"Screen time does not equal learning time" with Dr. Brian Beckley

Join host Josh Ochs on the SmartSocial.com Podcast as he talks with Dr. Brian Beckley, Chief Information Officer for Everett Public Schools (just north of Seattle, serving about 20,000 students across 28 schools), about the difference between being on a screen and actually learning. Dr. Beckley explains why “screen time does not equal learning time,” and how too much device time can weaken peer interaction, conflict-resolution skills, and student well-being, especially after the heavy screen years coming out of COVID. They also dig into AI and critical thinking, including why students need to learn the content first so they can verify accuracy, spot bias, and avoid letting AI replace their own work. The conversation closes with practical steps for families, from having regular check-ins about how kids are using AI to reinforcing privacy habits and healthier device routines at home.