There is no denying that screen time has increased significantly in recent years. With the advent of new technology (Apple’s iOS platform, Google’s Android ecosystem and so on), it’s now possible to be connected to the internet and social media 24/7. This constant exposure to screens can have an impact on our learning. There are now hundreds of social media platforms. Facebook, Twitter and Instagram probably being the most popular, but there are still many others that have increased usage (e.g. such as those for the online gaming communities, Twitch, Discord etc.).
Some studies have shown that screen time can actually hinder learning. A 2017 study published in the journal Nature found that spending more than two hours a day on digital devices was linked to lower grades in reading, math, and science among children in first through eighth grade. The researchers suggested that too much screen time can lead to attention problems, sleep deprivation, and less time for physical activity, which can all negatively impact academic performance.
Other studies, however, suggest that screen time can actually help to learn. A 2018 study published in the journal Science found that students who used laptops in the class had better grades than those who didn’t. The researchers suggested that laptops can help students take notes more effectively and have access to educational resources like online lectures and articles.
So, what’s the verdict?
It seems that screen time can both help and hinder learning, depending on how it’s used. If you’re finding that your screen time is impacting your academic performance, it might be worth cutting back on your usage or finding ways to use technology more effectively. Alternatively, if you’re using technology in a way that enhances your learning, then there’s no need to cut back. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what works best for you.
Is the use of digital computing actually benefiting education?
It is difficult to ascertain as the studies seem to hold mixed reviews on the matter. However, it seems that if used in moderation and for the right reasons, digital computing in education can actually be beneficial. This article takes a look at both sides of the screen time argument for education.
On one hand, some researchers suggest too much screen time can lead to problems such as attention difficulties, sleep deprivation, and less time for physical activity – all of which take a toll on academic performance. A study published in Nature found that students who spend more than two hours a day on digital devices had lower grades in reading, math and science.
But on the other hand, other studies show screen time can help to learn. In fact, a study published in Science found that students who used laptops in the class had better grades than those who didn’t. Researchers believe laptops help students take notes more effectively and have access to online resources, such as lectures and articles.
So what should we make of all this screen time research for education? It appears there are pros and cons to the digital learning debate. While too much screen time can be detrimental, using technology judiciously – in moderation and for the right reasons – can actually benefit your academic performance.
How has screen time increased in recent years?
The increase in screen time can be accredited to advancements in technology. In the past, people would only be able to access the internet and social media through a desktop computer. Now, there are laptops, smartphones, and tablets that allow people to be connected 24/7. This constant exposure to screens can have an impact on our learning.
Some studies have shown that screen time can actually hinder learning. A 2017 study published in the journal Nature found that spending more than two hours a day on digital devices was linked to lower grades in reading, math, and science among children in first through eighth grade. The researchers suggested that too much screen time can lead to attention problems, sleep deprivation, and less time for physical activity, which can all negatively impact academic performance.
Other studies, however, suggest that screen time can actually help to learn. A 2018 study published in the journal Science found that students who used laptops in the class had better grades than those who didn’t. The researchers suggested that laptops can help students take notes more effectively and have access to educational resources like online lectures
