Image from morguefile,com |
Introduction
The use of digital devices is so commonplace today that it is easy to not notice the effect they have on us as humans.
As much as you may feel our technology is "a part of us," it really isn't. Even though we may see a lot of our technology as "an extension of ourselves," it can have a negative impact on our mental well-being and physical health.
Additionally, when technology distracts us it can have terrible results, from horrific vehicle accidents to damaging our relationships with other people.
Watch the video below and answer the questions. Most of the answers will be based on your own personal experiences and viewpoint, so please take the questions seriously and answer them honestly. They will be part of your evaluation.
The video below looks at how technology is changing the way we learn and how we use our brains. Make sure to carefully answer the questions. If you are not sure of the answer, then watch the section again before answering.
The video below looks at the effects social media has on young people. Make sure to carefully answer the questions and remember to be honest.
The video below looks at what happens when we are distracted by technology.
Bonus: There is only one question.
Assignment: The Pledge
Considering the videos you watched today and the questions you answered, consider what are some things you can do to help stay healthy and safe when using technology.
What are some ways that technology can have a negative impact on our health, well-being and safety. Consider: sleep time, too much screen time, not enough time outside and/or not enough physical activity, negativity, stress, distraction, trouble paying attention or concentrating, etc.
Here is an example of a pledge:
I pledge to track my time on my smartphone as I limit my time to two hours per day and not use my phone before I go to bed.
What are some ways that technology can have a negative impact on our health, well-being and safety. Consider: sleep time, too much screen time, not enough time outside and/or not enough physical activity, negativity, stress, distraction, trouble paying attention or concentrating, etc.
- You are going to come up with five pledges or promises that you think are realistic for you and will keep you healthier for longer and use technology more responsibly.
- Note: If you want to cut back on screen time and/or create better usage habits there are different apps available such as Productive (iPhone) or QualityTime (Android).
- Below is the graphic you will use to place your five pledges on.
- Download the graphic (see below) and upload them to Google Drawings in your Google Drive (or copy and paste)
- You will then type your pledge on the graphic in Google Drawings.
- When you have completed the assignment using Google Drawings, share the assignment with your teacher through Google Drive.
- Title the assignment "Assignment: The Pledge (Include your name in the title)"
Here is an example of a pledge:
I pledge to track my time on my smartphone as I limit my time to two hours per day and not use my phone before I go to bed.
Graphic for Assignment: The Pledge
From: https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2014/05/07/19/30/scroll-339852_960_720.png
Journal Entry #5 (Digital Wellness)
Consider the following questions when completing your journal entry in your Google Document titled "Journal Entries BBT." Subtitle it "Journal #5: Digital Wellness".
- Did you ever consider how technology can have a negative effect on your health and wellness? Explain.
- What activities can you do to step away from technology and connect with other people and also activities that require you to concentrate and stay focused?
- What do you think is the biggest issue for young people when it comes to Digital Wellness. Explain. Place your answer to this last question in bold.