Today’s world is heavily reliant on technology. Tech tools have a huge impact on our lives, from manufacturing and healthcare to communication and time management. Furthermore, it’s what enables UA Grantham students to succeed academically, wherever they may be.
Of course, there are always trade-offs, and when it seems like technology is taking over our lives, Let’s examine the advantages, disadvantages, and ugly aspects of modern technology and discuss how to avoid common pitfalls so that we can make the most of these resources.
The Positive
Despite being apart for various reasons, we can still communicate in real time with those who matter most, highlighting the importance of embracing the convenience of communication through various means.
Technology enables us to maintain our routines, such as work, communication, school, shopping, doctor appointments, playing games, and staying informed about current events, despite global changes.
Google’s product suite offers a comprehensive platform for writing, formatting, presenting, calculating, collaborating, reminding, and sharing, enabling easy learning, sharing, and creation in a global environment, enhancing the ease of learning and collaboration.
Technology enables students to access lectures, participate in discussion groups, complete assignments, and earn degrees from home, eliminating campus commutes and mail exams and improving efficiency by eliminating the need for campus visits.
The Negative
Technology offers numerous benefits, but excessive hyperconnectivity can lead to stress and exhaustion. It’s crucial to establish boundaries and promote mindfulness to allow for proper mental health. By focusing on work, studying, and catching up, we can better manage our time and ensure we’re giving ourselves the space and time we need to relax and recharge.
24/7 connectivity can lead to physical consequences such as eye strain, hand or wrist pain, sleep deprivation, text neck, Blackberry thumb, and other overuse injuries. It’s crucial to give your body a break and invest in long-term health, especially if you spend time on screens for work, entertainment, and school.
Digital education can increasethe risk of physical injuries for students, even in sedentary settings. To optimize study time, consider optimizing screen time. UA Grantham offers various student support services, including tutoring, advising, and technology help, to help students avoid excessive time spent in virtual spaces.
The Ugly
Virtual spaces present severe risks due to their anonymity and the feeling removed from the situation. This can lead to inappropriate conversations and potentially dangerous situations. The ability to share information quickly can create uncomfortable and dangerous situations. It’s crucial to give ourselves mindful space away from virtual environments and time to process painful feelings when they arise.
Cyberspace can lead to misinformation, bullying, and cyberattacks, causing anxiety, depression, addiction, and other mental health disorders. Social media has significantly impacted self-worth, success, and inclusion, impacting our real world. It’s crucial to be cautious about what we consume and avoid taking information at face value, as these effects can carry into our real worlds.
The Balance
To maintain a positive relationship with technology, set healthy boundaries. Charge your phone outside the bedroom, turn off devices during mealtimes or exercise, set time limits, and turn off notifications on mobile tech. Create clear boundaries for studying and breaks. Consider using analog tools, like handwritten notes, instead of online ones. Regularly check in with yourself to assess the benefits of technology and whether it is truly beneficial. If you’re pursuing an online degree at UA Grantham, take advantage of your dedicated student advisor’s one-on-one support to help manage technology and focus on personal goals. By doing so, you can maximize the benefits of technology without compromising your personal life.
