Our kids are experiencing tech burnout. How can we help them find a balance? Let’s discuss.
I LOVE technology. I am one of those people who would be first in line for a chip implant (probably!) but I understand its limitations, as well. Technology has become an integral part of education, transforming the way students learn, interact, and engage with information.
Tech burnout, traditionally associated with the workforce, is now a growing concern among students of all ages. One of the most pressing issues that has emerged is tech burnout in students. The constant exposure to screens, the pressure to be perpetually connected, and the lack of balance between online and offline activities are taking a toll on students’ physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Today, I want to delve into the reasons behind tech burnout in students induced by excessive technology use. I hope to highlight factors that lead to tech burnout and discuss strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of technology on students, fostering a healthier, more balanced approach to digital learning.
I. Excessive Screen Time & Tech Burnout
One of the biggest reasons for tech burnout in students is excessive screen time. The pervasive presence of screens in students’ daily lives has become a double-edged sword. While technology has made learning more accessible and engaging, the downside is an overwhelming amount of screen time. This excessive exposure can have significant repercussions on both physical and mental health, contributing to student burnout.
1. Impact on Physical Health
One of the most immediate and noticeable effects of excessive screen time is its impact on physical health. Students spending long hours in front of computers, tablets, and smartphones often experience eye strain, also known as digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome. Symptoms include dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches, and even long-term vision problems. I teach Health and we talk about this in class. Most of my students admit to feeling these symptoms and it’s important for them to take breaks.
Moreover, prolonged screen time can lead to poor posture. The tendency to hunch over devices can result in back, neck, and shoulder pain, which, if unaddressed, might lead to chronic musculoskeletal issues. According to the American Optometric Association, digital eye strain affects more than 50% of computer users, which includes students who rely heavily on screens for their education.
2. Mental Health Concerns
Tech burnout has implications beyond physical health. Excessive screen time can also have a detrimental impact on mental well-being. Continuous exposure to screens, particularly before bedtime, disrupts sleep patterns. According to The Sleep Foundation, blue light emitted by screens interferes with the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep, making it harder for students to fall asleep and enjoy restful, restorative sleep. This lack of quality sleep can lead to increased anxiety, stress, and even depression – compounding problems students already experience in school.
Additionally, the constant bombardment of information and the pressure to stay connected can cause tech burnout in students. They may feel overwhelmed by the never-ending stream of notifications, emails, and online assignments, leading to burnout. A study by the Pew Research Center found that around 40% of teens feel they spend too much time on their cellphones, and 40% feel overwhelmed by the drama on social media.
3. Statistics
To fully understand the magnitude of this issue, it’s crucial to look at the data. Studies show that students now spend an average of 7-8 hours per day on screens, far exceeding the recommended limits. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that children aged 6 years and older should have consistent limits on the time spent using media, emphasizing the importance of balance and ensuring that screen time does not interfere with adequate sleep, physical activity, and other behaviors essential to health.
Thoughts: Excessive Screen Time & Tech Burnout in Students
Excessive screen time is a significant factor contributing to tech burnout. The physical health implications, combined with mental health concerns, paint a concerning picture of the current educational landscape.
I took my students to the Huntington Library last year. My students struggled so much walking, and not just one student! At least half were so tired after the first hour. When we talked about it, they said it was because they usually sit and home and play games or play on their phones. These students were juniors and seniors in high school. I felt sad that they were so out of shape at such a young age.
By recognizing the signs of tech burnout and implementing strategies to mitigate its effects, we can create a healthier and more sustainable approach to education in the digital age.
II. Lack of Social Interaction
The rise of digital learning platforms and remote education has transformed the way students interact with their peers and teachers. While technology has bridged gaps in accessibility and convenience, it has also inadvertently led to a significant reduction in face-to-face social interactions. This lack of personal connection is contributing to a growing sense of isolation and tech burnout in students.
1. Isolation and Loneliness
Traditional classroom settings offer students numerous opportunities for spontaneous interactions, from casual conversations between classes to collaborative group activities. These interactions are crucial for building friendships, developing social skills, and creating a sense of community.
In contrast, remote learning often lacks these organic social interactions. Students may find themselves spending hours on end in front of a screen, with minimal real-time interaction with their peers. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and detachment, as students miss out on the camaraderie and support systems that are naturally built in face-to-face settings. These are typical symptoms of tech burnout.
