Technology, The best or worst thing for education | Scott Widman | TEDxYouth@BSPR

Overview

The speaker frames a question many educators face: whether technology in the classroom is ultimately better or worse for students.

They note that classroom use can produce both outcomes at once—students may use phones effectively for research (multiple tabs, cross-referencing, citing), but the same devices can also enable distractions like streaming or social media during class.

They also describe trying to research the topic online and finding it “highly debatable,” with credible arguments for both sides. As a result, there is no simple “best answer.”

Three consistently true points

The talk highlights three points the speaker says are consistently true:

1. Technology can be dangerous. Examples include:

   • Cyberbullying
   • Academic dishonesty/cheating
   • Evidence suggesting technology can resemble addiction-like behaviors

2. Technology can be extremely valuable. It can significantly support learning by:

   • Providing access to vast amounts of information
   • Enabling learners to acquire expertise quickly

3. Technology is not slowing down—it’s accelerating. Students are “digital natives” (Generation Z) who have essentially grown up with constant internet and mobile access—so technology is less a tool they “own” and more an environment they live in.

Why banning isn’t the solution

A key argument is that banning or simply avoiding technology is not a long-term solution. Even if schools restrict devices inside class, students re-enter the same digital environment outside class—potentially without the same guidance or preparation.

Therefore, the speaker argues that the real issue isn’t whether technology is beneficial or harmful, but that educators must actively manage technology as both opportunity and risk.

Conclusion

Since students carry devices that are “infinitely valuable and infinitely dangerous,” using technology in classrooms should be treated less like an optional choice and more like an educator responsibility.

Teachers should provide structured opportunities to build digital literacy, helping students become independent, lifelong learners who can navigate online risks safely and effectively.

Presenters or contributors

• Scott Widman (speaker)