The use of smartphones is creating dumb students. That’s the claim of some. Research conducted by Exploding Topics in 2023 states smartphones used in the classroom cause negative effects on student learning. When students use their devices during class it hurts their academic performance. However, many schools are now requiring phones to be set aside, or kept in a locker, or a bin at the door before students enter the classroom. The reason this finally came about is because the phones were disruptive. They distracted students’ attention during the lesson.
Dumb Students or Smart Students
University of Cincinnati social/behavioral expert Anthony Chemero believes there is no scientific evidence proving that digital technology or smartphones negatively affect cognitive abilities. Instead, he argues that the digital age does not make students less intelligent. Using a smartphone can help free up the brain’s energy to focus on other tasks.
The use of technology has allowed students to have a backup for remembering things, storing information, performing calculations, and navigating. Technology has become an integral part of their daily routine and plays a role in enhancing their intelligence. It also helps students stay up-to-date with current events happening around the world. Through social networking, students can share information and listen to the opinions of others. Phones allow students to mentally think and learn effectively.
Too Much Time
Our students’ intelligence is being impacted by several factors. Regrettably, students are excessively using their phones for non-school-related activities such as texting and gaming, which consumes a significant amount of their time.
It’s easy to blame smartphones. Many funds for school budgets have been misappropriated, and budget cuts hurt many school programs. Schools have limited supplies, and politics have negatively impacted schools with banned books and LGBTQ rights. There is also an increase in immigration and ESL students, which makes overall test scores low.
Classroom phone use is often restricted by schools, so students must restrict their phone usage outside of class. However, technology is not all that bad. There are exciting journeys through the use of technology.
It’s easy to blame smartphones and say students are dumb. A balance is needed. Students need to be active and connect with others offline. Students are not dumbed down because of technology.
