Year 2050: Project Re-Education
Project Re-Education[edit]
“I view the students’ writings as speculative-ontologies. The ‘bodies’ or events activated in speculative writing are ‘real’ as linguistic marks on the page, and the worlds they discuss are also ‘real’ (lived SF situated knowledges) although speculative. The students’ writings exemplify Haraway’s SF and probe questions such as: if our present city is unbearable, how might we craft an alternative world? Once the students presented their speculative cities to each other, and discussed their own writing practices, they posted their writings on telephone poles for other people to read. This was a way of ‘publishing’ their writings and answering back to the ‘real’ city and its inhabitants as probes for further thought” (Truman, 2018 p. 37)
Our Society[edit]
Pre-2035, we lived in a society where students and parents essentially ran the educational system wherein, teachers, administration, and superintendents bent the rules to appease parents rather than focusing on developing the life skills that students need. The world we live in now used to be considered a speculative ontology where students have every one of their needs met, resulting in a society where they believe they could behave however they want without consequence.
The overarching issue facing education is accountability from students. It's always everyone's fault but the students. This not only hinders their growth, but it makes the profession difficult to navigate. If teachers have to babysit and walk on eggshells around students, then how do students grow?
By the year 2035, the overuse of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in schools has precipitated a gradual but profound societal decline. Initially applauded for its potential to revolutionize education, the pervasive integration of AI and technology into classrooms has led to the erosion of human interactions within the educational experience. As students become increasingly reliant on AI-driven systems for learning, the once vibrant teacher-student dynamic diminishes, giving way to a transactional environment characterized by screen-mediated interactions. This shift not only erodes crucial communication skills and emotional intelligence but also fosters social isolation as genuine human connections are replaced by virtual ones. Moreover, the disproportionate emphasis on technological proficiency exacerbates economic inequalities, leaving behind those unable to access or navigate advanced technology. With critical thinking skills declining and ethical dilemmas surrounding data privacy and algorithmic bias unresolved, society finds itself at a crossroads where the very foundations of democracy, culture, and individual identity are threatened. With students of the 2019-2030 era entering the workforce, it became clear that technology and the abuse of AI had led society down a dark path wherein the world had changed for the worse. Unless decisive action is taken to recalibrate the balance between technology and humanity in education, the societal fabric may unravel further, leaving a starkly different world for future generations.
In the year 2035, decisive action is taken as society finds itself at a crossroads as the repercussions of a technological revolt unfold, prompting stringent government interventions aimed at regulating the pervasive use of technology, notably within the realm of education. The aftermath of widespread technological misuse and abuse has compelled a conservative administration to implement draconian measures, effectively imposing a complete prohibition on the use of technology outside of work or school institutions. This prohibition extends beyond mere restrictions, enforced rigorously by the formidable "Accountability Storm Troopers," charged with identifying and apprehending individuals suspected of infractions such as cheating or improper tech usage within academic environments.
Under this authoritarian regime, those found in violation of the technological restrictions face dire consequences, as they are swiftly transported to what have been colloquially dubbed "traditional schools." These schools are completely devoid of technology, and students are forced to return to archaic educational methods that rely solely on pencils, paper, and face-to-face interactions. The sharp contrast between the enticing promise of advanced technology and the straightforwardness of “traditional schooling" emphasizes the seriousness of the government's reaction to concerns about technology exceeding its bounds.
As society grapples with the implications of this technological crackdown, questions arise regarding the balance between innovation and regulation, individual liberties, and societal responsibility. The narrative of the "Accountability Storm Troopers" serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the delicate equilibrium between technological progress and its potential pitfalls, while underscoring the enduring importance of accountability and ethical conduct in an increasingly digitized world.
The societal backlash against the perceived erosion of traditional learning values has catalyzed a profound shift in educational policy, resulting in a transition from liberal ideals to a more authoritarian regime. This seismic transformation reflects a collective yearning for a return to foundational principles amidst the relentless march of technological progress. In this new educational landscape, all students are initially granted equitable access to technological resources within the confines of schools, symbolizing a semblance of equality in an increasingly controlled society where consequences are strict and enforced especially among students.
