks when
using their devices, said the Ministry of Education, adding that
parental guidance is also important to reinforce such desirable
practices.
It said: "Many of our students are 'digital natives'
who are adept at using smart devices, and schools seek to nurture
students to be responsible digital learners."
While the use of technology can be a double-edged
sword, it should not be avoided, said Dr Timothy Chan, director of
SIM Global Education's academic division. "We cannot blindly reject
technology simply because a child has been spending unproductive
time on it."
Dr Yuhyun Park, founder of DQ Institute, said parents
have to decide what is a healthy amount of time to spend on
devices.
"Given the ubiquitous nature of digital media and
devices, it is more important for kids to learn how to use them in
a wise way rather than being blocked from potential benefits of
online learning," she added.
Experts shared that the problem of screen addiction can
be addressed by teaching students about self-control and time
management, and leading a balanced lifestyle.
Sociologist Paulin Straughan said parents can "set
guidelines that are easy to remember and follow, and set reasonable
assignments that can be completed within fair timelines so that
kids can continue to enjoy their childhood".
"We should send clear signals to students that they do
not have to over-prepare to secure a good grade," she added.
The Singapore Student Learning
Space, a new online learning portal, will help level the playing
field as it gives all students, regardless of school, the same
access to quality learning resources.
But what about those who cannot
afford an electronic device to access the online platform?
The Ministry of Education (MOE)
told The Straits Times that those who need support can apply for
schemes for a computer and subsidised Internet subscription.
The NEU PC Plus Programme, for
instance, offers needy students a brand-new computer at an
affordable price.
Parents can also tap other grants,
such as the Opportunity Fund, to apply for subsidies to purchase
personal devices for their children.
Schools also have a range of
computing devices that students can use to access the portal during
school hours, MOE said.
For home access, students can log
in using their own personal devices.
