Students are making complex decisions about AI, social media, and digital life every day — without structured space to think them through. The Ethical Tech Lab gives them that space.
The Ethical Tech Lab gives students the tools to navigate complex technology choices before habits — and dependencies — are deeply formed. Modeled after the nationally recognized Ethics Bowl format and adapted for upper elementary and middle school, it picks up where Digital Citizenship leaves off — moving from awareness into structured ethical reasoning and student-led discussion.
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The National High School Ethics Bowl has been developing students' ethical reasoning skills for over two decades. Unlike traditional debate, the Ethics Bowl rewards thoughtful analysis, intellectual humility, and the willingness to change your mind when presented with a better argument.
Source: National High School Ethics Bowl participant surveys (nhseb.org)
Every dilemma is panel-written, fact-checked, and drawn from situations students actually face — not hypotheticals from a textbook.
Every session is built around a panel-written ethical dilemma drawn from the technology issues your students are already navigating — AI, social media, gaming, privacy, screen time, and digital identity.
Feedback from parents from the inaugural 2025–2026 Ethical Tech Lab pilot and Tournament.
"I really appreciate the debate-style format of the Ethical Tech Lab. It encourages my child to listen to different perspectives, think critically, and clearly explain their own ideas about technology and ethics. This has helped my child become more mindful and thoughtful about their online behavior and decisions."
"I am blown away by the impact the Ethical Tech Bowl. It's an incredibly unique experience for our kids. The peer debate, discussion, and review are a format that really resonates with kids. It ensures the lessons stick with our kids. It's also interesting for parents to hear their kids (and kids' friends) discuss these topics. What an eye-opening event!"
"What a unique and impactful experience! The Ethical Tech Lab is a once in a lifetime event that challenges students to examine complex technological dilemmas. In doing so, it sharpens their critical thinking, strengthens their ability to engage in meaningful debate with their peers, teaches them to actively work as a team, and builds confidence and self-esteem. It was incredible to watch the students engage and empower their classmates!"
Students apply their learning in a structured, team-based format inspired by the Ethics Bowl model. Success is not based on "winning an argument" — but on demonstrating thoughtful reasoning, openness to new ideas, and the ability to engage in civil discourse.
The 2026–2027 pilot is free. We're looking for 5–10 schools to run the program and help us refine it. Share your info below and we'll reach out directly.