2. Impact on Social Skills
The reduction in face-to-face interactions also hampers the development of essential social skills. Communication, empathy, teamwork, and conflict resolution are skills best honed through direct human interaction. When students are primarily engaging with others through screens, they miss out on the nuanced cues and feedback that come with in-person communication.
Moreover, digital communication often lacks the depth and emotional richness of face-to-face interactions. Text-based communication, for instance, can lead to misunderstandings and a lack of emotional connection. Over time, this can impair students’ ability to effectively interact and collaborate with others, both within and outside the academic context.
3. Expert Opinions
Psychologists and educational experts have long emphasized the importance of social interaction for healthy development. According to Dr. Jean Twenge, a professor of psychology at San Diego State University, the decline in face-to-face interactions among young people is linked to increased levels of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. In her research, Twenge found that teens who spend more time on screens and less time on non-screen activities such as face-to-face socializing are more likely to report mental health issues. It’s a concerning symptom of tech burnout.
Educational experts also highlight the importance of social learning. Vygotsky’s social development theory, for example, posits that social interaction plays a fundamental role in the development of cognition. This theory underscores the need for a balanced approach that incorporates both digital and in-person learning experiences to support students’ overall development.
Thoughts: Tech Burnout and the Impact on Social Skills
The lack of social interaction is a critical factor contributing to tech burnout in students. The isolation and loneliness stemming from reduced face-to-face interactions, combined with the negative impact on social skill development, highlight the need for a more holistic approach to education.
By fostering environments that encourage both digital and personal interactions, educators can help mitigate the adverse effects of tech burnout on social well-being. I mostly teach ELA. It’s a lot of reading and writing, and adding assignments to digital platforms makes my job a lot easier. At the same time, more students complete assignments if I use a mix of online and paper assignments. Many students want a mix. Recognizing and addressing tech burnout is essential for promoting a healthier, more connected learning experience.
III. Digital Distractions
The omnipresence of digital devices in students’ lives offers unprecedented access to information and learning tools. However, this constant connectivity also brings with it a significant downside: digital distractions. The allure of social media, gaming, and other online activities can detract from students’ focus and productivity, exacerbating tech burnout and negatively impacting academic performance.
1. Multitasking Dilemma
One of the primary challenges students face in the digital age is the pressure to multitask. With notifications from various apps, messages from friends, and the temptation of browsing the internet, students often find themselves dividing their attention among multiple tasks. This constant switching between activities not only reduces efficiency but also hampers deep, focused learning.
Research has shown that multitasking, especially with digital media, leads to poorer performance on cognitive tasks. A study by Stanford University found that heavy multitaskers have more difficulty filtering out irrelevant information and are less effective at switching between tasks. This diminished ability to focus can lead to longer study times, increased frustration, and ultimately, tech burnout.
2. Attention Span
Digital distractions also contribute to a decrease in attention span. The rapid pace and high interactivity of digital content can make it difficult for students to maintain sustained attention on less stimulating tasks, such as reading a textbook or writing an essay. Over time, this constant exposure to fragmented, high-stimulation media can rewire the brain, making it harder for students to engage in deep, focused thought.
This decline in attention span is supported by numerous studies. A report by Microsoft Corporation found that the average human attention span has dropped from 12 seconds in 2000 to just 8 seconds in 2013, largely due to the digitalized lifestyle. This trend is particularly concerning for students, as sustained attention is crucial for effective learning and academic success.
3. Research Findings
Studies on digital distractions underscore the extent of the problem. For instance, a study published in the Journal of the Association for Consumer Research found that the mere presence of a smartphone can reduce cognitive capacity, even when the phone is not being actively used. This suggests that the potential for distraction is enough to impair focus and performance.
Moreover, the OECD Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) reports that students who use social media while studying are likely to have lower academic performance. The continuous partial attention induced by multitasking with social media results in superficial learning and poorer retention of information. I don’t think this is technically part of tech burnout but it’s absolutely a side effect of over-tech use.
Thoughts: Tech Burnout & Digital Distractions
I think we’ve all seen it in the classroom. Digital distractions pose a significant challenge to teaching and student learning. The multitasking dilemma and the resultant decrease in attention span hinder students’ ability to engage in deep, meaningful learning.
Setting clear guidelines for device use during study time, incorporating mindfulness practices, and designing learning activities that engage students without relying heavily on digital devices. By addressing the issue of tech burnout, digital distractions, and we can help students achieve better academic outcomes.
