Week 5 - Jane Kwak

Over the last few years, technology has made drastic advancements.  These advancements have been implemented into schools, because technology is believed to help children learn efficiently.  Unfortunately, the use of technology in schools may be more harmful than helpful for our children.  In the articles, “Is Wi-Fi in Schools Safe?” and “Wi-Fi in Schools,” the damaging effects of Wi-Fi in schools are emphasized.  In “Is Wi-Fi in Schools Safe,” Spero talked about how electromagnetic fields, a form of radiation from electrical power, damage our body on a cellular and molecular level.  Children are especially susceptible to this damage, because they are still in their developmental stages.  In “Wi-Fi in Schools,” Russell mentions that many countries, such as France and Russia, have already taken steps to minimize the use of Wi-Fi in schools. 

I agree that advancements in technology can be harmful for children.  Not only are the electromagnetic fields from the Wi-Fi and devices dangerous, the time we spend on these devices is also dangerous.  Throughout the day, we spend tremendous amounts of time on the Internet, especially now that we have smart phones.  This ties back into last week’s readings where we need to be more connected with the Earth.  People are too connected to their source of Internet that they do not take the time to appreciate what the Earth has to offer.  This disconnect from nature as well as personal relationships is growing.  Unfortunately, this is also beginning at a young age.  It is common to see a young child with an iPhone, completely immersed in the game or show on the little screen in their hand.  Parents give them this device to keep them busy or entertained instead of teaching their children to appreciate what they might have around them.  In a learning capacity, some children are required to complete assignments on their computer.  I believe that this requirement will be detrimental in the long run, because there is a big chance that children will be lost without Wi-Fi or their devices.  The United States is rather technologically advanced while other countries are not.  It makes me wonder if people in other countries will accept these advances with open arms or approach them with caution. 

References:

Russell, Cindy. “Wi-Fi in Schools: Are We Playing It Safe With Our Kids?” The Bulletin. 2015.

Spero, Brian. “Is Wi-Fi in Schols Safe?” Boston Parents Paper.  

Visual:

https://www.jtcjournal.com/arts-entertainment/2012/03/13/is-technology-taking-over-the-world/