Students launch Lookupp App to help other students connect more IRL
In a world dominated by screens and digital interactions, two brothers from New Hanover County in North Carolina are on a mission to reignite face-to-face conversations and real-world connections. Their creation, the innovative Lookupp app, is making waves by encouraging students to put down their phones and raise their heads to the world around them. Through their thoughtful initiative, these students are reinforcing the importance of balancing screen time with genuine, in-person engagement.
A Glimpse of Lookupp and Its Creators
Samin and Atiksh Bhan, students with a shared vision, have pioneered a solution that goes beyond controlling screen time. The duo developed the Lookupp app, the winner of Rep. David Rouzer’s 2022 Congressional App Challenge in North Carolina’s Seventh District. One of the biggest perks of the technology is how simple it is to use: by clicking a button on the app, your phone will notify those around you to put their devices down and “look up!” The app is designed to gently prompt people to disconnect from their devices and promote meaningful connections without invading their privacy.
As Samin, the CEO and founder, expressed, “Rather than controlling screen time, we are nudging people to put down their phones, without interfering with privacy, in the moments that matter most.” Their journey began with a personal revelation – the realization that screens were inadvertently overshadowing their real-world interactions, even during cherished moments like Sunday morning breakfasts.
The power of Lookupp lies in its ability to encourage people to strike a balance between their devices and time spent with friends and family. In their pursuit of authentic connections, the brothers explored how screens were impacting their in-real-life connections and discovered that the issue wasn’t just the screens themselves, but rather the timing of engagement. This insight formed the cornerstone of their mission: to bring back the lost art of meaningful conversations and shared experiences.
Lookupp in Education
The impact of Lookupp has extended into New Hanover County classrooms, where educators recognize its potential to transform student engagement and interaction. Teachers are embracing the app as a tool to incentivize positive behavior in the classroom. From extra credit on tests to pizza parties, the rewards system built into Lookupp reinforces active participation and involvement.
The app’s influence goes beyond the classroom walls. Inspired by the Bhan brothers’ initiative, students from different schools are stepping up as Lookupp Leaders, taking on the role of introducing the app to a wider audience. These student leaders are not just advocating for reduced screen time but are spearheading a movement that values real-time, face-to-face connections.
Educator’s Role in Navigating the Balance
Educators are instrumental in helping promote the Lookupp app’s mission of striking a balance between screen time and personal interactions. You can weave this initiative into meaningful classroom discussion, or even implement tech-free time in class by highlighting the importance of striking a balance with technology. By educating students on the significance of managing screen time and fostering authentic connections, students are empowered to embrace social media and technology, while valuing real-world experiences. Here are some tips you can share with your students:
- When it is time to focus, use functions such as “Do Not Disturb,” power off, or even leave your phone in a different room. Avoiding digital distractions is a lot easier when you’re not seeing the notifications pop up on your phone.
- Add a “screen-free” time to your schedule. By creating a time of day when you are not using any devices, you build the habit of not relying on your devices all day. You will have more time to pursue hobbies, connect with friends, or even just relax.
- Avoid checking your phone first thing in the morning. It is easy to get caught up in scrolling first thing in the morning. If you build a habit of waking up without spending too much time on your phone, you will accomplish much more first thing in the morning.
- Put your phone away 30 minutes before bedtime. Not only will you feel more rested in the morning, it’ll be easier to initially fall asleep.
The Lookupp app’s journey, from creation to impact, highlights the importance of striking a balance with technology and the power of student voice. Their app not only encourages students to manage their screen time but also reiterates the importance of cherishing moments of in-person interaction. As an educator, you can join in on this mission and equip your own students with the skills needed to navigate the digital landscape while prioritizing meaningful real-world connections.
To learn more about your role as an educator in helping students strike a balance, check out our playbook with up-to-date stats on student screen time and tips on how to help students navigate their devices.
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The Social Institute (TSI) is the leader in empowering students by understanding students. Through #WinAtSocial, our gamified, peer-to-peer learning platform, we equip students, educators, and families to navigate their social world – in the classroom and beyond, online and offline – in healthy, high-character ways. Our unique, student-respected approach empowers and equips, rather than scares and restricts. We incorporate timely topics about social media, tech use, and current events that are impacting student well-being and learning. #WinAtSocial Lessons teach life skills for the modern day, capture student voice, and provide school leaders with actionable insights. Through these insights, students play an essential role in school efforts to support their own health, happiness, and future success as we enable high-impact teaching, meaningful family conversations, and a healthy school culture.