Modern technologies have become an integral part of the life of any person. They enable people to do many useful things. These include communication, information retrieval, work issues, and other aspects of life. In particular, electronic devices and tools are a vital part of the educational process. Most of today’s high school and university students use phones and computers to do their homework or read textbooks. On the one hand, this has a positive effect on learning, as it makes it quick and convenient. On the other hand, this can lead to various problems, for example, an increase in Internet addiction or an irresponsible attitude towards studies. It is debatable whether the use of e-learning tools has increased in recent years. There is a significant increase in the importance of technology in the educational process, which can adversely affect the process.
Researchers often turn to this topic because it is crucial and affects the younger generation. One of the brightest examples of this topic’s work is an article by Bullen, Morgan, and Qayyum Digital learners in higher education: Generation is not the issue. The authors argue that, in fact, the level of use of modern technology among students remains the same as in the past. The research was carried out using group interviews with 69 students and a survey among 438 students. These people use a limited number of electronic means without experiencing addiction. They identified the most critical factors in the selection of devices and tools: their familiarity, cost, and immediacy (Bullen, Morgan, & Qayyum, 2011). Thus, the authors conclude that this problem is not acute and does not require increased attention from the older generation.
Indeed, it can be argued that some students use information and communication technologies rationally. This allows them to achieve specific goals: make presentations, search for information, do homework, or communicate with teachers. Unfortunately, however, the picture is not always so positive. Many modern adolescents have acquired Internet addiction at a young age (Rębisz, & Sikora, 2016). Because of this, they use their smartphones and computers not only for good educational purposes but also to spend time on social networks. Sometimes this can have a significant negative impact on their psyche and even lead to problems.
The pace of technology development shows that this trend continues to progress. Consequently, the level of dependence on modern technologies among young people will grow. Perhaps this will not lead to a deterioration in society’s state, but it will clearly become the basis for significant changes. In addition, due to specific global processes, people are forced to switch to an online learning format, which only enhances technology’s impact on the educational environment. Thus, it is necessary not only to protect students from the excessive influence of the Internet but also to adapt to the educational process.
In conclusion, it is necessary to emphasize the inseparability of the connection between education and information technology. They allow people to receive useful information in the most convenient way. Therefore, it is necessary to create different electronic interaction methods with students and support their aspirations for learning. Thanks to this, they will carry out the educational process most effectively and receive the greatest amount of knowledge. Thus, they will become proficient in their educational areas and in modern electronic tools and devices. This is a crucial part of the existence of any person in the future.
References
Bullen, M., Morgan, T., & Qayyum, A. (2011). Digital learners in higher education: Generation is not the issue. Canadian Journal of Learning and Technology, 37(1). Web.
Rębisz, S., & Sikora, I. (2016). Internet addiction in adolescents. Practice and Theory in Systems of Education, 11(3). Web.