Toñi Legidos

Upper School Teacher
Upper School Digital Leader

ELIS Villamartín

 

Balance in the Use of Technology in the Classroom

Is it necessary to rethink the use of technology in teaching? This question has gained significance in the educational field, to the point that some political and educational bodies have banned devices such as mobile phones in schools. However, in an increasingly digitalised world, the question arises whether this is the best solution.

Technological tools, such as tablets, computers and smartphones, have transformed the way students learn and teachers teach. However, it is crucial to balance the benefits of using these devices with the potential negative effects that their overuse can generate.

 

Risks of Excessive Use of Digital Devices

While technology offers numerous benefits, excessive use in the classroom can lead to certain risks:

  • Decreased concentration: Continuous use of screens can reduce students’ ability to concentrate. Constant exposure to the internet and social media during study time may lower their academic performance.
  • Social isolation: Although technology facilitates collaboration, some students may prefer virtual interaction over face-to-face relationships, impacting their social skills.
  • Health issues: Prolonged use of devices can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, vision problems, sleep disorders and may affect emotional wellbeing, causing stress and anxiety.
  • Digital divide: Not all students have equal access to technology or the skills to use it. This creates a digital divide that exacerbates educational inequalities.

 

Strategies for a Balanced Use of Digital Devices

To take advantage of the benefits of technology without falling into its risks, it is essential to apply certain strategies:

  • Planned integration: Teachers should design balanced teaching strategies that combine digital activities with traditional teaching methods. Technology should complement and enrich learning but never completely replace traditional approaches such as reading or classroom discussions.
  • Limiting screen time: Setting limits on device usage is key to avoiding overexposure. It is not necessary to use technology in every lesson nor for every homework assignment.
  • Encouraging critical thinking: Students must learn to evaluate the quality of the information they consume. Teachers and parents have the responsibility to teach them critical thinking and digital literacy skills, helping them discern between reliable sources and misinformation.
  • Digital wellbeing education: Schools should promote digital wellbeing by teaching students how to maintain a healthy relationship with technology. This includes managing screen time, preventing cyberbullying and fostering emotional self-care. In our schools, we support this approach through the Common Sense Digital Citizenship programme.
  • Accessibility: To ensure that all students benefit from technology, schools need to implement policies that guarantee equitable access to devices and internet connectivity.

 

A Collective Effort

Achieving a balance in the use of technology in education is a joint task that involves the entire educational community: schools, teachers, and families. Technology has enormous potential to enrich learning, but it must be used in a planned and controlled way to ensure an inclusive, healthy and productive educational environment. Only then can our students acquire not only academic knowledge but also the digital skills they will need to face the challenges of a future increasingly influenced by technology, data and artificial intelligence.