With the end-of-year exams looming and students spending extra-long hours on technology devices, it’s an ideal time to consider the impact of technology on the brain.
It has undoubtedly brought about positive changes, but it also carries a significant downside that is particularly concerning for students of all ages.‘s recent annual academic conference, United States-based Dr Brad Huddleston, an esteemed speaker, consultant, teacher, and author, highlighted the growing issue of digital addiction among the youth – often referred to as ‘digital cocaine.’
The statistics on our digital ‘addiction’ are staggering. In 2022, the world collectively spent over 12½ trillion hours online, with South Africans emerging as some of the most voracious internet users, spending an average of at least 9.5 hours online per day.His concerns are backed by global statistics.
Atelisha Harilal, STADIO’s Head of Student Recruitment and Marketing says, “As a higher education institution, technology is an important enabler to offering our students a quality tertiary education yet, it’s essential to strike a balance between the benefits of technology and the potential harm it can cause.”