Our class had a great opportunity today to listen to a presentation from Jesse Miller about safe technology use and social media. The topic of technology use and social media has grown exponentially in recent years as technological advances continue to grow. With an increase of conversations around this topic, so comes an increase in the controversy surrounding it. To put it simply, we can ask ourselves the question: Is social media and technology bad or good? The short answer is that it depends, so let’s take a closer look at both sides of the argument.
Miller’s presentation gave a great outline of the dangers of using social media. I definitely agree with him that people need to be weary of what they post online. Whatever we post on the internet creates our digital footprint that can be accessed by virtually anyone. He provided examples of employees running the risk of losing jobs because of irresponsible internet behaviour. I think that these are all valid points, and that the internet and technology can be a dangerous liability if not used correctly. I also feel like it does take away from some of the other joys of life, such as playing outside and enjoying nature. I often talk with my peers about how when we were children, we would be biking to each other’s houses or running around the neighborhood being active. Now I see many kids at that age in front of iPads, smartphones and computer screens.
But even though there are a lot of things to be careful around when using technology, I can agree with Miller that it is something that has greatly benefitted the way we live our lives. Many utilities have been condensed into a single, palm-sized device with abilities to make phone calls, keep time, send instant messages, conduct internet searches, and much more. Technology also provides us with platforms to share our works and instantly connect with one another. It offers the convenience that we just didn’t used to have.
Now, where it gets tricky is who should be using technology and social media. I definitely do not think that it is for everyone, at least some aspects of it. There is a reason age restrictions on apps and websites exist, but children can easily lie about their age and gain access to platforms that they probably shouldn’t be using. This can lead to them becoming vulnerable on the internet, and we’ve already heard so many stories of children developing internet “relationships” that quickly spiral into much more grave issues. I think as educators it is our responsibility to guide students and youths on how to safely navigate their time on the internet.
Personally, I believe smartphones should not be given to children under a certain age, but that is something I do not control; their parents do. Something I can do, however is teach them how to smartly use their devices and help them move away from that addiction. I really liked the 20-20-20 rule that Miller talked about in his presentation, and it might be something that I will consider using in my future classroom. This model uses 20 minutes of education with short 3 or 4 minute breaks in between for students to have free time to go on their devices if they wish. This can act as a collective class privilege that can be effective in deterring students from using their phones during class time.
So, at the end of the day, I wouldn’t say I am either for or against technology, but I can definitely say that I want to make it my goal to ensure that the people around me know of all of its great possibilities and dangers.