Remember how it used to be sending a message before the digital era? Writing a letter, putting it in the mail, and waiting days for a response. Today, communication has become a quick game of 30-second audios or 15-second videos. If the waiting time seemed endless, now patience seems to be a virtue on the verge of extinction. Social media with its instant and short-lived content, as well as accelerated audios, contribute to a frenetic pace that can be much more harmful than it seems.
This immediacy is not just a matter of convenience. Continuous exposure to screens and the constant need for quick answers are linked to an increase in anxiety, panic syndrome, and even depression, issues that are becoming increasingly common among children and adolescents.
School bans the use of cell phones on its premises
At PB School and Course, there’s no discussion, cell phones are not allowed. Throughout school hours, cell phones are strictly prohibited. It all started in 2011, in the pre-vestibular course, and today, all units, including those that also operate as schools, continue to prohibit the use of cell phones. Therefore, as soon as students enter, their devices are collected and only returned at the end of the day, with no access even during breaks.
“The decision to prohibit the use of cell phones has brought very positive results. Students show greater concentration and participation in the classroom, as well as better development of their writing and reading skills. Their interaction is different, during breaks they don’t just look at social media, they talk to each other, exchange about life and studies,” explains Valma Souza, director of PB School and Course.
Hugo de Almeida, also a director of the institution, adds: “We have seen a direct impact on the behavior and grades of the students, and this is not new, it has been a work built over the years. Many of our students stand out in highly competitive entrance exams, such as ITA and IME, and in medicine courses at the most sought-after universities. The scores in the ENEM essays are also excellent, reflecting the effectiveness of our approach.”
“Like everything in life, we have two sides, the good and the bad, but it is up to us to decide how to use it,” says Valma, who recognizes the importance of technology but also highlights the challenges it presents: “It is undeniable that technology brings numerous benefits and conveniences, but it is also necessary to acknowledge the problems that arise from excessive use. Anxiety among young people is increasing due to the immediacy of social media and the pressure for quick responses. This affects the ability to concentrate and patience, essential for academic development.”
Hugo de Almeida also draws attention to the essays. “We have seen how the lack of patience and the desire for instant gratification have negatively impacted students’ ability to write in a structured and reflective manner. For exams like the ENEM, where the essay is a very important part, it is essential to have the ability to explore complex and social issues. This skill is not something that develops from quickly reading posts on social media.”
The importance of reading and writing
For example, the ENEM essay addresses social causes and issues relevant to society, requiring deep understanding and a well-developed argumentative ability. The content of social media does not provide the necessary foundation to write substantively about these topics.
“To write a good essay, it is necessary to seek quality content and reliable sources. Reading books, whether in physical or digital format, offers a broader perspective and deeper knowledge, essential for forming well-founded arguments. You can use social media, watch podcasts, videos with more robust and quality content can help in essay writing.”
Tips to stimulate reading and writing
Valma and Hugo brought some tips for parents to help children and adolescents prepare for an academic future, even in a digital world:
- Set time limits: Define specific times for the use of electronic devices and promote offline activities during the rest of the time.
- Create reading routines: Introduce a daily schedule for reading books, magazines, or newspapers. Choose materials that interest young people.
- Promote creative writing: Encourage writing stories, diaries, or letters to friends and family, without resorting to digital means.
- Actively participate: Get involved in reading and writing activities with your children or students. Turn it into a shared and enjoyable moment.
- Offer rewards: Create a reward system for reading and writing goals achieved, encouraging motivation and enjoyment of the activity.
- Be a role model: Show the value of reading and writing in your own life. Practice these habits and demonstrate their importance.
- Adequate environment: Create a quiet and distraction-free space for young people to focus on reading and writing.
- Content discussions: Talk about what was read after reading, stimulating reflection and critical thinking.
- Use educational resources: Explore interactive educational resources that promote writing and reading in an engaging way.
- Encourage book clubs: If possible, involve young people in book clubs or writing groups to promote the exchange of ideas and experiences.
Adopting these strategies can help balance the use of technology with the development of essential skills to tackle academic and professional challenges, ensuring that the new generations are well-prepared for a better future.
Press Office: Agency A+