Overuse Of Technology In The Classroom

For thousands of years two main sources of knowledge and influence dominated classroom learning - the teacher and the textbook, but in today’s world of unprecedented technological advancement, the Internet is a powerful tool in the classroom. (Loyola 2014) The research on the impacts of technology implemented into elementary school classrooms is limited, mostly anecdotal, leaving the question of whether the impact is more largely positive or negative unanswered and the subject of much speculation. Digital technology can be used to make learning more practical. Computer technology can empower students and create a more tailored learning experience. (Mackenzie 2015) Students who struggle with reading and writing find text-to-speech programs …show more content…
Some feel that overuse of technology in schools shortens attention spans, while limiting human interaction, which stunts development of social skills and emotional intelligence. (Cohen 2014) According to functionalists, socialization is necessary to produce a well-adjusted, contributing member of society, and the majority of the process takes place in childhood. Humans are the primary agents of socialization. There is simply no substitute for human interaction as a tool of socialization. (Little 2014) Children are easily distracted, and computers, with their flashing lights, are magnets pulling them away from engaging with teachers, peers and tactile materials, pulling them away from interaction that is essential to their socialization. A lot of computer use in childhood negatively impacts ability to sustain attention and resilience because computers make it so easy to switch to something else if the task at hand gets too boring or difficult. In addition, some parents are concerned about technology inhibiting creativity and critical thinking, rather than developing those skills. (Cohen 2014) In an Australian news article titled The Screens that are Stealing Childhood, psychologists discuss how while in the past children were often praised for their enormous creativity, today …show more content…
Technology is a big part of the workplace as well as everyday life, meaning that children must be prepared to deal with it. (Loyola 2014) The classroom can be a good place to teach this ability, provided technology is implemented into the classroom with a clear purpose. A focus on teaching skills similar to those used in everyday life by adults and technology being used merely to supplement other forms of teaching will help to make sure it does not become a distraction, detriment to socialization or source of overstimulation. (Chowdhry 2015) A balance is key and teachers and parents must proceed cautiously as they navigate these uncharted