A must-read article from NY Times (Growing Up Digital, Wired for Distraction) about the effect of gadgets on learning. Great interviews with students, families, teachers and perspectives of neuroscientists. The article caused me to reflect on a conversation with teachers at a recent professional development meeting. The discussion centered on the statement that students are growing up in the most stimulating age we've ever known. This article presents some of the obstacles students may face in the barrage of all of this gadgetry. Here's a quote from the article that really struck me:
..Major cross sections of the brain become surprisingly active during downtime. These brain studies suggest to researchers that periods of rest are critical in allowing the brain to synthesize information, make connections between ideas and even develop the sense of self.
Researchers say these studies have particular implications for young people, whose brains have more trouble focusing and setting priorities.
“Downtime is to the brain what sleep is to the body,” said Dr. Rich of Harvard Medical School. “But kids are in a constant mode of stimulation.”
Growing Up Digital, Wired for Distractionhttp://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/21/technology/21brain.html
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