Disconnecting from the digital world takes the simple push of a power button; yet getting kids, and most adults, to actually push that button seems ever so challenging.
An article on bbc.com reveals that many parents struggle more with getting their kids off of devices than getting them to do homework, go to bed or have a bath.
A survey for the UK charity Action for Children found almost one in four mothers and fathers (23.1%) struggle to control their children’s screen use, but just 10% found it hard to get them to do their homework, while 17.5% struggled to get them off to bed.
Just under 5% found it difficult to get their offspring to have a bath.
The article also reported that the charity published a series of tips to help families reduce the amount of time children spend watching television and using screens. These tips included planning family activities that do not include technology and setting a time in which everyone in the household shuts off their devices.
The concern regarding young people’s overuse of technology is certainly warranted, as devices can serve as a distraction from participating in social activities and academic responsibilities. That being said, digital devices have also become a greatly relied upon tool for learning in both K-12 and higher education institutes.
Schools around the globe have implemented digital devices to help enhance education. BYOD and 1:1 programs have been adopted in various classrooms to provide students with opportunities to access online learning platforms, research, collaborate and create.
While it is unfair to say digital devices are a necessary part of education, it is difficult to deny that they have not opened a world of learning opportunities to students.
Web-based learning tools have become highly advanced, where a student’s personal progress is measured and their learning experiences personalized. In many cases, introducing technology in the classroom has kept students more engaged in learning, as they can actively participate and collaborate with others through the use of their personal devices.
While the benefits are obvious, devices in the classroom can cause the same distractions as they do at home. Students can easily navigate away from learning pages and onto social networks, blogs and websites.
Much like parents have to manage their child’s use of digital devices, educators need to manage their students’ use of devices as well. This includes enforcing rules, and even blocking websites that students may frequently distract students.
Ensuring that the use of technology supports learning goals is key. If it does not make sense for students to be on digital devices to learn about geography, then keep them stowed away for that lesson. Keeping in mind the purpose of education can help maintain a balance in classrooms.
To learn more about how to use digital devices to improve education, check out this guide.
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