During the COVID-19 pandemic, education systems worldwide rapidly shifted online. This transition led to an increased use of technology among children as their classes moved to virtual platforms. However, a recent report from the United Nations (UN) highlights a concerning issue: excessive use of technology can negatively impact children's academic performance.
The Impact of Technology on Education
The Global Education Monitoring (GEM) report emphasizes that while technology has become a crucial part of modern education, it also poses significant distractions. When children have easy access to smartphones and other devices, their focus can be diverted, leading to poorer academic outcomes. Despite this, only one in four countries have implemented bans on smartphones in schools.
Distractions and Learning
According to the report, mobile phones and computers can disrupt the learning environment both at school and at home. Research indicates that if a student's attention is diverted by technology, it can take up to 20 minutes for them to refocus on their studies. This constant distraction hinders their ability to learn effectively.
Limited Use of Technology for Education
The report suggests that technology should be used sparingly in educational settings and strictly for learning purposes. When students access non-educational websites, such as social media, it creates a noisy and disruptive classroom environment. Teachers face significant challenges managing these distractions while trying to maintain a productive learning atmosphere.
The Call for Focused Use of Technology
The UN's education department advises that technology in the classroom should be limited to educational activities. They point out that in wealthier countries, the classroom setup has evolved dramatically. Screens have replaced paper, and keyboards have taken the place of pens. While these changes reflect technological advancement, the core purpose of education should remain undisturbed.
Pandemic-Induced Changes and Their Consequences
The sudden shift to online education during the coronavirus pandemic brought about significant changes in how students learn. However, data reveals that increased use of technology has adversely affected students' academic performance. Excessive screen time and dependence on digital devices have made it harder for students to stay focused and perform well academically.
Conclusion
The UN's report serves as a crucial reminder for educators, parents, and policymakers to balance the benefits and drawbacks of technology in education. While digital tools offer incredible opportunities for learning, their overuse can lead to significant academic setbacks. It's essential to create environments where technology supports education rather than hinders it, ensuring that students can achieve their full potential.