However, this apparent equality disguises a deeper truth: the spectre of authoritarianism looms large, ready to exact swift retribution upon those who dare to misuse or abuse the privileges afforded by technology. For those found culpable of transgressions, the punishment is severe: banishment to "traditional schools” for a whole semester, where the trappings of modernity are conspicuously absent. Stripped of digital comforts, students are thrust into a bygone era, where pencils scratch against paper and face-to-face interaction replaces the digital chaos of social media.
Furthermore, the reach of authoritarianism extends beyond the classroom, forcing parents to be accountable for their children's actions. Parents, too, find themselves liable by governmental control, subject to uncompromising restrictions on the purchase of technology for their children. By compelling families to reassess their priorities and embrace a return to foundational social skills and learning methods.
Amidst the backdrop of these sweeping changes, the future unfolds as a poignant exploration of the tensions inherent in a world teetering on technological advancement. It is a tale of struggle and redemption, of personal accountability pitted against societal values in a world widespread with uncertainty and polarization. As the pendulum swings closer to the extremes, the true cost of progress becomes increasingly apparent, serving as a stark reminder of the delicate equilibrium that governs the intersection of technology, humanity, and societal progress. Through the use of “traditional schools”, students are now forced to take accountability for their learning as they face consequences for misuse of technology such as using TikTok while in class and using artificial intelligence to complete work. Parents are forced to teach their kids values and manners that are built upon and nurtured at school to ensure we create citizens who contribute to society in meaningful ways, rather than the students who find excuses to opt out of learning. While the shift from Liberal to Conservative education has been extreme, it has helped students be more empathic toward each other and society as they view the world through their own eyes rather than through curated timelines and for-you pages on social media.
The shift away from policing phone use and behaviour among students has enabled teachers to redirect their focus entirely toward teaching and guiding students toward achieving their educational goals as they progress through the education system. By relinquishing the burden of constantly monitoring and managing students' technology usage, educators are now able to invest more time and energy into fostering a supportive and enriching learning environment.
With the elimination of the need to constantly intervene in disciplinary matters related to technology, teachers can devote themselves wholeheartedly to their core mission of imparting knowledge and nurturing the intellectual and personal growth of their students. Freed from the constraints of constant surveillance, educators are empowered to engage in more meaningful interactions with their students, providing personalized guidance, feedback, and support tailored to each individual's unique learning needs and aspirations.
This paradigm shift not only allows teachers to reclaim their role as facilitators of learning but also fosters a sense of trust and mutual respect between educators and students. By shifting the focus away from punitive measures towards a more collaborative and supportive approach, teachers can cultivate a positive classroom culture where students feel empowered to take ownership of their learning journey and actively participate in the educational process.
Ultimately, by empowering teachers to prioritize teaching and mentorship over disciplinary duties, the education system can better fulfill its mandate of equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to succeed in an increasingly complex and dynamic world.
Mental Health[edit]
The radical shift in society has had an extremely positive impact on the mental health of our students. An increase in the overall mental health has also directly resulted in higher test scores, participation in extracurriculars, and morale among all students in schools. All students appear far more confident as bullying between peers is very minimal and cyber bullying ceases to exist due to the technology prohibition. Reports of eating disorders and people experiencing body conscious issues have also greatly decreased as a result of the technology and subsequent social media ban. In this new society, there is no social media where people can compare themselves to others. There are also no apps such as Facetune which allow people to alter their appearances online, and even if Facetune still existed, there would be nowhere to post these photos as social media ceases to exist. Due to the lack of social media, the ability of people to compare themselves to one another or compete for followers or likes is obsolete and this has all resulted in a greater focus on academics and a societal mental health improvement. Overall, citizens of this society are empowered to find be their authentic selves as no one is pretending to be a character they think is entertaining on mediums such as social media.
