1
How has the amount of time people spend on screens changed over recent decades?
It has grown exponentially, largely because digital devices have shifted from being specialised tools into ubiquitous lifestyle necessities. Decades ago, screens were mostly restricted to evening television or office computers. Nowadays, practically every aspect of life, from banking and navigation to shopping, revolves around smartphones. While this undeniably improves convenience, it has created a culture where people rarely experience moments of complete detachment from digital media throughout their waking hours.
2
Why do some individuals find it extremely difficult to disconnect from their devices?
I suppose it comes down to a combination of psychological design and professional pressure. Most online platforms are engineered to deliver constant dopamine hits through notifications, which fosters compulsive checking habits. On top of that, modern employment often blurs the boundary between personal time and work, making employees anxious about missing urgent messages. Consequently, switching off can trigger a genuine fear of being left out of the loop.
3
What impact does excessive screen use have on interpersonal relationships in society?
In many respects, it tends to erode the quality of face-to-face communication. Even when people are physically together, they often divide their attention between the conversation and their mobile phones, which can make companions feel undervalued. For instance, family mealtimes frequently suffer from these interruptions. However, it's worth noting that screens also allow distant relatives to maintain daily contact, so the social outcome largely depends on personal discipline.
4
Do you think future workplaces will encourage staff to spend less time online?
I believe they might be forced to, primarily because cognitive fatigue and burnout are becoming major workplace liabilities. Progressive firms are already experimenting with offline brainstorming sessions and strict policies against sending emails out of hours to protect well-being. Nevertheless, as remote working continues to dominate, eliminating screen dependency entirely seems impractical, so any reductions will likely be modest and carefully managed.
5
What are the advantages and drawbacks of introducing mandatory screen-free days in schools?
The primary benefit is that it encourages active play, face-to-face socialising, and better concentration on physical tasks like reading paper books. It reminds pupils that learning doesn't always require a monitor. On the other hand, a strict ban can be counterproductive if teachers rely on digital resources for interactive science or language lessons. Therefore, a flexible compromise is usually better than a rigid ban.
Use the shape, not the sentences: a view, a reason, an example, a limit. Examiners mark memorised answers down.