Wired for Distraction: High+Tech=Dumb

"Students have always faced distractions and time-wasters. But computers and cellphones, and the constant stream of stimuli they offer, pose a profound new challenge to focusing and learning...Article

This is an excerpt from an article that seems to be way more popular than I ever expected.

Who would have deemed technology as a backward step in intellectual behavior? But the evidence is clear. Technology is dumbing us down. It seems that our cognitive memory needs more time to store information than high-tech gadgets are allowing us. The problem seems to be attention span deficit. Multi-tasking is a convenient way for us to feel like we are doing a lot at once, but the long term effect is already starting to show. There are a few signs that are undeniable.

-The unusual amount of people weaving in traffic, while texting. This makes it more difficult to tell who is actually driving under the influence.

-Without the use of your phone, recite 3-5 of your best friends phone numbers. From memory.

-Try using a paper map to navigate your driving.

-Spelling, grammar and punctuation from speed typing and texting.

These signs might not seem problematic now, but the long term effect will show in the next 20 years. People are so busy minded with technology, that we depend on it like a mental crutch. If this crutch ever disappears...we will be forced to learn all over again the old fashion way. And that might not be such a bad idea

Your friendly cyberhood

Uncle Samurai