FridayOL

A former English teacher in Singapore has become a viral sensation after sharing a scathing critique of modern classrooms and, more specifically, the excuses students offer for misusing technology. In a recent interview following her viral exit video, she delved deeper into the frustrations that led her to leave the profession, revealing a pattern of increasingly flimsy justifications for using devices in class for everything *but* learning.

The teacher, who wishes to remain anonymous, initially gained attention for a video where she dramatically announced her resignation, citing the challenges of maintaining order and engaging students in a digitally distracted environment. The video quickly spread across social media, resonating with many educators who face similar struggles.

Now, in a more detailed interview, she's elaborated on the specific issues. “It wasn’t just about students scrolling through TikTok during lessons,” she explained. “It was the excuses. The constant stream of excuses for why they *needed* to be on their phones, their iPads, their laptops. It became exhausting.”

She shared examples, ranging from the mildly believable – “My grandma was calling” – to the utterly absurd – “My cat was stuck in a tree and I needed to video call the fire department.” While acknowledging that occasional emergencies do arise, she said the frequency of these claims, combined with the lack of accountability, became overwhelming.

“I tried everything,” she admitted. “Clear rules, engaging lesson plans, incorporating technology *appropriately* into the curriculum. But the underlying problem was a lack of respect for the learning environment and a sense of entitlement when it came to using devices.”

The teacher’s experience highlights a broader debate about the role of technology in education. While technology offers incredible opportunities for learning and engagement, it also presents significant challenges for educators trying to manage distractions and maintain focus. Many schools in Singapore are grappling with how to best integrate technology without compromising the quality of education.

Experts suggest that a multi-faceted approach is needed, including stricter device policies, digital literacy training for both students and teachers, and a greater emphasis on teaching self-regulation and responsible technology use. Parental involvement is also considered crucial in reinforcing these values at home.

“I loved teaching, and I truly believe in the power of education,” the teacher concluded. “But I couldn’t continue in an environment where the constant battle against distractions and the endless stream of excuses was draining my energy and hindering my ability to effectively reach my students.” Her story serves as a stark reminder of the pressures faced by educators in the digital age and the need for a thoughtful and sustainable approach to integrating technology into the classroom.

The viral video and subsequent interview have sparked a wider conversation about the challenges of teaching in the 21st century, prompting educators and policymakers alike to re-evaluate their strategies for engaging students and fostering a culture of learning in a world saturated with technology.