In the clip Max mentions the work of Andy Crouch. CPX interviewed Andy while he was in Australia in 2022 and put together a series of clips dealing with topics such as screen addiction, the pressures of social media, what true friendship looks like, and more. You can check out our Teens & Tech Unit which is based on these clips.
Introduce
Invite students to complete a silent individual reflection, responding to each question:
- In what ways do technology and my devices make my life better?
- In what ways do technology and my devices make my life worse?
Lead a quick survey-style class response to get the class thinking collectively: (show of hands or 1-5 fingers)
- Who checks their phone within 5 minutes of waking up?
- Who has ever deleted an app just to stop using it so much?
- Who has ever ‘lost time’ and missed a meal because of gaming or social media?
- Who’s ever felt anxious when they didn’t have their phone?
- Who’s tried a screen-time limit or “do not disturb” setting? Without success?
Watch & Discuss
Watch the “Technology Addiction” clip and then participate in a class discussion. Depending on time and dynamic this could be a mix of whole-class and/or small group responses to the following questions.
- How would you describe your relationship with technology?
- How do you think technology has changed the way we form and maintain relationships?
- How much of an impact has technology made on you? Your attention span, rest/sleep, creativity?
- What are your tips for “true freedom” in terms of using technology in a healthy way?
Bible Engagement
Display 1 Corinthians 6:12 and invite students to discuss how we are ‘mastered’ by our technology, and how we can make sure that we stay in charge of the technology in our lives.