Bobcats challenged to ditch tech

On Thursday, Hot Springs County High School Student Body President Tyler Cornwell and the senior class issued a challenge for students and staff to go the day without technology. The challenge was not so strict as to limit technology use entirely; if needed for school-related activity or emergencies, it was allowable.

Cornwell said the issue of cell phone usage in the schools was brought up in a meeting between teachers and Principal Scott Shoop. While use for in-class activity, such as researching an answer for a teacher, is allowed, Cornwell said concern was expressed as to just how out-of-hand it's getting; he typically doesn't use his own phone until his schoolwork is done.

What Shoop observed in the classrooms was "scary," said Cornwell. The observation mirrored the senior's own, being an assistant for substitute teacher Colin Herold. He said he feels like many of the kids are not engaged because they are too busy with text notifications or social media updates. He further observed this might be the reason students aren't doing as well as they should.

Another technological distraction can come from computers. Again, Cornwell said, it's up to the students to use these devices responsibly. "Multitasking is a myth," he said, and one that many think they can do, but distractions on the computer screen can quickly turn one's focus from more important schoolwork.

He might be typing away full steam on an important paper when a notification pops up, if even only for a second. That simple one- or two-second distraction can cause him to lose his place, or his concentration, resulting in a slower pace.

The distraction of technology is nothing new to the school, as Cornwell noted students had iPads his freshmen year, which were just as much an issue because of the ease of access to the app marketplace.

Cornwell added if he were in Shoop's place he might look at being a bit stricter with the technology use rules.

"I think the learning is being taken away from the students," he said, as there seems to be more late work being turned in and procrastination.

The teachers' point of view on the overuse of technology can be understood, Cornwell said. When he was a freshman, he didn't expect to be a senior so soon. Now that he's a senior, he's aware of the future responsibility that comes with being a college student. The teachers are trying to prepare them for that, and Thursday's challenge was a chance for students to see how to utilize their time better.

Cornwell is hopeful the challenge provides a renewed interest in classroom learning, and makes students aware of their habits.

Shoop said he doesn't want to put a cage around the school that completely limits students' use of technology, but rather teach responsible use of that technology.