Digital Detox
Understanding the Importance of Taking Breaks from Digital Devices
Introduction
  • Icebreaker: How much time do you spend on your devices each day?
  • Briefly discuss the pros and cons of digital device usage.
Detox: Clearing the Clutter
As a noun, detox refers to the process of removing toxins from the body. As a verb, it means to eliminate or cleanse. But detox isn't just for the body! We can also detox our minds, our homes, and even our digital lives.
Examples of things we can detox include our thoughts, our physical spaces, and our digital devices. By detoxing, we create space for clarity, focus, and rejuvenation.
Video Time!
Watch the video: "What One Author Learned from His 90-Day Digital Detox" by The Doctors
Key Vocabulary
Deep Focus
The ability to concentrate deeply on a single task for an extended period.
Attention Span
The length of time for which a person can concentrate on a task without becoming distracted.
Attention Degradation
The decline in the ability to concentrate over time.
Stolen Focus
The phenomenon where one's ability to concentrate is diminished due to external factors like digital devices.
Vocabulary Practice
Fill the gaps in these sentences with the new vocabulary terms!
  1. "His __________ was so poor that he couldn't focus on reading a book for more than a few minutes."
  1. "She found it difficult to achieve _____________ because of constant notifications from her phone."
  1. "The phenomenon of __________ explains why many people struggle to concentrate in today's digital age."
  1. "Many people experience _____________ because they are constantly distracted by their devices."
Vocabulary Practice - Answers
  1. "His attention span was so poor that he couldn't focus on reading a book for more than a few minutes."
  1. "She found it difficult to achieve deep focus because of constant notifications from her phone."
  1. "The phenomenon of stolen focus explains why many people struggle to concentrate in today's digital age."
  1. "Many people experience attention degradation because they are constantly distracted by their devices."
Breakout Room Time
Task
In pairs, discuss the following questions using the new vocabulary terms:
Questions
  • How does your attention span affect your daily activities?
  • What strategies do you use to achieve deep focus?
  • Can you describe a situation where you experienced attention degradation?
  • Have you noticed any instances of stolen focus in your life? How do you handle them?
Let's share!
Each pair shares their discussion points with the class.
Individual Reflection and Discussion
  • Reflect on your current digital habits and discuss your personal goals for reducing screen time.
  • Consider when and why you use digital devices the most, how you feel after prolonged screen time, and specific actions you can take to reduce usage.
Tips for Reducing Screen Time
Set specific times
Set specific times for checking emails and social media.
Create screen-free zones
Create screen-free zones in your home.
Engage in hobbies
Engage in hobbies that don't involve screens.
Spend time outdoors
Boost your well-being and recharge your energy by spending time in nature.
Practice mindfulness
Practice mindfulness and meditation.
Read physical books
Immerse yourself in the world of physical books and magazines.
Schedule regular breaks
Schedule regular breaks from screens throughout the day.
Closing thoughts and challenge!
In summary, the key points of this digital detox themed lesson were to recognise the importance of taking breaks from technology, implement practical strategies to reduce screen time, and reflect on the impact of our digital habits. As we close today, let's encourage ourselves to continue implementing the digital detox techniques we've discussed and monitor our progress over the next week. Take time to notice how you feel when you're able to step away from your devices and be more present in the moment. Remember, small steps can lead to significant improvements in your overall well-being. Let's keep this conversation going and support each other in our journey towards a healthier digital lifestyle.