As an educator, I often feel pressured to incorporate technology into my lessons. This includes assigning tasks that require the use of smartphones, applications, and various digital tools. Educators who effectively engage students with these methods often receive accolades for their innovative teaching approaches. I’ve been recognized in this way myself.
However, my perspective has shifted recently. I believe one of the major challenges facing students, especially in middle school, is their dependence on smartphones. This dependency leads to numerous behavioral issues, and substantial evidence highlights the detrimental effects these devices have on mental well-being.
Students will inevitably learn to navigate phones and tablets independently, unlike previous generations who had limited access. Perhaps if we reconsidered our reliance on technology in classrooms, students might experience deeper learning and enhanced happiness during their school years.
This topic is super intriguing! Have any of you ever thought about how much students themselves actually want tech in their learning? It would be interesting to hear from them directly! Sure, tech can offer cool, interactive ways to learn, but maybe some students prefer old-school hands-on activities or simply reading a book? And what about how tech has changed social interactions? Is there a lasting impact on friendships and face-to-face communication skills? 
It’s like, if we’re continually updating teaching methods, shouldn’t students’ voices guide some of those decisions too? Just curious about what you all think! 