A recent survey conducted among over 10,500 members of the National Education Union (NEU) revealed that extreme online content and personalities are inciting racist, misogynistic, and hateful behaviors among students. The study also highlighted the detrimental effects of social media use on students, with concerns raised by teachers about reduced concentration (71%), mental health issues (67%), and sleep disturbances (66%).
The NEU findings coincide with Keir Starmer’s initiative to combat addictive algorithms and address online harms, promising swift action to tackle the issue. The survey indicated that more than half of teachers (56%) attribute misogynistic behavior among students to extreme online content, while a similar percentage (52%) blame it for fostering racist behavior. Additionally, a significant number of teachers reported that their students were influenced by homophobic or transphobic content (45%) and conspiracy theories or misinformation (43%).
Secondary school students were found to be more prone to expressing hateful views, as indicated by the survey results. The proliferation of online content has also led to an increase in teachers facing abuse, with nearly two-thirds experiencing verbal assaults from pupils in the past year and a notable percentage encountering sexualized comments.
Female teachers (19%) reported experiencing misogyny, while Black teachers (13%) reported racial abuse from students. Concerningly, one teacher noted that racist and homophobic language learned online is becoming normalized in schools. Furthermore, over half of teachers (55%) stated that social media use contributes to bullying and harassment within school premises.
Teachers overwhelmingly support stricter regulations on tech firms to shield children from addictive algorithms, with 98% advocating for such measures. In response to these concerns, the government is contemplating potential interventions, such as a social media ban, restrictions on addictive apps, or nighttime curfews.
NEU General Secretary Daniel Kebede emphasized the harmful impact of addictive social media algorithms on children, leading to negative behaviors influenced by online content. The call for stricter regulation is driven by the urgent need to safeguard young people from the adverse effects of online exposure.
Government officials acknowledged the gravity of the situation, highlighting the necessity for robust actions to ensure children’s online safety. Stringent online safety laws have been implemented, mandating platforms to remove illegal content and protect minors from harmful material. Additionally, guidance has been issued to promote mobile phone-free school environments, and consultations are underway to explore further measures, including potential social media restrictions for children.
The NEU survey was conducted online among 10,578 teacher members and 3,230 support staff members in state schools across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
