At The Federalist, Professor Laura Baxter explains eight ways in which smartphones and other connected technological devices are hurting students at college. Many of the ways these devices are hurting college students apply to all people. Baxter’s eight ways are:
- Screens Endanger Student Safety
- Screens Jeopardize Learning
- Screens Sabotage Social Life
- Screens Stunt Career Growth
- Screens Undermine Physical Health
- Screens Bust Budgets
- Screens Attack Mental Health
- Screens Corrupt Souls
She writes (abridged):
The noise from screens — whether good, bad, or neutral — drowns out the still, small voice of God. When we feel stressed, do we pause to think about why? Do we take the time to pray? Or do we distract ourselves with shiny, online spectacles?
New research shows that intermittent fasting from food is good for our health, helping to recalibrate important hormones such as insulin. Likewise, a fast from social media can benefit the soul.
Back-to-school season is a good time to take a hard look at device addiction and plan some changes for the new school year. If you or a student you know has a toxic relationship with tech, take steps to address it now. Don’t be afraid to ghost your phone and take back your life. Your professors, most of whom still remember life before the internet, are rooting for you.
Read more here.
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