How Does Technology Affect Your Thinking?
People are constantly learning—whether for school, for work, or for other reasons. Technology can help. Never in history has it been so easy to access so much information, without having to leave your home or even get up from your chair.
However, many who make extensive use of technology find that they . . .
have difficulty concentrating while reading.
have trouble focusing on one task at a time.
become quickly bored in moments of solitude.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
READING
Some browse and scan material instead of patiently following an author’s train of thought.
Skim-reading is fine when you need to find a quick answer to a question. However, it can hinder comprehension when you need to consider a subject more deeply.
TO THINK ABOUT: How well are you able to read long passages of text? How can doing so improve your learning?—PROVERBS 18:15.
FOCUS
Some people assume that technology gives them the ability to perform two tasks at a time—for example, to text friends while studying. But when their attention is divided, they may not perform either task well, especially when both require concentration.
Focus requires self-discipline, but it is well worth the effort. “You make fewer mistakes and have less stress,” says a teenager named Grace. “I’ve learned that it’s better to concentrate on one thing at a time and avoid the distraction of multitasking.”
TO THINK ABOUT: Does multitasking interfere with your ability to comprehend and remember what you study?—PROVERBS 17:24.
SOLITUDE
Some people become uneasy when they are alone in quiet surroundings, and they turn to technology to fill the void. “I get bored within 15 minutes if I don’t check my phone or tablet or turn on the TV,” admits a woman named Olivia.
However, periods of solitude provide a valuable opportunity for deep thinking—an essential part of learning, not only for young people but also for adults.
TO THINK ABOUT: Are you able to use periods of solitude to your advantage?—1 TIMOTHY 4:15.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
EXAMINE YOUR USE OF TECHNOLOGY
In what ways could you use technology to enhance your thinking skills? What uses could interfere with your ability to concentrate and learn?
BIBLE PRINCIPLE: “Safeguard practical wisdom and thinking ability.”—PROVERBS 3:21.