by Mary Rose V. Ronquillo
Teacher III, Santo Tomas Elementary School
Calauan Sub-office, SDO Laguna
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Education and technology have always had a complex relationship, with the former often latched upon the latter to enhance the learning experience and improve academic outcomes. However, the impact of modern technologies on students’ emotional and cognitive engagement with their learning has been a subject of much debate and scholarly examination.
The impact of technology on students’ academic performance and mental health is one of the hottest topics in technology. There’s no doubting that students’ daily lives now revolve heavily around these technological devices. We have firsthand experience with the negative effects that technology has on students’ learning. As of right now, we may read in the newspapers, in the internet, or in recent researchers which discusses this topic about both the advantages and disadvantages of electronic devices for student learning.
Existing research has highlighted the multifaceted nature of student engagement in technology-mediated learning environments. While the potential benefits of integrating digital tools into the classroom are well-documented, such as increased motivation and improved learning outcomes, the same research also cautions against potential pitfalls. A key concern is the risk of it on learners’ mental health and academic progress.
Problems with mental health impact all aspects of student life. Reduced motivation and a lack of confidence when finishing projects or taking tests are caused by low self-esteem. Furthermore, excessive exposure to technology has been related to decreased attention spans, increased anxiety and depression, and other mental health concerns. Depression can cause a person to lose attention and concentration, which makes it difficult for a student to stay motivated or finish assignments on time. This directly impacts academic achievement. However, those are only a handful of the intricate difficulties that students deal with in order to balance their academic success and mental wellness.
This does not imply that all technology is harmful to student learning and mental health. Integrating technology in the right way can enhance the educational experience for both students and teachers. Nowadays, learners often find themselves immersed in a digital landscape that can both facilitated and hinder their engagement with academic tasks. This duality can be attributed to the complex interplay between the technological, pedagogical, and social components of the learning environment. These can significantly impact learners’ ability to maintain sustained focus, thoughtful reflection, and meaningful interactions with the contents of a specific subject.
Humanity has always benefited from the advancement of technology. Man has been mesmerized by the huge technological advancements, and everyone in the globe is currently enjoying the luxuries that technology has to offer. Nevertheless, it is critical that we carefully consider the drawbacks of heavy technology usage, particularly among young people who are still developing physically and psychologically. We now live in a global village because of the interconnection of all the countries made possible by technology. As educators, we should aim to leverage this technology to help students reach their full potential while also protecting their mental health.
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