IV. Technological Fatigue
As I mentioned above, I love technology. Technology in education has undeniably transformed the learning landscape, making information more accessible and interactive. That being said, students are increasingly overwhelmed by the sheer volume of digital tools, platforms, and content they must navigate daily, contributing significantly to tech burnout.
1. Overload of Digital Tools
In today’s educational environment, students often find themselves juggling multiple digital platforms. From learning management systems like Google Classroom and Canvas to communication tools like Zoom and Microsoft Teams, the array of applications is vast and varied. Each tool comes with its own set of features, interfaces, and learning curves, which can be overwhelming for students.
The constant need to switch between different platforms to complete assignments, participate in discussions, and access resources adds to cognitive load. This fragmented digital experience can lead to frustration -and tech burnout, as students struggle to keep up with the demands of each tool. The complexity and inconsistency of navigating various digital environments can detract from the actual learning experience, making it harder for students to focus on their studies.
2. Cognitive Load
Technological fatigue also stems from the cognitive load imposed by digital multitasking. Students are often required to manage multiple streams of information simultaneously—watching instructional videos, reading articles, participating in live discussions, and completing interactive exercises. This constant mental juggling can overwhelm their cognitive capacities, making it difficult to process and retain information effectively.
The principle of cognitive load theory suggests that our working memory has limited capacity. When students are bombarded with excessive information and tasks from different digital sources, their cognitive load increases, leading to mental exhaustion. This not only hampers their ability to learn but also contributes to feelings of tech burnout (and non-tech burnout) as they struggle to manage the constant influx of digital stimuli.
Thoughts: Tech Burnout = Fatigue
Technological fatigue is a significant contributor to student burnout, driven by the overload of digital tools and the cognitive load of managing multiple streams of information. To address this issue, educators and institutions must streamline the use of digital platforms, provide clear guidance on managing digital tasks, and create balanced learning environments that incorporate breaks from screen time. By recognizing and mitigating technological fatigue, we can support students’ mental well-being and enhance their overall learning experience.
V. Reduced Physical Activity
As I mentioned at the start of this article, many of my students are living completely sedentary lifestyles. The integration of technology in education has contributed to a significant reduction in physical activity among students. As students spend more time in front of screens for learning and leisure, their opportunities for physical movement and exercise diminish. This sedentary lifestyle not only affects their physical health but also plays a crucial role in increasing burnout levels.
1. Sedentary Lifestyle
With the shift towards online learning and digital coursework, students are spending unprecedented amounts of time sitting. This sedentary behavior is linked to a range of health issues, including obesity, cardiovascular problems, and musculoskeletal disorders. The lack of physical activity can also lead to poorer mental health outcomes, such as increased feelings of anxiety and depression.
The Centers for Disease Control recommends at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity for children and adolescents daily. However, studies show that a significant number of students fall short of this guideline. According to a report by the World Health Organization, over 80% of adolescents worldwide do not meet the recommended levels of physical activity, with screen time being a major contributing factor.
2. Health Implications
The health implications of reduced physical activity extend beyond immediate physical ailments. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to long-term health issues that affect overall quality of life. For students, these health problems can manifest as chronic fatigue, lack of energy, and reduced ability to concentrate, all of which contribute to tech burnout.
Physical activity is known to enhance cognitive function, improve mood, and reduce stress. Regular exercise promotes the release of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and helps regulate sleep patterns, ensuring that students get the restorative sleep they need. Without sufficient physical activity, students miss out on these benefits, making it harder for them to manage stress and maintain a balanced lifestyle.
3. Importance of Physical Activity
Engaging in regular physical activity is essential for maintaining both physical and mental health. Schools and educators play a pivotal role in promoting active lifestyles among students. Encouraging active breaks during the school day and promoting extracurricular sports and activities can help students incorporate more movement into their daily routines.
In addition to structured physical activities, it’s important to encourage students to take breaks from screen time and engage in spontaneous physical activities. Simple actions like stretching, walking, or even short exercise routines can significantly mitigate the negative effects of prolonged sitting and screen exposure.
4. Recommendations
To help counteract the trend of reduced physical activity, you can:
- Incorporate Movement into Daily Routines: Teachers can integrate short physical activities or stretching exercises into the school day to break up long periods of sitting.
- Promote Outdoor Activities: Schools can encourage outdoor activities and sports that provide students with opportunities for physical movement and social interaction.
- Educate on the Benefits of Exercise: Providing students with information about the importance of physical activity for their health and well-being can motivate them to be more active.
- Parental Involvement: Parents can play a role by encouraging and facilitating physical activities at home, such as family walks, bike rides, or participation in sports.
