The UNESCO Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report 2023 has been published.
The paper cautioned against excessive screen time’s harmful effects on children’s well-being and academic achievement.
What is UNESCO?
Full Name
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
Established
November 16, 1945
Headquarters
Paris, France
Director-General
Audrey Azoulay
Purpose
To encourage worldwide collaboration in education, research, culture, and communication in order to promote peace and security.
Functions
– promoting universal education – supporting scientific research – preserving cultural heritage – fostering free expression – promoting media development
Membership
Over 190 member states
World Heritage Sites
Over 1,100 designated sites worldwide
Languages
Official languages: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish Working languages: English, French
About Global Education Monitoring Report 2023
The GEM Report, which was established in 2002, is an editorially independent report maintained and published by UNESCO.
At the 2015 World Education Forum, it was mandated by 160 states to monitor and report on progress towards SDG 4.0 education.
The study examines and assesses important educational topics and challenges around the world.
It also provides evidence-based insights and policy recommendations for bettering educational systems and outcomes.
Concerns expressed in the report
The Ills of Digital Learning: The research emphasises that if technology is utilised excessively or without the presence of qualified teachers, the learning benefits decline.
Equitable Learning: According to the research, imbalances in learning occur when instruction becomes solely remote, impacting vulnerable pupils, particularly in rural places.
Evidence-based Approach: The paper advocates for reliable, unbiased evidence on the impact of technology on education, as most available research comes from technology companies and may be biassed.
Costs and Sustainability in the Long Run: Countries must evaluate the long-term costs of digital learning and connection. The growth of the Edtech business should not be allowed to overwhelm unfulfilled basic education demands.
AI threats include: The advancement of generative AI and technology involves the development of digital literacy and critical thinking abilities.
Children’s Rights: During the epidemic, several internet education programmes ran the risk of violating children’s rights.
Key endorsements include the prohibition of smartphones in schools
The paper supports the prohibition of smartphones in schools if technological integration does not increase learning or has a negative impact on student well-being.
According to research, prohibiting mobile phones in schools can improve academic performance, particularly among low-performing kids.
