Читать книгу The Movement and Technology Balance - Traci Lengel - Страница 29

As an educator, have you seen a change in your students’ work ethic over your years of service? Are students sedentary? Do they resist physical movement and active involvement in class activities? Many teachers have spoken out regarding this concern. It seems that many learners expect instant gratification and continual praise, with minimal effort. Many believe this to be a current trend in our society. It is common to hear this era referenced as the “Age of Entitlement.” This label is related to millennials/postmillennials and suggests that members of this generation have an overinflated sense of entitlement and lack the work ethic to achieve their goals. Do you witness this in your classroom and school environment? Teachers often feel that there has been a decrease in students’ energy levels. This change has a direct effect on day-to-day teaching challenges.

Figure 2.1 ■ Technology Usage vs. Obesity Rates

Note: All percentages are approximate, based on varying data

Sources: http://internetworldstats.com/emarketing.htm

http://stateofobesity.org/childhood-obesity-trends/

http://stateofobesity.org/adult-obesity/

Researchers believe that this notion starts at birth. Throughout their growing years, babies and infants are told how special they are; now they believe this to be true, even when their actions and decisions are less than favorable. These youngsters have a sense of expectation, feeling they should be treated with individual attention and exclusive focus. They have a driving concentration for self-fulfillment, while strong work ethics and self-sacrifice are qualities that are lost as a result. There has been a noticeable decrease in motivation with our younger generation as well. As technology dependencies increase, delaying adulthood, financial responsibilities, and a casual approach to life seem to increase. Many people feel this generation is physically lazier than the ones before it. New research appears to prove that this stereotype is true. Technology and the decisions we make regarding it may be the primal cause of this unmotivated society. Changes in parenting styles, educational expectations, and the choices we are making as human beings with both ourselves and our youngsters are also contributing to this descent. Combining movement and digital progressions in the classroom with equality can help to bring the value of physical activity back to our society. This will aid in strengthening the work ethic and energy levels of our youth.