Thoughts on Tech Burnout & Reduced Physical Activity
As an English teacher, it’s easy for me to have my students sit and read, but I don’t. I generally break my lessons into parts. In an hour class, we complete a 5-minute warmup, 10 minutes of direct instruction, and 2 20-minute activities. After the first activity, I usually make students get up and move for some random reason. I take my students outside to read. Even walking to the trees is a short amount of physical activity for students.
The physical and mental health implications of a sedentary lifestyle underscore the need for a more balanced approach to education that prioritizes movement and exercise. By implementing strategies to promote physical activity, educators and parents can help students maintain their health, reduce tech burnout, and enhance their overall well-being.
VI. Increased Academic Pressure
The digital age has revolutionized education, making learning more accessible and flexible. However, it has also led to an increase in academic pressure on students. The constant connectivity and the demands of digital learning environments can blur the boundaries between school and personal life, creating a 24/7 academic environment that exacerbates stress and burnout.
1. 24/7 Connectivity
One of the most significant changes brought about by digital learning is the expectation for students to be always connected and available. Unlike traditional schooling, where the end of the school day provides a clear break from academic responsibilities, digital learning often extends into evenings and weekends. This continuous access to educational resources, assignments, and communications can make it difficult for students to disconnect and relax.
The pressure to respond to emails, participate in online discussions, and complete assignments promptly can lead to a sense of being “always on.” This constant connectivity can prevent students from having adequate downtime, essential for mental rest and recuperation. The lack of clear boundaries between school time and personal time can contribute to increased stress and eventual tech burnout in students.
2. Performance Anxiety
The digital learning environment also amplifies performance anxiety. The transparency and immediacy of digital platforms mean that students’ work is often visible to peers, and feedback can be instant. This visibility can create a competitive atmosphere where students feel pressured to perform perfectly and keep up with their peers’ achievements.
Moreover, the digital record of assignments, grades, and participation can lead to a constant self-comparison and fear of falling behind. The pressure to maintain high performance in an environment where every misstep is documented can heighten anxiety levels. This anxiety, coupled with the demands of continuous learning, can quickly lead to burnout.
3. Research Insights
Research highlights the impact of increased academic pressure in the digital age. A study by the Pew Research Center found that 70% of teens reported anxiety and depression as major problems among their peers, with academic pressure being a significant contributing factor. The constant demands of digital learning environments were noted as exacerbating these feelings.
4. Support Strategies
If we want to support student and address the issue of increased academic pressure, we must use a multifaceted approach.
Some suggestions:
- Set Clear Boundaries: Educators and parents should encourage students to establish clear boundaries between schoolwork and personal time. Designating specific hours for academic activities and ensuring time for relaxation can help students manage their stress levels.
- Promote Time Management Skills: Teaching students effective time management strategies can help them balance their academic responsibilities with personal time. Tools like planners, calendars, and time-blocking techniques can be beneficial.
- Encourage Open Communication: Providing a supportive environment where students feel comfortable discussing their stress and workload can help alleviate pressure. Regular check-ins with teachers and counselors can ensure students receive the support they need.
- Implement Mindfulness Practices: Incorporating mindfulness and relaxation techniques into the school day can help students manage stress. Practices such as deep breathing, meditation, and short breaks can promote mental well-being.
Thoughts: Tech Burnout and Academic Performance
I noticed a decrease in submitted assignments on online discussion boards. When I asked why, many students mentioned they were too anxious to submit assignments where everyone can read their work. The increased academic pressure associated with digital learning environments is a significant factor in tech burnout and student anxiety. The expectation for constant connectivity and the heightened performance anxiety can take a toll on students’ mental health. Addressing these issues is crucial for fostering a healthy, balanced, and supportive educational environment.
Conclusion: Tech Burnout in Students
Tech burnout in students is due to the over-reliance on technology is a multifaceted issue that demands our urgent attention. These factors collectively impact students’ physical health, mental well-being, and overall academic performance.
Combating digital distractions involves teaching students effective multitasking strategies and promoting focused study habits. To alleviate technological fatigue, it is crucial to streamline digital tools and reduce cognitive overload. Encouraging physical activity and setting clear boundaries between academic responsibilities and personal time are vital in counteracting the sedentary lifestyle and increased academic pressure associated with digital learning.
Educators, parents, and policymakers must collaborate to create a more supportive and balanced educational framework. This involves not only integrating technology thoughtfully but also prioritizing students’ holistic well-being.
