In today’s age of digital innovation, the integration of technology into households, particularly in the context of children, has emerged as a subject of concern for numerous parents. Salman Khan, the esteemed founder and CEO of the non-profit organization Khan Academy, which offers complimentary online educational resources, recently articulated his perspective on this matter. Profoundly entrenched in the realms of technology and education, Khan shed light on his approach to managing technology within his own family.
Khan concedes that striking a balance between the advantages and potential drawbacks of technology poses a complex challenge. He underscores that while there are no universally applicable solutions, each family operates within its own distinct parameters. As a parent himself, Khan and his spouse have adopted a cautious stance on social media and mobile devices, particularly when it comes to their children. They have chosen to keep their children away from social media platforms, and their eldest child, who is 15 years old, primarily uses a cellphone for essential communication.
Accentuating the advantageous facets of technology, Khan emphasizes its potential for facilitating personalized and accessible education for individuals globally, drawing from his experiences in spearheading Khan Academy. He champions online learning, coding, writing, video editing, and digital art as productive and educational applications of technology.
However, Khan does not disregard the potential detriments of technology, particularly within the realms of social media and the rise of AI. He raises apprehensions about the deployment of AI-generated deep-fakes for cyberbullying and the manipulation of young individuals on social media. To mitigate these risks, he advocates for families to establish a secret code word as an additional precaution.
In essence, Khan’s approach to managing technology at home revolves around cultivating a sense of balance and intentionality. He advocates for harnessing the positive aspects of technology for educational and creative pursuits, while conscientiously shielding children from its potential drawbacks. Additionally, he stresses the significance of real-world activities, open communication, and disengagement from technology as a means of remaining present for children.
Khan’s insights offer invaluable guidance for parents navigating the complexities of integrating technology within the family setting. It underscores the importance of a deliberate and considerate approach towards the use of technology, especially in the context of safeguarding the well-being of children. Let us endeavour to strike a harmonious balance that allows us to harness the benefits of technology while prioritizing the protection and holistic development of our children.