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The Gautam Buddha Nagar administration has issued directives to limit and balance screen time for students across all government-aided and private schools.

Noida School Screen Time: The district administration has issued new guidelines regarding the use of smart boards and digital screens in schools across Noida and Greater Noida. Under these guidelines, the maximum daily screen time has been capped at 30 minutes for primary class students and 60 minutes for upper primary students. This directive follows complaints from parents; the parents’ association reported that some schools were making excessive use of smart and digital boards. These screens were being used not only for displaying textbook content and visuals but also for classwork, Q&A sessions, and homework assignments.

Smart Boards Should Not Be the Sole Medium of Instruction

The district administration has stated that smart boards should primarily be used to explain complex subjects and concepts, and to display images, videos, and essential teaching materials. Their use should not be made mandatory for every subject or classroom activity. Schools have also been instructed to regularly use blackboards, greenboards, and whiteboards for writing, practice exercises, Q&A sessions, and interactive activities involving student participation.

Instructions to Follow the ‘20-20-20’ Rule

To prevent continuous screen exposure, schools have been asked to adopt the ‘20-20-20’ rule. This rule entails giving students a break after approximately 20 minutes of screen time and encouraging them to look at an object about 20 feet away for a short period. The administration has also issued directives regarding the maintenance of appropriate levels for digital board screen settings, brightness, and classroom lighting. Furthermore, schools have been advised to avoid backlight glare when the smart board is being used solely for writing purposes.

Concerns Regarding Eye Health and Well-being

Citing guidelines issued periodically by the WHO and NIMHANS, the administration noted that prolonged screen time can lead to issues such as digital eye strain, headaches, dry eyes, and early-onset myopia. Concerns have also been raised regarding the potential impact of extended screen exposure on students’ behavior, concentration, and intellectual development. Consequently, schools have been instructed to immediately inform parents if a student exhibits symptoms such as eye irritation, headaches, blurred vision, or other health-related issues.

Emphasis on Sports and Other Activities Alongside Academics

The administration has directed schools to promote activity-based learning, stretching exercises, outdoor games, and indigenous sports. Furthermore, instructions have been issued to prioritize screen-free activities such as reading and writing, storytelling, and group activities.