Invicta Vlogs
'Set Your Hands Free'
On Monday 21 May, Invicta is starting the ‘Set Your Hands Free’ campaign throughout the entire school. This is where all students are being encouraged to stop using their digital devices outside of school hours. On the Friday of this week, staff and students are being challenged not to use any technology all day! Everyone is being asked to ‘log out’ of their social media and mobile habits to see what life is like without technology. Although Digital Leaders encourage everyone to use technology responsibly, we are also aware of when it is appropriate to have some ‘downtime’.
Students have been given a sponsorship/witness form and have been asked to get five sponsors/witnesses for them to go ‘technology free’ from Monday to Friday. We all know technology is moving at a fast rate, but sometimes we need to slow down. Social media is full of great things and new learning experiences, but also full of pressure; especially for teenage girls. Everyone needs to be careful about what they are posting or watching on social media.
The idea behind the campaign is to allow students an opportunity to experience life without social media and technology for five days. As so many young people have been brought up using phones, tablets and consoles, this is a great opportunity to evaluate the real benefits of how much these products are being used. It will give us all a chance to fully understand what life was like before social media as well as providing an opportunity to interact with friends and family members face to face. I am sure many may even enjoy not having to constantly check our phones and worrying about ‘missing out’ on social media.
There are over 60 different social media platforms that are used daily. This can lead to the development of an unhealthy habit, if they are used irresponsibly. This is why the ‘Set Your Hands Free’ campaign is in place. The Invicta Digital Leaders have already presented an assembly to all year groups to help everyone understand the benefits and dangers of social media and why this week is so important.
The campaign could also have some health benefits. The harsh blue light that is emitted from our screens can lead to insomnia and eye damage. Not looking at screens non-stop throughout the day, should make it easier to get a good rest at night. It will give everyone involved an opportunity to participate in various extra-curricular activities which may otherwise not be enjoyed. This could be in or outside of school; some of us might may even discover a passion for something we may have never had the opportunity to try before!
By Gabriella and Angel, Digital Leaders
