Technological expansion is causing many schools to increase the use of electronics in education, but with teens spending the majority of their day using technology, there has to be a separation between cyberspace and education to optimize student performance and growth.

The increased usage of technology in classrooms causes many negative effects on students. Integrating a greater amount of technology in education can lead to a drop-in academics and retention of knowledge.

When compared to countries who have a low usage of technology in education, such as Korea and China, the United States showed a decrease in academic scores.

According to a report published by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), countries who invest heavily on technology for education have seen no improvements on test scores compared to countries who do not. The report also showed a drop-in test scores from 2000 to 2012 compared to countries who have little use of technology in education.

Most people think that technology will put our country forward, but it is instead placing the US behind other nations.

Technology also negatively affects the amount of knowledge retained by students. Using print/handwritten materials makes it easier to remember information learned.

According to a study by Princeton University and the University of California Los Angeles, students who take handwritten notes retain more information and perform better on tests, compared to those who take typed notes.

An increase in technology causes students to waste their time if they do not retain knowledge learned every day.

Rapid developments in technology also add to school expenses. Upgrading equipment is not only costly, but requires time for frequent updates and versions of software.

According to Teachthought.com, “Upgrading equipment is often costly and schools may not have the manpower to handle the equipment. Likewise, new hires may be necessary for teaching students how to use the newer digital media, yet another expense to the school…if a student is required to do homework using the tablet, their parents may not be able to help them with any questions they may have if they are not familiar with the software or equipment.”

Spending money on something that harms students and schools is not worth it. School budgets should rather be spent on more necessary items, such as air conditioners/heaters or security measures.

Not only is technology costly, but it can also harm student health.

According to Miller Vision Specialties, a team of ophthalmologists located in North Carolina, “Staring at a screen for a few hours a day can cause visual discomfort and interfere with your child’s ability to focus. Although regular use of digital devices won’t damage vision, extended use of technology at school or for homework can lead to a temporary vision condition called computer vision syndrome (CVS).”

Education is supposed to help students, but increased technology use is negating that affect.

Even though technology may make it easier to connect with others and make classes quicker, it is not as fulfilling, as students do not get as much out of technological education, as they do with traditional means.

The usage of technology in education should be rethought, as it more harmful than helpful to students.