2020 was the year where the world turned on its head. Schools closed, social distancing was introduced and everyone isolated at home. This shift in lifestyle, due to the Coronavirus pandemic, meant that the home was now a place to exercise and work. What once existed as a place to cook, chat and relax became a stressful work environment, and with the rise of ever developing technology, life became a strange mix of hybrid socialisation and isolation.
Thanks to technological advancements such as Zoom, Teams and social media, especially within the education sector, lessons can now take place within the comfort of a pupil’s house. No preparation is required, just simply switch on the computer and get ready to learn. This on-demand method of teaching is incredibly simple and easy to use, however it can be noted that the home environment being used for education may be socially confusing for a pupil. The action of going to school provides a whole new social environment for the pupils to learn from, and with presence of teachers and other authority figures, they are intrinsically taught how to behave when existing outside of the house. Students who have harsh circumstances at home, may find relief when going to school, as it gives them the freedom to express themselves, and allows them to forget the troubles at home. They may also join clubs and other extra-curriculars to further expand their social circle outside of the house.
The argument for in person education can also be furthered by the gradual disappearance of ‘third spaces’. A ‘third space’ is a space that is neither home nor work, but somewhere in-between. They are places where you can study, chat to a friend and come up with ideas. Some include coffee shops, libraries, parks and bars, but also after school clubs, and other extracurriculars. Due to economical pressures in recent years, not only are products sold at these spaces becoming increasingly expensive, but many are choosing to shut down due to lack of profit. This helps to explain the loneliness epidemic which is becoming increasingly common with youngsters today, as more and more youth will spend time sat at home on devices.
It has been said that society is becoming increasingly antisocial, with the time spent with friends dropping from 6.5 hours a week in 2014, to 4 hours a week in 2019. This can be linked to rising cost of living, as well as increased social media usage, that helps to keep people connected in different ways. Watching ASMR on YouTube has been found to light up the same socialisation part of the brain that having a conversation with a friend would, releasing feel-good hormones like dopamine and oxytocin, filling socialisation needs without having to step foot out of the house.
This being said, the rise of technology is not all bad. Recorded lessons helps those who may not initially understand new concepts, and specific platforms can be used to directly aid those with special needs. We must learn to adapt to life in an ever increasing digital age, and choose to intentionally disconnect to ensure the home remains a safe, calm place for us to live.
