As digital items become more and more the norm, the amount of screen time increases for most people, which brings forward the debate regarding the amount of screen time and the effects on society.  Etchells, P., et al.’s article Screen Time Guidelines should be built on evidence, not hype addresses the conversation surrounding screen time and the evidence backing up the amount that is right or wrong (if there is such a thing).  The authors state that Socrates was concerned about students writing information down rather than relying on their memories to retain the information.  As I read this, I realized that he was apprehensive about the new norm that was approaching, much as scholars of today are voicing concerns about screen time.

The authors argue that there needs to be better evidence to support the claims behind screen time before a policy can be created, suggesting that not all screen time is bad (Etchells, 2017, para. 2).  This idea got me thinking about a screen time policy and its effectiveness in the fight regarding screen time.  Would a policy make people stop using their phones, tables, or laptops for periods in their days?  Would a policy convince kids to listen to their parents when they say to put the screen away and go outside?

My opinion in regard to screen time is similar to that of other non-essential items in life, everything in moderation.  I would like to say that I live this philosophy, but like most people, I falter with many things.  Reading this article made me think about whether what is on the screen impacts the allotted time and how that affects other activities.  I do not think it is right to paint all screen time with the it is bad brush.  Over the last six months, my screen time has increased substantially due to working on my master’s degree online; one could argue that this is good screen time.  If a policy were to come into effect, it would have to account for the different reasons behind screen time.

This article connects with my beliefs that screen time is not an adversary, but a part of a tool that should be used appropriately for the needs of the situation and the individual.

Reference

Etchells, P., et al. (January 6, 2017). Screen Time Guidelines should be built on evidence, not hype. The Guardian.