Global Leadership Academy (GLA) in Jeffreys Bay is reviewing a possible return to physical textbooks for high school learners. The proposed change would affect Grades 8 to 12 from January 2027.
The school introduced digital eBooks in 2017. At the time, the move brought modern educational technology into the classroom. It also gave learners convenient access to textbooks and other learning material through digital devices.
However, the online environment has changed considerably during the past nine years. Learners now have easy access to messaging apps, social media, online games and artificial intelligence tools. As a result, connected devices can bring several distractions into the classroom.
Concerns Over Concentration And Learning
GLA management has raised concerns about the effect of digital devices on concentration, classroom participation and reading comprehension. The school is also considering how regular device use may affect handwriting and a learner’s ability to engage deeply with longer texts.
These concerns come from observations made within the school environment. In addition, GLA has examined recent educational research into digital learning and the effect of screens on young people.
The review includes insights from neuroscientist Jared Cooney Horvath’s book, The Digital Delusion. His work explores how digital technology may influence learning, memory and classroom performance.
The school has not yet confirmed the return to printed textbooks. Instead, it is evaluating the available evidence and considering the practical steps involved in such a change.
Information Evening For Parents And Learners
GLA will host a public information evening to discuss the proposed transition. During the session, the school will present its research and explain the reasons behind the review.
Management will also outline how the transition could work if the school approves the change. Parents and learners will therefore have an opportunity to understand the proposal and its possible effect on high school learning.
The information evening will take place on Tuesday, 22 September 2026, at 18:00. The venue is Global Leadership Academy in Jeffreys Bay.
Recent Comments