Edition: May 8th, 2021
Curated by the Knowledge Team of ICS Career GPS
Excerpts from article published on teamkano.medium.com
There is an ongoing debate in society about how the use of computers, tablets, and mobile devices affects our lives. There are two types of people in the world: screen time haters and screen time lovers.
Some say too much screen time is the enemy. Others say it’s not so bad since technology has in fact led to better accessibility to education, enhanced connectivity, and improved productivity in the workplace.
However, there are distinct disadvantages too. We have entered a new era of technology, increasing our screen time to unhealthy levels, say experts. This has led to people being less active and less social than ever, they say.
Also, it’s true that kids who spend too long in front of screens may be at risk of becoming disillusioned, easily distracted, socially isolated, and lacking in empathy.
Despite that, not all screen-time is bad.
Here are both the perspectives – good and bad. Take a look and then decide whether your extra screen time is healthy for you or not.
Why extra screen time is bad for you
A TV, smartphone, computer, tablet, etc., is probably at least 20 centimeters from you right now. Today, these devices are everywhere and – like it or not – they are now an essential item. Here are some reasons why extra screen time can be harmful:
- Multiple studies have shown that excessive screen time can impair brain development or even lead to long-lasting behavioural and emotional problems in adults.
- Excessive screen time also affects your sleep and cognitive ability, thus, increasing your chance of obesity and other health issues.
- Children who spend more than an hour a day in front of a screen are more likely to get nearsighted, according to a National Institutes of Health (NIH) study in 2018.
- This study also showed data proving a link between excessive screen time and scoring lower in education exams, and thinning areas of the brain’s cortex.
Why extra screen time is good
Overconsumption is dangerous but that doesn’t mean the device itself is the danger. If you are like people from many countries around the world, you are spending up to eight hours (or more) a day on screens. But don’t worry. Experts tell us that screen time is not really bad for you. Here’s a look at some of the reasons why extra screen time can be beneficial!
- We use computers to send emails, surf the internet, check the social media, read news, share pictures, talk to our families through video conferencing, and so much more!
- Especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, screen time has become an extended normality. At times, we even forget just how beneficial screens are for education, entertainment and so much else.
- Technology is a great way to study and communicate, both inside and outside the classroom.
- Whether you are using YouTube to learn, or training your brain with the millions of apps available, your education is definitely being facilitated through a technological device.
- Technology is a great way to learn something new or meet new people. Your computer or mobile can be a vehicle for change. It can be used as your destination or as a tool to make day-to-day tasks easier.
Humans have invented technological hardware that is saving lives and changing the world, today. How we use it will define us.
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in the article mentioned above are those of the author(s). They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of ICS Career GPS or its staff.)
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