Will India Introduce Regulations Similar to Australia for Online Education? Growing Concerns Over Students’ Increased Screen Time

The increasing screen time among school children due to online education has raised significant concerns. Particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, many children are becoming more involved with social media through online learning. Several initiatives by the CBSE to address this issue appear to be ineffective.

Online Learning and Social Media Connection

School children are increasingly connecting to social media through online education. (Photo Source: Freepik)

The Government of India is working on several policies to create a safe, reliable, and accountable cyberspace. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has undertaken multiple initiatives to enhance online security and user protection. Additionally, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, along with the Ministry of Education, is seriously addressing the issue of children spending excessive time on screens.

A senior official stated that the government considers ensuring children’s safety a top priority and has already implemented various measures. The growing time children spend on mobile screens is a cause for concern. Experts believe that, considering the negative effects on children, the central government should issue guidelines for state governments and schools nationwide.

Is There a Need for Laws Like in Australia?

Recently, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court suggested that the central government consider enacting a law to regulate children’s internet use, similar to the one implemented in Australia. The court stated that until such a law is introduced, the State and National Commission for Protection of Child Rights should devise a plan to raise awareness about children’s rights and the safe use of the internet.

In Australia, a law has been introduced to prevent children under the age of 16 from having social media accounts. Career counselor Alok Bansal suggests that it is time to think about how to mitigate the negative impact of social media on children.

Children Connecting to Social Media Through Online Education

The question arises: Why are textbooks even provided when all the homework is being sent via mobile? Children often take their parents’ phones for homework, and in the process, they end up getting involved with social media. This situation is becoming more alarming and is affecting children’s health. It is argued that the government should issue strict guidelines to schools to address this issue, as the current situation encourages children to spend more time on screens.

Ineffectiveness of CBSE’s Initiatives

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has launched several initiatives after the COVID-19 pandemic to reduce the physical, mental, educational, and social effects of excessive digital activities. These initiatives include reducing screen time, ensuring safe digital education, and promoting healthy online habits among students. CBSE has also introduced a comprehensive cyber safety book, instructed schools to observe Cyber Awareness Day, and encouraged the formation of cyber clubs. However, these initiatives seem to have little impact, as most schools continue to send homework via mobile phones, which adversely affects children’s mental health.