At the middle school level, we’re starting to see kids show up with smartwatches that track their steps, buzz with reminders, or even let them send quick messages. Others might get their first exposure to wearable tech through school projects—things like coding a simple fitness tracker or trying out a virtual reality experience in a science unit. It’s no longer new or futuristic—it’s here.
There’s definitely some potential. VR can take students on virtual field trips to places they’d never get to see otherwise. Some wearables can help with focus, mindfulness, or staying active—things that can support learning in the right context. But there are also some clear downsides.
Privacy is a big one. These devices collect personal data—sometimes a lot of it. Who sees that info? What’s done with it? Most middle schoolers don’t think about that, and honestly, a lot of adults don’t either. Then there’s the equity issue. Not every student can afford a smartwatch or VR headset, and when we bring these into the classroom, we need to be careful not to widen the gap.
At the school where I teach, we don’t allow wearable tech in the classroom. And honestly, I think that’s the right call—at least for now. It’s already tough enough to help kids disconnect from their phones for a few hours. Taking smartwatches out of the equation gives them one less thing to distract them and one more chance to be present.
Wearable tech is going to keep
growing, and our students will need to know how to navigate it—both the
benefits and the risks. As teachers and tech users ourselves, we can help by
keeping the conversation going and making sure we’re not just using tech for
tech’s sake. Sometimes, the best lesson we can offer is when not to use
it.
