Dealing With Digital Distractions
By Lynn Kang
Many students report feeling the need to learn how to deal with digital distractions because classes and assignments are increasingly done online with laptops and mobile devices . The advent of digital media applications has improved communication , social interaction , and time management .
All students now use digital devices for research ; however , they find themselves easily distracted by blinking notifications , private messages , viral videos , and flashy graphics on their computer screens .
New communication methods can shape friendships , alter studies , and sometimes create new avenues for online bullying . Digital devices can affect grades and behavior patterns . For example , a person could be open to people on her digital chat yet be very shy and timid about face-to-face talking .
Students are experiencing fewer face-to-face conversations . For example , body language is a common way to express feelings , intentions , and meaning . Using digital devices during class lectures and discussions could distract students .
Besides , students might rely on social media . Due to taking notes digitally in class , students will eventually lose the habit of writing . Students cannot think independently and think creatively since most of them would be able to get answers from the internet . If they continue using chat abbreviations , students would not be able to develop their writing skills . According to an article published on ehow . com , 50 % of the 1028 respondents felt texting harms students ’ writing and grammar . 20 % thought that text messaging might have some impacts but not a significant problem . 27 % felt that texting was not a negative influence .
8th grader Airi Iyama turns off her VPN to avoid social media . 8th grader Angela B Chen blocks gaming websites on her computer . 8th grader Moeka Kijima from Japan explained that she uses an app called “ Suma Yame ” to stop using her phone .
8th grader Sujin Kim came up with her idea of recording herself by phone while doing homework ; therefore , she would not use her phone .
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