The Influence of Technology
By: Kyra Nylin
Introduction
Technology has become a largely dominant part of today's society. This is especially seen among teenagers. There is much debate on whether or not this is a good thing. It is my belief that some technology is incredibly beneficial and some is not.
(many of these pictures were somehow turned sideways and I couldn't figure out how to fix it.)
Computers/ Laptops- General
Today, many students- specifically high school seniors- are required to have laptops. This is so that they can use programs like Microsoft Office and MyBigCampus. These resources aid the students in their learning experience. Although they occasionally have minor technical problems, they are a positive addition to the high school setting.
Computers/Laptops- Statistics
Computers are such a major part of education now. In a recent study held by the University of Michigan Center for Research on Learning and Teaching shows that 75% of students admitted that bringing their laptops to class increased their time spent on things unrelated to learning such as checking email and social networking. 40% admitted to feeling "slightly or significantly" distracted by their laptops. 60% of students that actively use their laptops in class reported to feeling more engaged in class than the 39% of those that do not actively use them, despite their being allowed in class.
Cell Phones- General
Outside of school, smart phones, and cell phones in general, are a very helpful tool. In school however, they are very distracting. I believe that in a classroom they should not be permitted. It can be very difficult at times to tell when some students are using their phones in class. In hallways between classes they should be permitted in order to give students the opportunity to complain about classes with the friends they don't have time to see or to talk to their parents about how they're getting home after practice and situations like that.
Cell Phones- Statistics
There have been extensive studies on the effects of cell phones on students. Studies show that it doesn't really matter whether or not the phones are allowed, they will be used anyway. Statistics indicate that in schools that allow cell phones in both school and class, 71% of students receive or send texts in class. In schools that allow them in school but not in class, that percentage drops to 65%. It drops only slightly, only to 68%, in schools that do not allow cell phones during school at all.
Video Games- General
Video game consoles, like the ever-popular xbox, are a source of much debate in our society. Some say they rot your brain and are evil. Some say they are overall beneficial by improving hand-eye coordination. The actual benefits depend on the time spent using them.
Video Games- Statistics
In a survey of just over 4000 students, it was discovered that boys that regularly play video games have lower odds of smoking regularly and girls that regularly play video games were less likely to report depression. Females however, were more likely to report getting into serious fights. 5.8% of boys and 3.0% of girls developed symptoms of addictions in relation to video game playing. This includes experiencing an irresistible urge to play and a growing tension that could only be relieved by playing.
Conclusion
In all, most statistics prove that technology in class is distracting. This does not however reflect badly on the grades received by the students that have technology integrated into their schooling. It is shown that grades improve when using technology. The use of laptops especially in schools help to keep students engaged in the lesson by giving them a hands-on way to learn. Cell phones are too big of a distraction in the class room and should be strictly limited to the hallways during passing periods.