Abstract:

The purpose of this paper and virtual session is to provide participants with an overview of the effects of technology and online learning on student mental, emotional and social health. Technology is now prevalent in many countries around the world. Technology has exacerbated disparities and has caused an even larger division between the “have” and “have not” youth. Many lower income families cannot afford to buy the educational and informational technology that have proliferated society. In addition, these families cannot provide the academic help and support that may be needed outside of the classroom setting. This can have a negative impact on youth who are expected to have these technology tools as well as Internet access at home by their teachers and peers. This can impact student self-esteem and personal perceived value and cause undue stress. In addition, the positive and negative effects of technology on students' social and mental health as a whole as society becomes digitally-focused rather than relationship-focused is discussed. This session will provide an in-depth peer-reviewed literature review on these topic areas.

Keywords:

Technology in learning, technology disparities, health risks, online learning.