Technology's Negative Influence on Education
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Facebook

        At the top of the social world sits Facebook; which has become the main distraction for students across the nation. Not only is Facebook a social networking for college students but for adults and children of all ages now, which does not go good with the hasty growth of children becoming more and more older at a younger age. Facebook has become a constant thought in the majority's minds but Facebook has a greater effect than entertaining its host.
        In the following video, a leading neuroscientist goes in depth on the effects Facebook is truly having on society. She starts off by making a very strong claim that "Social networking sites are changing children's brains, resulting in selfish and attention deficient young people; and that the material children are learning are having no long term significance. Also, as a result of using Facebook and other social networking sites, The 21st century mind has a shorter attention span and craves instant sensation" (guardian). This video is very interesting and knowledgeable on how our brain is really affected by Facebook.

Jump Off!

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Jump Off the bandwagon!
        In another article, writers directly addressed Facebook titled "Get Off Facebook" and Do Something" addressing the effects of Facebook and what parents can do to make a change. In this article, it is pointed out that parents are worried that their children "are just not motivated to do anything; then going on to describe that children now play video games, fiddle with computers, and watch television" (Kazdin). They also went on to say, "that when one does not show much interest in anything or talk to anyone, and texting or Facebooking his life away seems like a pallid substitute" (Kazdin). Children do not have to continue to resort to technology for boredom and entertainment; parents can help their children overcome this sluggish characteristic.

        In the article, they directly address how parents can help children who have been sucked into a world of nothing but technology. First, they say, "to think motivation", in other words, do not continue to just nag your children to get off the computer, Xbox, or iPod, but take in consideration what could motivate one to get up and be productive. Second, parents need to set boundaries for technology usage, for example: set a guideline to have no iPods at the dinner table.  Third, after identifying a couple of interests to motivate your child, type up a list of those interests so that you can be reminded daily of things he could be doing and encourage him to participate in the functions. Last but not least, have expectations; do not take the time to do the first three steps without actually believing there will be progress. Expect your child to be active in other things than does not involve internet, game consoles, and texting.