Abu Dhabi‘s private schools are leading the way in reshaping remote learning methods by implementing a maximum screen time limit for kindergarten and the first cycle. This initiative is part of a new remote learning policy issued by the Department of Education and Knowledge, reflecting the schools’ commitment to enhancing students’ mental health and improving the learning experience outside of screens. The plan aims to balance digital education with non-screen-related activities to mitigate the effects of remote learning on students’ mental and physical health.
New Remote Learning Plan
Private schools in Abu Dhabi have launched the remote learning plan for the upcoming period in accordance with the Department of Education and Knowledge’s policy. The first 15 minutes are dedicated to checking on students’ mental health, and an hour and a half at the end of the school day is allocated for a one-on-one program. The maximum screen time has been set at 10 minutes for kindergarten, 15 minutes for the first cycle, 30 minutes for the second cycle, and 35 minutes for the third cycle.
Curriculum Details
The curriculum plan, which was emailed to parents, specifies that the time between 7:45 and 8:00 AM is designated for attendance and student well-being checks. Official classes are held from 8:00 AM to 12:50 PM, coordinating education between direct and indirect activities with teacher presence on the learning platform. This system is designed to reduce continuous screen exposure while maintaining educational quality.
Kindergarten Lesson Structure
For kindergarten students, the maximum screen time is set at 10 minutes. The lesson structure includes 5 minutes for direct instruction, 30 minutes for screen-free activities with teacher supervision online, and 5 minutes for review. Consequently, teachers must prepare all resources in advance to focus activities on hands-on and recreational learning.
First Cycle Lesson Structure
For first cycle students in grades one to five, the maximum screen time is set at 15 minutes per lesson. The practical lesson structure is divided into 10 minutes for explanation, 25 minutes for screen-free activities with online teacher supervision, and 5 minutes for review. Additionally, teachers are required to prepare all educational materials in advance to ensure the execution of beneficial screen-free activities.
Through these measures, Abu Dhabi’s private schools emphasize the importance of mental health and balanced learning in the era of remote education.