Technology is the practical application of scientific knowledge. It is an undeniable fact that we live in the age of technology. Each day brings new breakthroughs in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and various other sectors, including health, education, agriculture, and banking. Technology has become an integral part of our lives, simplifying tasks that were once arduous in hospitals, schools, banks, farms, and places of worship.
Many schools have transitioned to using projectors for lectures, e-libraries for accessing materials online from the comfort of one’s room, and whiteboards with markers replacing the traditional blackboards and chalk.
Banks now rely on Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) for cash transactions and employ bulletproof doors to deter armed robbery. E-banking and online transactions are the norm.
Modern farmers and Agricultural Extension Officers utilize technology, such as tractors and mowers, to streamline their work on farmlands. Standard hospitals and medical labs employ technology for quicker diagnoses, with devices like glucometers to detect diabetes and x-rays for radiology, expediting medical tests.
Students now have access to devices that facilitate communication and aid in their studies. They can complete assignments using a mobile phone and perform calculations with ease.
It’s evident that nearly everyone has access to technology, and its advancement has profoundly impacted our way of life.
However, despite the benefits of technology, its misuse can pose significant risks, particularly to the academic success of our students. Addressing the misuse of technology is crucial to safeguard our nation’s future.
One of the most common technologies students have access to is the mobile phone, known as a handset. Even 12-year-olds now use mobile phones, sometimes sacrificing basic needs to obtain the latest models. This misplaced priority leads to students who should be dedicated to their studies becoming overly attached to their phones.
While having a cell phone as a student is not inherently bad, its misuse can be detrimental to their studies and careers. Here are a few ways students misuse this powerful device:
1. Using it for gaming and internet browsing during lectures, seminars, or worship services, instead of focusing on valuable learning opportunities.
2. Watching pornography, which can lead to unhealthy, sensual, or erotic feelings and even masturbation.
3. Downloading irrelevant or unnecessary applications.
4. Engaging in dishonest schemes to defraud people, such as online scams.
5. Wasting time on irrelevant or unnecessary chatting.
6. Using phones while walking on the street or driving, which can lead to accidents and is against traffic rules.
7. Using phones to engage in examination malpractices, which technology has made increasingly difficult to prevent.
The dangers of technology advancement and misuse include:
1. The rise in cybercrimes, such as cyber pornography, cybersex, cyberbullying, and other internet-related offenses.
2. A growing dependence on Google for answers, resulting in students relying less on their own problem-solving abilities.
3. Addiction to social media, diverting students from their studies and assignments.
Technology is not inherently evil. When used correctly, it’s a blessing, especially for students. Many students excel academically by conducting extensive research, accessing valuable materials, and connecting with mentors through technology. Some even use their devices to record lectures or seminars for later review.
Technology can be a tool to share meaningful and inspirational contents, rather than false information.
Technology becomes problematic when it’s used to deceive others instead of teaching and learning. In conclusion, technology is a gift meant to enhance our lives. It’s our responsibility to use it wisely. When misused, it can indeed become a force for evil.
Have you learned something new? It’s time to put that knowledge into action.
sunnysteve 