Does Technology Get in the Way of the Coursework?
Schools would spend lots of money on purchasing computers, installing smart boards, and wiring classrooms, which should increase student learning. Did it meet the goal? It seems hard to tell, as teenagers get distracted easily. And the Internet has too many distractions.
Education must be able to adapt to the current trends, which doesn't make it more relevant than ever. It should be able to close the gap between (student) learning and the students who struggle in the classroom for whatever reason(s). In this regard, technology would make the learning process more convenient to anyone. However, Susan Pinker wrote an op-ed about the effects of too much technology on schools (for New York Times) two years ago. There would be an upside and downside to it. The effects lean more to the latter, which should get in the way of the coursework. And the problem could go beyond the four walls of the classroom.
How does technology get in the way of coursework? Pinker's eye-opening article would allude to a few things, namely the student's learning curve, the background of students, and the distractions (such as social media).
3 Signs That Show that Students Have Too Much Tech
Some students are more equal than the others. Internet may have democratized the access to information, but it doesn't turn everyone into fast learners. Laptops and iPads may help students with disabilities, as the images (in the computer screen) would stimulate them (and help them understand a concept in a moment or minutes), but it won't be the same thing with other students. A study was conducted in Duke University, where it revealed that students who were too techy have a substantial decrease in their math and reading abilities. If you happen to be an English major student, then you wouldn't have problems in getting valuable tips on how to write a problem solution essay (after a brief Google search). The Internet won't help you read between the lines (and form your own perspective on a written text). It should apply the same for those who want to apply those long list of theorems especially the visual type of learners. Professors won't know it unless the students are open about it. (And some are rather sensitive on this matter.) You must be able to rethink your way of learning such things.
Technology would expose the great divide. Former President Barack Obama vowed to “protect a free and open Internet” and “extend its reach to every classroom and every community.” It was hard to tell if he delivered on that promise, but it wouldn't be his fault. It wouldn't be an open secret that there would be less-privileged citizens of America while poverty kept some folks from getting a decent education. The scenario wouldn't be too different in college. (Student debt is a different matter.) Where do you come from? If it's the Midwest, then there would be a lead. (Past election results have shown that these states could influence the outcome.) However, this issue doesn't have to do with some parents wanting to send their kids to low-tech schools. They would come from the old school. There won't be a bridge (to connect the great divide) anytime soon.
Internet would work both ways. Social media found its way in the classrooms, and you must be creative enough to know how to use it to your advantage. For instance, literary quotes could garner hundreds of impressions (after posting it on Twitter). A lengthy Facebook post on a certain author should become a hit in short time. (The reading public don't have a clue about Brian Aldiss, but you could change it. A fan of his works might do a similar thing.) On the other hand, Instagram should provide visuals that would make the learning process more fun and interactive. It may be too visual, though. (Let's not discount the possibility of envy between you and your course mates.) Lastly, cyberbullying won't be far behind. Either you deal with it immediately or opt to keep a distance from social media. It might have its drawback.
You Can Make That Change
Technology would make you complacent, even rely too much on the Internet. Alas, it couldn't read your thoughts at all. If you're dealing with a math problem, then look at it over and over again. If you're still having a hard time, then approach your course mates. A study group would be the best option, where an exchange of opinion should help the so-called slow learners to pick up the pace. If it's a book, then concentrate on the first ten chapters and the last few (chapters). Read one or two in the middle if you only have limited time.
It may be too much to expect all teenagers to be mindful of others, even show consideration. There wouldn't be any other way, though. Try to have an open mind, as well as keep a generous spirit. It can go a long way, even if it's easier said. You can make new friends.
Social media must be off limits unless your instructor would encourage you (to use it). You can have fun, even enjoy the process. After all, this is what it's really all about. Don't get carried away, though.
