Transforming Classrooms into Thriving Communities: Putting Research into Practice

This workshop explores the significant impact of screen time and digital device use on students’ academic, social-emotional, and physical development. It highlights the profound effects on student behavior, mental health, and classroom engagement. Grounded in current research, the session equips educators with actionable strategies to re-establish student connection, rebuild executive functioning skills, and foster a sense of belonging. Emphasis is placed on integrating social-emotional learning (SEL) into daily instruction and creating classroom environments where all students can thrive.

• Excessive screen time leading to reduced motivation, increased anxiety, and poor academic performance.
  
  
• Challenges in student behavior, including decreased attention spans, lack of motivation, and disengagement.
  
  
• Decline in students’ social-emotional skills and a weakened sense of classroom belonging.

1. Integration of SEL and Executive Functioning Skills
   Participants will learn how to embed social-emotional learning and executive functioning supports into daily classroom routines. This includes strategies like goal-setting, self-monitoring, and teaching students to manage tasks effectively using step-by-step guidance and exemplars.
   
   
2. Creation of a Supportive Classroom Culture
   Educators will be equipped with methods to foster a sense of belonging and safety through welcoming rituals, engaging instructional strategies, and optimistic closures. These practices are designed to build community, boost participation, and re-engage students.
   
   
3. Responsive Strategies to Digital Impact
   Attendees will gain insight into the academic and psychological effects of screen overuse and discover research-based interventions to mitigate these impacts. Strategies will focus on balancing technology use, encouraging physical and social activity, and cultivating environments conducive to attention and deep learning.