Technology is now advancing at an unparalleled rate, opening up possibilities once thought unimaginable. Unfortunately, with this exciting advancement looms the doubt of whether this will lead to more benefit than harm, especially considering the consequences that this can bring into classrooms.
Rudeness, lack of attention, and anxiety all prevail among these consequences and present a concern for those of us addicted to technology. These consequences, however, are not due to technology itself, but rather it’s the inappropriate use of technology that causes problems in schools, workplaces, and other institutions worldwide.
Junior Matt Bolin claims the people who are distracted often do not realize that they are. “I was talking to a student on her phone once, and there came a point when I told her to get off her phone. After a while, she goes back to her phone mid-conversation and I again had to tell her to get off her phone.”
I was talking to a student on her phone once, and there came a point when I told her to get off her phone. After a while, she goes back to her phone mid-conversation and I again had to tell her to get off her phone.
— Matt Bolin
It’s concerning when situations like these are not uncommon across this world. Teachers and students alike are finding the technological distraction to be damaging and honestly quite vexing.
One solution that has already been implemented in several schools worldwide is to ban students from bringing phones with them. While this may seem beneficial at first, students find that having their phones can be a de-stressor and a tool for further learning as well as a go-to gadget in case an emergency pops up.
Sophomore Sandro Xiao believes that having a phone helps him throughout the school day. “Without my phone, I wouldn’t be able to conveniently access information that helps me finish my homework. Also, some clubs put meeting times out on a group chat which I wouldn’t be able to easily access without my phone.” However, sometimes students abuse their privileges and make their phone and other technologies an impediment to learning.
Nevertheless, banning phones is not the best option. Instead, as problems such as teenage anxiety, lack of attention, and depression are becoming more prevalent, it’s important that as students, we don’t let our technology dominate over the important aspects of our life – such as education and family.
Vashi Chintalapalli • Oct 19, 2018 at 9:28 am
When it comes down to it, phones are a tool. I also agree banning phones is not the best option. How do you feel about setting restrictions on certain apps that create distraction and anxiety during school hours?