HEURISTIC 6/10
Stimulate social connection
OVERVIEW
Students desire greater social connections in their daily school routine, as a sense of belonging boosts motivation and fosters appreciation for diversity.
However, with technology-based socialization, they might feel disconnected or experience comparison and fear of missing out. Hence, technology usage should be approached with careful awareness.
Recommendations
RECOMMENDATION 1
Help students feel more connected with the people around them
SIGNIFICANCE
- •A sense of belongingness fuels student motivation. Social connections provide opportunities to interact with diverse individuals.
- •The influence of friends encourages students to try new things. Friends aid in identifying achievements, goals, strengths, and weaknesses.
- •Distractions from technology can hinder success and exploration of new endeavors.
RECOMMENDATION 2
Try to avoid pushing kids too hard (ex: talk to total strangers) - make it a challenging, yet fun experience
SIGNIFICANCE
- •This ensures that students with low social comfort feel heard and included
- •It's important that all students are able to participate
- •This gives students a safe space to step outside their comfort zone
RECOMMENDATION 3
Help students from different social bubbles mingle
SIGNIFICANCE
- •Students fall into a hierarchy of "status" and selectiveness based on regular vs. honors classes
- •Social bubbles are shaped by personal interests and being in classes together