When danger lurks in untamed internet use among learners

If the use of the internet and electronic gadgets among high school students goes untamed, it might deter learning rather than enhance it. [iStockphoto]

Advancement in technology has brought in its wake myriad benefits. It's apparent that we are on the verge of a new digital era where almost everything is done virtually.

In the education sector, technology has enhanced access to information, which is at our disposal at the touch of a button. When the Covid-19 pandemic plunged our country into unprecedented plight, learning in most of the higher learning institutions was uninterrupted, thanks to advanced technology.

On the flipside, technology has proved detrimental to learning among teenagers in high school. Where students are not restricted in using their phones and laptops, most of them will admit that they spend their time on these gadgets. More time is used for watching movies, comedies, reels, memes and other inexhaustible content available on the internet.

Considering this, the fact that students use more time on entertainment than on academics is laid bare. When I was an undergraduate student a few months ago, I was not an exception. I would end up using only 40 minutes to study and do research out of the two hours I would be allotted for me in the e-library. The rest vanished into the woods of entertainment no matter how much I tried to focus on studying. My experience unveils the fact that learning through the internet presents some difficulties as concentration on academics is bound to fade at the sight of electronic gadgets and devices.

It's much more difficult for high school students, who harbour curious and explorative thoughts, to maintain focus while using the internet. The internet is awash with explicit content that might easily captivate gullible students. This certainly compels them to deviate from academic study to the thought-provoking content. When young minds consume some of this unscrupulous content, their morals become corrupted and perception distorted. They learn the existence of uncouth practices like the LGBTQ+ which is highly frowned upon in normal society.

These students are baffled at the sight of netizens in elegant outfits. They start admiring such lifestyles, which in most cases are fictitious. The pressure to be at par with the stunning netizens starts piling and they end up living dissatisfied lives. Also, high school students revere chatting. This practice translates to time wastage since the subject matter is rarely related to academics. Nonetheless, students may use texting to enhance communication with their 'lovers'. This will only fortify the illicit relationships that may have far-reaching consequences.

If the use of the internet and electronic gadgets among high school students goes untamed, it might deter learning rather than enhance it. It will only serve to distract learning and change the trajectory of the thoughts of these growing minds. During these holidays, let students be encouraged to embrace the use of hard-copy materials. While in school, let them use the best learning resource -teachers. If they must use the internet, then they should be confined by strict patronisation.

Mr. Kamau is a teacher in Murang'a County