Using Screens Effectively
Featured in the Curriculum Corner newsletter
By Shane Hall, Upper School Principal, First Presbyterian Day School
In this Curriculum Corner feature, Shane Hall, Upper School Principal at First Presbyterian Day School, shares practical guidance on using screens effectively in the classroom. Thoughtful technology use can strengthen instruction, support meaningful interaction, and encourage deeper learning. By setting clear expectations and creating intentional device-free moments, teachers help students stay focused, think critically, and engage more fully in the learning process.
Best Practices for classroom use:
- Establish clear screens up-screens down expectations so devices are only used when instructionally necessary.
- Increase handwritten work and use printed texts for discussion and annotations.
- Build in device-free class segments, especially for discussion and lesson openings and closings.
- Consistent, bell-to-bell use of DyKnow when devices are permitted.
Questions to consider:
- Are screens replacing teacher-student interaction or supporting it?
- How can I structure moments for students to talk before or after screen use?
- What is the learning objective, and does screen use directly support it?
- Is the screen being used for creation, collaboration, and critical thinking, or mainly for consumption?
- Would this activity be more effective on paper, discussion-based, or hands-on?
- Does the technology enhance learning—or just make it more convenient?
- Does this task promote deep thinking, or does it encourage skimming and surface-level responses?
- Are students processing information actively (annotating, discussing, applying), or passively (scrolling, watching)?
- How does screen use impact students’ attention and stamina for sustained work?
