Queensland remains reluctant to introduce screen-time limits in schools, despite national moves towards device-free learning and artificial intelligence bans. Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek said the state was not yet following the technology restrictions being considered elsewhere.
The position emerged after state and federal education ministers agreed that every state would “set or consider” limits on screen use and restrictions on artificial intelligence in classrooms.
At the same meeting, ministers approved changes to the national primary mathematics curriculum, with a greater emphasis on foundational skills following declining NAPLAN results.
The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority said the revised approach would use more accessible language, introduce financial literacy earlier and arrange lessons in a clearer sequence, building progressively from basic concepts.
Some references to technology and suggested teaching methods would also be removed from the curriculum. The changes could be introduced in Queensland as early as next year.
Queensland cautious on classroom technology limits
Mr Langbroek said other proposals remained subject to approval, including a possible return to pen-and-paper NAPLAN tests for Year 5 pupils in 2028.
ACARA chief executive Stephen Gniel said the mathematics revisions were intended to put mathematical content first, while still allowing digital devices to be used “purposefully”.
“Ultimately, these changes are about giving every child the strongest possible start in mathematics, while supporting teachers with a clearer and more practical curriculum,” Mr Gniel said.
Professor Vince Geiger, a mathematics education researcher at the Australian Catholic University in Brisbane, cautioned against excluding technology altogether. He said digital tools could connect mathematical learning with real-world situations, including helping children understand money in a society where coins are used less often.
He also warned that concentrating only on basic skills could disengage pupils. Learning mathematics, he said, was like learning a sport: children should not spend all 12 years “in the nets and never be able to play a game”.
The curriculum changes will also include new teaching material on antisemitism, following recommendations made after the Bondi Beach terror attack last December.
