Teaching children to rely on tech tools for learning can be detrimental. Learn why and what to do about it in this guide!
by Ivy Locke
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Although many experts assert that technology has brought nothing but positive advancements to the educational sector, some are not so sure. In an article written by Kevin Bushweller for Education Week, he discusses 25 specific “stupid uses for technology,” according to educators.
Whether your kids are in public, private, or homeschool, this is “need to know” information. According to experts, these technologies may actually be undermining your children’s educational growth. With that said, let’s discuss them and my ideas on how to limit tech use among your own kids.
About the List
Let’s discuss the types of technology on the list without going into too much detail. One of the top things that concerned me was the claim that the constant use of Chromebooks is detrimental to developing basic elementary foundation skills. This is because most students are using Chromebooks in some capacity, and these types of technology are becoming more and more intricately involved in even younger students’ daily instruction.
However, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. The article also slams common tech tools such as:
- Virtual reality
- Message boards
- Online learning
- 1-to-1 computer programs
- iPads
- Virtual teaching
- Smartboards
- Cellphones
- Live grade books
- Videos
- Cyber/virtual tutoring
- And more…
To be clear, the authors and educators that contributed to this list are not anti-tech. Instead, they are very much against the overuse of technology and how it can impede the development of young impressionable minds. Before you go on a mission to ban all of these tech tools globally, I want to point out that most of these can be very valuable when used in moderation. With that said, I also have some ideas about what parents can do to counteract the widespread overuse of these tools.
Tech Detox
To counteract the overuse of technology in school, make your children’s lives less technological at home. For example, this could involve only letting your children use certain types of technology (i.e., video games) on weekends or specific days of the week. It may sound complicated, but children are resilient and can acclimate to virtually anything as long as they understand the benefits of doing so.
Speak to Their Teacher
All parents have rights regarding their children’s education; never let anyone tell you anything different. If you have concerns about your child’s educational progress, you can request a meeting to find out how your child is interacting with technology and what can be done to limit the amount of tech they’re exposed to daily.
Homeschool
This option is only ideal for some parents, but if you have the time and patience, you can take charge of your child’s education by homeschooling them. This will allow you to incorporate technology however you wish without needing to negotiate with teachers to do so.
In Conclusion
Overall, technology can be a great way to enhance learning. However, teaching children to rely on technology for learning can be detrimental. Use this article as a foundation to better understand which types of technology may be harmful and create a plan to help limit toxic tech to allow them to learn the skills needed to excel in life.