The Analogue Dark Mode: Exploring Digital Privacy & Wellbeing

This is a 1-hour, phone-free lesson designed for students aged 14–18, exploring digital wellbeing, privacy, and online identity. Through interactive activities, discussions, and reflections, students experience what it feels like to disconnect from their devices, understand the difference between public and private spaces online, and develop practical strategies to take control of their digital lives.

**Resources Needed: **

• Post-it notes (for reflections, mapping digital spaces, and Dark Mode challenge)
• Large sheets of paper / flipchart paper (for mapping the “digital cave”)
• Markers / pens (for labeling and drawing)
• Optional: projector or screen for displaying discussion slides

What’s Included:

-Activities such as mapping digital spaces, Dark Mode simulations, and group debate

-Discussion prompts to encourage critical thinking about privacy, performative fatigue, and digital ghosting

-Reflection exercises for students to consider their own digital habits

-Slide prompts and visuals ideas in notes

-Practical Dark Mode challenge to apply skills after class

Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

-Reflect on their feelings when disconnected from their devices (FOMO vs JOMO-Joy of Missing Out)

-Map their online presence and understand public vs private digital spaces

-Evaluate privacy risks, including message sharing and screenshots

-Discuss digital trends like ghosting and zero-post profiles

-Apply at least one “Dark Mode” habit to reclaim focus and privacy

Why This Lesson Works:
This lesson goes beyond traditional digital literacy, it immerses students in the experience of being untracked and unobserved, helping them understand their digital footprint in a safe, structured environment. Perfect for tutor time, PSHE, or digital wellbeing sessions.