Friday, January 20, 2017

Blog Post 2- Amy Spear

This week we discussed the benefits and possible implications of technology use. In this modern time, we have seen great advancements in technology. We often think of the advantages of gaining more ways to utilize our technology. However, with this span of technology growing, we are also beginning to see more negative issues.

Our country has become a technologically advanced nation and we’ve adopted this technology use because of its many benefits. Technology use makes our lives easier in many ways. First, it allows simpler and faster access to all sorts of online information. Instead of taking the time to go the library and read a book about what you are seeking, you can simply search for it online and it be at your fingertips in seconds. Technology use has also significantly improved our connectivity through use of cellphones, email, video conferencing, and social media. We’ve also seen that technology usage is very cost-effective. As an aspiring healthcare provider, I know that advancements in technology have revolutionized the healthcare industry. With technology use the industry has been able to develop ways to stay connected with their providers, seek online treatment, and overall, save patients money. E-mental health is just one of the many programs developed using technology that will help us provide affordable, quality care to those everywhere. I am excited to have a career in this industry that will allow me to engage in the use of these technologies.

As college students we have become very familiar with everyday use of technology. We complete online assignments, communicate with professors via email, and even work in group settings through online portals. We spend a great deal of time using our devices. However, is it too much time? According to GoodCall.com, about 10 to 15% of college students have developed an internet addiction. This means that these students spend more than 25 hours online per week not doing school or work activities. We know how tempting it is to reach for our phone or computer every chance we get to check social media, email, or text messages. It has been shown that this excessive technology usage leads to poor sleep habits, reduced attention span, decreased focus on school work, and lack of social interactions. Therefore, it is vital that we find a healthy balance to prevent our excessive technology usage.

Although we can find many disadvantages to our technology use, I believe the benefits outweigh these negative aspects. Our nation has become adapted to new advancements being made everyday. I believe over time, these advancements will grow and help develop new technology within the healthcare industry. With this, we will have even more ways to help provide quality care to all of those in need.

1 comment:

  1. I would be interested to see what they were doing only for over a day's worth of time each week since this excludes school work. Was there any information on the websites they viewed or activities they were performing online?
    I don't believe I spend an extreme amount of time online, but I have definitely noticed that the using my cell phone prior too falling asleep negatively affects my sleep, and since then have made a conscious effort to put down my phone a half an hour before bed. This has resulted in a much better night's sleep! I think we just must be conscious and careful not to overuse technology.

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