Geography of this New Canada[edit]
As a result of the new government of 2035 and the prohibition on technology use in our daily lives, communities are embracing the creation of more parks and green spaces. The new framework of society provides families with more opportunities to disconnect from digital distractions and reconnect with each other. These outdoor green spaces offer a respite from the constant buzz of technology, allowing families to engage in leisurely activities and forge meaningful connections in a natural setting. These spaces also foster a sense of community, kids are playing outside and socializing with one another as opposed to hiding behind a screen. Additionally, playgrounds, amusement parks, and waterparks provide safe environments where kids can simply be kids, free from the pressures of technology and adult responsibilities. Whether it's exploring the wonders of nature in a local park, delighting in the thrills of an amusement park, or seeking shelter from the winter chill in indoor play areas, these spaces foster a sense of community and belonging while promoting physical activity and social interaction. With increased investment in community development initiatives, these spaces serve as catalysts for fostering stronger bonds among families and building vibrant, interconnected neighbourhoods for generations to come.
The new conservative government has also brought forth a renewed interest in preserving the natural landscape. As a response to society shifting away from its heavy reliance on technology, and citizens valuing their time in nature more, technology manufacturers and storage facilities have closed, leaving a place to create more green spaces. With reduced production and utilization of technology, the strain on our natural resources has also diminished, paving the way for a more sustainable future wherein our citizens value being in nature. The dilapidated structures of abandoned technology factories have jumpstarted new initiatives to create more parks, hiking trails and green spaces. These once desolate, cold and industrial areas have slowly transformed into vibrant spaces where kids have spaces to be kids again. In 2024, there was an epidemic amongst the retail market, referred to as the “Sephora Kids” wherein packs of ten year old girls tore through Sephora isles looking for Drunk Elephant Bronzing Drops and retinol because they were influenced to buy it from creators on TikTok. These packs of children terrorized employees and consumers alike, traversing through the isles of the makeup store, wasting all of the testors and being verbally abusive to anyone in their path to obtain Summer Fridays lipgloss or any product from Drunk Elephant. As kids of this era were heavily influenced by social media, they blindly followed whatever their influencer icons were doing. Kids no longer had a place nor desire to be kids and play on playgrounds as they were too busy in the isles of Sephora and filming “Get Ready With Me” TikToks. Whereas, since the prohibition of technology as a society we become increasingly more mindful of the impact of our actions on the planet, initiatives aimed at preserving and enhancing our natural surroundings gain traction, ushering in an era of harmony between humanity and the environment. We have also created spaces and desires for kids to simply be kids again.
Transportation[edit]
Since the ban on technology, we have seen a shift in interactions between people. Before 2035, people were becoming more apathetic towards each other and often exceptionally cruel. Through the ban on personal devices and technology, people were initially forced to talk to their neighbours and check in with one another. It has become customary to greet one another with a “Good morning” or “How are you?” and as citizens have continued to develop their social skills, many have full blown conversations with random strangers.
This ban has drastically changed transportation systems in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area. During 2022-2026, we were seeing a rise in hate crime and crime in general. It reached a point where women and children actively avoided transportation systems due to the lack of safety. Now, people take care of one another as they are not absorbed by their personal devices. While the bystander effect still exists slightly, it has become the norm to look out for one another so much that children can ride transportation systems safely as humans are more aware of their surroundings. We have also seen a shift in behaviour, where people do not behave obnoxiously by playing loud music or having loud conversations on their phones.
Impact on Education[edit]
The impact on education resulting from the elimination of technology is a shift in educational focus. Teachers are now required to completely redirect their attention towards teaching and guiding their students. This allows them to reclaim their role as facilitators of learning and fosters a positive classroom environment. The prohibition empowers teachers to engage in more meaningful interactions with their students, providing personalized guidance, feedback, and support tailored to each student's learning needs. This enhances the overall quality of education and cultivates a sense of trust and mutual respect between teachers and students. The government's intervention in banning technology enforces accountability and discipline among students, who may face major consequences such as being sent to "traditional schools" without access to technology. Furthermore, it promotes mental well-being by alleviating the pressure to compete on social media platforms, empowering students to focus on their academics and personal growth. In this new society, we have achieved a work-life balance as students and workers alike are forced to complete work by then end of the day in their institutions as they are not able to access technology outside of those buildings. Overall, the adoption of a traditional educational model and strict regulation of technology allow for a balance between technology and humanity. This enables society to create a more supportive, enriching, and equitable educational environment for future generations.