Digital Distractions

Anna MujicaePathfinderPerspectives

Digital Distractions

Technology distracting in classrooms 

In the modern era, it is challenging to maintain students’ full attention during class hours due to the numerous distractions that interfere with learning and negatively affect students’ concentration. Many worries have been brought to light regarding how technologies like computers and cell phones may affect kids’ attentiveness in the classroom.

“Technology is a big distraction in schools specifically cell phones because many students tend to play games or other stuff and do not pay attention to their teachers,” said sophomore Jadyn Bosket.

The majority of high school and even middle school teachers are constantly fighting for students’ attention in the classroom with smartphones and other gadgets. While the teacher gives instructions, students find methods to text, browse the web, and post on social media. They conceal their technology in their lap, a hoodie pocket, or even an exposed backpack pocket. As a result, they spend the majority of the time in the classroom just partially present.

“When students use their devices to distract themselves, not only are they not learning but are tending to fail the class because they are not paying attention and learning about the subject,” said senior Blancaestela Rivera.

In addition, when the use of electronic devices is allowed in class, performance was also poorer for students who did not use devices as well as for those who did.

During lectures, using a certain technological device diminishes attention span and subsequently affects memory. Learning is significantly diminished when there is a pronounced text message distraction. Nomophobia, according to oneself, hinders learning. The impacts of cellphone use become most noticeable 15 to 20 minutes into the lesson. Technology is beneficial for a classroom in many ways, yet the negatives outweigh the positives.


Written by Anna Mujica | Graphic Designed by Anna Mujica