1. Digital technology has transformed how our children learn, interact and play. Though research has established that technology can support learning, such as in a 1:1 learning environment (Harper & Milman, 2016; Zheng et al, 2016), the more critical question remains how. MOE advocates a "goldilocks" approach where digital device use (including screen use) is calibrated, and educational technology is used age-appropriately and with purpose, informed by learning sciences and sound research where available.
How Do Schools Use Technology in Teaching and Learning?
2. Schools use educational technology based on the developmental profile of the students and their readiness. For example, given that young children need more tactile learning experiences, curriculum design and delivery in primary schools prioritise non-digital learning experiences such as print-based reading, writing by hand, and working with concrete manipulatives etc., interspersed with digital experiences where appropriate.
3. Teachers select appropriate educational technology to enhance learning, while ensuring that students understand, make meaning for themselves and achieve the intended learning outcomes. MOE's EdTech Pedagogical Scaffold guides teachers in the design and enactment of lessons, enabling active learning with technology. Some examples include making use of educational technology to provide real-time personalised feedback and differentiated learning pathways.
4. Students are taught the importance of maintaining a healthy balance of online and offline activities through Cyber Wellness lessons in the Character and Citizenship Education (CCE) curriculum. In addition, students also learn to recognise risks in the digital space, identify and discern negative influences and to be safe, respectful and responsible users of digital technology.
What Help Is Available for Students with Device Addiction?
5. The School Counsellors (SCs) are trained to manage addictive behaviour, equipped to identify at-risk students and render appropriate intervention and support. Key personnel in the Student Development Teams and teachers are supported with knowledge on emerging Cyber Wellness trends and issues, as well as to understand how to guide and support students, including managing excessive device use.
What Can Parents Do?
6. The partnership and involvement of parents is key to managing our students' digital device usage. Based on MOH's updated Guidance on Screen Use in Children aged 0 to 12 years old, parents should limit screen use to less than one hour a day outside of school for children aged three to six, and less than two hours a day for children aged between seven and 12 years unless related to schoolwork. Unrestricted access to devices should not be allowed.
7. At the secondary level, Personal Learning Devices (PLDs) are equipped with Device Management Application (DMA) to protect students from objectionable content and reduces learning distractions in school. The PLD is also disabled during sleep hours. Parents are given the option to monitor, safeguard and set boundaries on screen time for their children's MOE-issued PLDs after school hours. The DMA in all PLDs has been restored as of January 2025.
8. Parents who need more advice and equipping may refer to the "Parenting for Wellness" resource jointly developed by MOE, MSF and HPB. Additional resources are also available at the MOE Parent Kit Website, including two Parent Handbooks on Learning with PLDs for strategies and tips for parenting in a digital context. Parent Support Groups (PSGs) and community partners can support parents to equip them with the necessary digital knowledge and skills.
Sources:
- Launch of Grow Well SG Press Conference at Temasek Primary School | MOE
- Support Families in Building Healthy Habits in Children | MOE
- https://www.moe.gov.sg/news/parliamentary-replies/20240806-measures-to-address-and-mitigate-risks-of-social-media-addiction-among-students
- https://www.moe.gov.sg/news/forum-letter-replies/20210828-parents-will-have-greater-flexibility-in-managing-child-use-of-learning-device-at-home
- https://www.schoolbag.edu.sg/story/children-and-their-devices-how-to-strike-the-right-balance
- https://www.moe.gov.sg/news/parliamentary-replies/20231106-programmes-to-educate-parents-on-the-associated-risks-of-cyber-addiction-among-the-young
- https://www.moe.gov.sg/news/forum-letter-replies/20240416-schools-parents-can-guide-usage-of-digital-devices-by-students-with-app