Technology has transformed the world in various ways, both positive and negative. These innovations have been implemented within school environments as well, with laptop usage becoming required in almost every classroom. Digital assignments, online resources and even AI have become ingrained within modern education, but how do students navigate the use of technology in this way and does it bring more help or harm to their overall learning process?
Junior Brianny Rosado states that technology is “extremely helpful when simplifying difficult topics and checking my answers.” Her statement illustrates how many students use their devices to advance their understanding, thereby positively impacting their education as a whole.
Rosado also says that she “prefers digital assignments over written ones due to how user-friendly they are.” Technology caters to ease, a valuable asset to students under the crippling stress of schoolwork.
Similarly, AI emulates these accessible attributes of the digital resources students have had for years, however, at a much faster and grander scale. AI provides constant, immediate feedback, which can inhibit critical thinking skills within students. There is also the issue of academic dishonesty that AI has notoriously perpetuated.
Junior Sophia Nasieku notes that “AI is a useful tool for studying, whether I’m making practice sheets or study guides.”
Nasieku’s implementation of AI illustrates the sentiments that many students have; despite the possible nefarious uses of the model, it is ultimately beneficial to their learning as a whole.
Ultimately, technology remains an extremely powerful force in modern education, offering both convenience and opportunity. While tools like AI can risk weakening critical thinking, their benefits in accessibility and efficiency is undeniable. The responsibility lies with students to use these resources ethically and thoughtfully to enhance, not replace, genuine learning and intellectual growth in today’s classrooms.
