Technology and its Role in Education

Is it really better for children to be spending more time on their devices?

Image of man laying down surrounded by electronic devices. Image by Ola Dapo

The term “screenager” is used to describe teenagers who have their eyes constantly glued to their devices. Before the invention of the mobile device, adolescents that constantly had a novel in their hand were deemed “book worms”.

Reading a book used to always be considered good for the mind and soul, but what about when that book is actually on a Kindle or an iPhone?

The prominence of a new generation of “iPad Kids” has sparked debate on whether or not staring into the void of a screen is actually beneficial for the social and intellectual development of children. While there can be physical detriments to the eyes from absorbing blue light, all that has really changed with the eminence of handheld devices is the medium in which information is consumed, not the content.

What are the physical effects of frequent use of devices? What about the psychological effects?

When we think about the effects of technology on the mind and body, an image that may come to mind is a person, in the dark, hunched over a desk. The term “text neck” is used to describe the position that many individuals assume to message each other.

Image of electronic devices neatly arranged. Image by fauxels

You may have also heard that technology encourages sedentary behavior, that is, engaging in activities while seated. Additionally, looking at a screen for long periods of time may cause strain on the eyes. It is important to note the distinction between the strain caused by focusing for long periods of time and due to blue light, which stimulates brain activity. The addictive design of many applications may contribute to extended use, which will then cause further eye focus and brain stimulation.

These physical effects may lead to further psychological phenomena. Technology was meant to bring people together, but studies have also shown that it may cause isolation. It is a wonderful thing to be able to stay connected to loved ones who are thousands of miles away and form new connections with individuals one may not have ever encountered before. But, excessive use of technology can cause individuals to spend the majority of their time in the digital world.

Should we really be using more technology in the educational realm?

Photo of student working in front of a computer. Image by Julia M Cameron

As with many tools, they can be extremely helpful when used in the correct context, with appropriate boundaries. Personally, I have found that the ability to quickly search through a document to find a particular formula or conduct a simple search to find a synonym has been invaluable to both my education and productivity. Yet, I understand that if I relied entirely on such resources, I would be incapable of generating my own ideas or solving problems without relying on the crutch of the Internet.

It is particularly important to note the role of technology for elementary school students, as it requires more attention to ensure the balance between in-person interactions and learning on screens. This being said, technology has largely helped to replace paper-based educational tactics.

Do the benefits of technology outweigh the costs? Increased accessibility to information may decrease the reliance of students on their peers and teachers. The ability to connect asynchronously may decrease the amount of face-to-face interaction. But, with the appropriate boundaries (screen time limits, rules on using external resources to support original work), technology may streamline both the flow of information and its retention. Devices may be used as a supplement to the classroom, not a replacement for it.

In Conclusion 

As new technology is developed, it is necessary to determine how it may appropriately be used in conjunction with the existing tools. There is a personal aspect of the educational experience that cannot be replicated by automated programs. Frenalytics software is another use of technology in the classroom, and is meant mainly to aid teachers. Just as it was perhaps once considered revolutionary to use a calculator instead of simple pen-and-paper by hand, it may seem absurd to bring mobile applications into the classroom. Eventually, it may seem absurd that we ever questioned the role of technology in the classroom.

Does Frenalytics perpetuate the use of technology in the classroom?

The Frenalytics software provides a quick and standardized way to measure the progress of a student. It is not meant to replace the role of an educator. The support and affirmation of an individual that a student has a connection to is invaluable and irreplaceable. Frenalytics software provides means of measurement and is a tool that is used in conjunction with other educational measures.

Engage Your Mind with Frenalytics™ – signup for a free trial, or call (516) 399-7170 to learn more.