While the number of hours kids spend on electronic media were eye-opening it did not surprise me because I was already of the opinion they spend an unhealthy amount of time and focus on electronic media. The fact that the hours they spend watching "television" has gone down for the first time in a long time was actually deceiving because TV shows and movies are available on demand on tons of different smart devices and on computers and through your Wii now. Seems to me that nobody watches movies shown on t.v. anymore due to the fact you can virtually watch any movie you want at anytime wherever you want with today's technology.
We spoke the other day in class about how the kids would rather look at a blank computer screen than pay attention to their teacher. I do not think multitasking is a good strategy, especially when you are trying to learn something and interact with peers in the classroom. If I had my druthers iPods, cell phones, blackberries, and other electronic media devices would not be allowed in school or at least not in the classroom. I think this would improve my teaching by the simple fact the kids would be so bored they would have no choice but to involve themselves in the classroom and pay attention to me. Technology use by tweens today undoubtedly has negative effects on academic performance and we need to change the way we currently allow students to use these devices in school.
I am amused by your comment about students being so bored they have to pay attention! I agree with you about banning various forms of technology in the classroom to minimize distractions. However, if students are studying or working independently, I personally do not mind if they listen to music (without disturbing others) if it helps them to focus more effectively.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that any electronic media devices should not be allowed in the classroom. My fourth graders are allowed to bring their iPod or cell phone to school but once they enter the school the device have to be turned off and left in their locker. This is the school policy and is part of the rulebook that every student and parent have to sign in the beginning of the school year. If a student brings the electronic device into the classroom this device can and will be confiscated. At the end of the week the student can have it back in the presents of a parent and after a meeting with the principal. This policy has been very successful in our school.
ReplyDeleteI tend to agree with you on creating a "media-free" space in the classroom. Though the possibility that students will ever be so bored that they will find a lesson more interesting may be wishful thinking.
ReplyDeleteThere seem to be two camps on this topic: media-free zones vs. if you can't beat them, join them, where teachers are making an effort to incorporate Facebook and Twitter and the like into lessons.
jd