Screen Schooled: Two Veteran Teachers Expose How Technology Overuse Is Making Our Kids Dumber

by Joe Clement

This rejection of technology for children has given rise to the popularity of Waldorf schools. These private schools are built on a century-old philosophy that touts the benefits of a hands-on education, by providing in-person social interaction and focusing on creative problem-solving. Consequently, they also reject the use of technology both in and out of school. Some schools go so far as to make the students and their parents sign contracts promising limited exposure to technology even when they’re at home. Void of computers, iPads, and other new gadgets, their classrooms are filled with energetic and engaging teachers who design creative, outside-the-box lesson plans. They have chalkboards, No. 2 pencils, and even knitting needles to teach their students. The theory behind the Waldorf philosophy is that teachers should have a great deal of autonomy in how they foster creative and socially competent students. Hands-on teaching encourages students to experience tactile rather than virtual learning. With tuition as high as $24,000 a year or more, however, they aren’t necessarily accessible for poor families.