Technophobia in ICTs: overcoming myths about the use of digital screens for learning

Authors

  • Sergio Bonaque-González Institute of Astrophysics of the Canary Islands https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7162-0368
  • María Shirley Castilla-Niebla CEIP Maximiliano Gil Melián (Tacoronte, Tenerife, España)
  • Elena García-Benito Óptica Hawkers (España) https://orcid.org/0009-0006-5239-4330
  • Alicia Pareja-Ríos University Hospital of the Canary Islands (Spain)

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30827/eticanet.v24i1.29316

Keywords:

digital screens, technophobia, information and communication technologies, ICT, vision, myopia

Abstract

As technology redefines education through Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), the increased use of digital screens raises concerns about their possible effects on visual health. By analyzing the scientific evidence, this paper debunks myths and clarifies misconceptions. It is not the observed object itself, but behavioral factors such as distance, illumination and pauses, as well as time spent outdoors, that are responsible for visual problems. Screens as educational tools present no greater risks than printed materials when used properly. In this constantly evolving technological landscape, it is crucial to foster digital literacy and balanced use of ICTs, empowering students and educators to take full advantage of the benefits that these modern tools can offer.

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Author Biographies

Sergio Bonaque-González, Institute of Astrophysics of the Canary Islands

Ingeniero óptico en el Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias, es también profesor de óptica y optometría para el Centro de Educación Superior CUNIMAD (centro adscrito a la Universidad de Alcalá)

María Shirley Castilla-Niebla, CEIP Maximiliano Gil Melián (Tacoronte, Tenerife, España)

Graduada en magisterio infantil y psicopedagogía, realiza su labor docente en un centro de educación público.

Elena García-Benito, Óptica Hawkers (España)

Graduada en óptica y optometría, realiza labores de optometría en un centro privado.

Alicia Pareja-Ríos, University Hospital of the Canary Islands (Spain)

Oftalmóloga especializada en retina, combina sus labores asistenciales con la docencia universitaria en la Universidad de La Laguna.

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Published

2024-06-11

Issue

Vol. 24 No. 1 (2024): Emerging technologies and their impact on the evolution of learning models

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