| High School today is modern and tech-savvy. More often I open laptops instead of textbooks and type in documents instead of writing on paper. In some cases, this can be a good thing, having instant access to the entire internet for various sources of information at just a click away. Having this technology does a great job at connecting high school students to the real world. Educational websites can also make learning more engaging and fun by having games and quizzes that incorporate the topic the students are trying to learn. This modern education system also is helpful to students who miss school and are able to upload assignments from home. Finally, computers and devices can boost productivity in a classroom. Teachers can keep due dates on sites like Google Classroom and upcoming events so students don’t forget and online books given to students aren’t able to get lost, performing as a huge time and effort saver for both parties. On the other side, this modern education system has quite a few downsides. Using computers and other devices can lead to physical strain like head and neck aches as well as mental issues like depression and anxiety. Another downfall is the easy accessibility of the internet. Students can easily use multiple sources to cheat and plagiarize work and it can distract them from learning. Websites used can also include misinformation that could negatively affect their work quality. This dependence on the technology being used and misused can stray students from using their creativity and original thinking. Looking back at 2020 and the extreme use of technology, it is also helpful to note how dependency on technology can take away a lot from the learning environment. Students have more trouble focusing on the assignments and there was a noticeable gap in grades in contrast to the years before. The social aspect is crucial for students to have in person much more than on an online website. In the end, Highschool today has become very developed whether for the worse or better. Technology expands students’ access and connection to the world while giving fun ways to learn. However, this privilege can be easily abused with cheating and copying. Either way, you look at it, the internet has been very influential on students today. |
