2025 Schedule Deep Dive: The Post-Cellphone Era of Education
Keeping students engaged in the classroom has always been top of mind in the education community, and the continued rise of cellphone use and social media has introduced a new layer of complexity to this ongoing discussion. How education professionals address this issue will influence how students view their time in school, their connection with teachers and peers, and their overall relationship to learning.
A recent Pew Research Center study revealed that about two-thirds of Americans support banning cellphones in the classroom, though only a third favor extending this ban to the entire school day. Public opinion is divided, but one thing is clear: the disruptions and distractions caused by cellphones in learning environments are a growing concern, with many advocating for some level of restriction.
Yet, banning cellphones alone is not a comprehensive solution. Technology is a part of students' lives, both inside and outside of school. Even if cellphones are prohibited during class hours, students will continue to engage with other forms of technology. They are captivated by screens that promise connection and happiness, but often deliver depression, anxiety, and insecurity instead.
This paradox highlights the importance of education as a guide rather than an inhibitor. Rather than framing technology as an enemy, schools can teach students how to build healthier, more intentional relationships with it. Education can empower students to turn their screen time into opportunities for growth, learning, and real connection.
Be a part of the discussions at SXSW EDU as education professionals and students alike dive into these challenges and explore actionable solutions. Explore the following sessions that will provide clarity as we venture into this new digital age of education.
Save These Sessions to Your Schedule:
Attend Screens to Solutions: A Youth-Led Tech Revolution as young leaders advocate for a safer online world, discover ethical storytelling and consent, reshape digital habits, and inspire positive relationships with technology.
Join Pablo Herrera of Teens Media Network as he shares how guided content creation equips students with skills to traverse the online world in Revolutionizing the Future of Media & Education.
Tune in to the Podcast Teen Journalists Dig into Educational Inequities in NYC as we hear students’ perspectives on education policy and hot-button issues, including cellphone bans and AI in schools.
Join educators and media designers at Build Civics Skills with Educational Media for the Classroom as they discuss effective tools to support students to analyze multiple perspectives, enhance their critical thinking skills, and grow their civic knowledge.
Browse the schedule and start building out your favorites. Stay tuned for more sessions to be announced leading up to March.
Find Your Community at SXSW EDU 2025
Join us for SXSW EDU 2025 from March 3-6 in Austin, Texas. Register and book your hotel to ensure your seat in the groundbreaking sessions, networking opportunities, in-depth workshops, mentorship, film screenings, competitions, an expo, and more.
Stay updated on all information leading up to the event through Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok, X, and our newsletter.
Photo by Tico Mendoza.
By Nick Butler
11/22/2024
