Technology in Schools: Good or Bad?

Recent studies show children ages 8-18 are spending between 6-8 hours a day in front of screens (TV, video, games, smartphones, computers, etc.).  Given this rise in "screen time," whether or not schools should emphasize or de-emphasize the use of technology in the classroom has become controversial.  However, in his article "If Your Kids Are Awake, They're Probably Online," New York Times staff writer Tamar Lewin details the common usages of technology in youth.  Most of the kids Lewin interviewed use forms of technology recreationally or for leisure rather than education.  Janet Sepulveda states, "'I'd say [my son Francisco] uses it about 2 percent for homework and 98 percent for other stuff.'"

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Schools should incorporate the use of technology in the classroom.  As Lewin writes, media use is ubiquitous.  As a journalism student majoring in public relations, my professors emphasize the importance of utilizing all aspects of technology.  I've always considered myself as technology proficient; I have a Facebook profile, I'm constantly connected with my friends through texting, and I download music and videos from the web.  However, the first day of class, we were told we would be constructing a website, audio slideshow and short video.  I realized I had a false sense of security, and while I was proficient in some aspects of technology, I lacked education in many other areas.  Because society is exposed to and relies on technology in virtually everything, it's important to educate oneself and develop the ability to use technology, not just for recreational purposes, but to function and succeed in our developing society.  Schools have the ability to begin building the foundation for a stronger education in technology by incorporating technology use in the classroom.