My Relationship with Technology

Introduction

Many forms of technology have brought meaning to my life, but for this blog post, I want to highlight one that has a major impact on my social life: video games. I'm aware that this answer sounds childish; it feels odd to be analyzing this topic on a graduate school level, but devices like the Nintendo Switch, the Xbox, and other online platforms have truly strengthened some of my core friendships. Since I have friends spread all over the country, these devices are vital in maintaining a level of connectedness with each other. For example: friends, strangers, and even Elijah Wood, all were able to bond with each other virtually during the pandemic through the game Animal Crossing. The cute animations and fun activities provided a good bonding experience when there weren't many opportunities to do so. The benefits of playing video games go beyond just entertainment value, as they also have a positive impact on education, which I will discuss next.

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Personal Use

In the past couple months, I have enjoyed playing Dress to Impress on Roblox with one of my friends. This is a creative game where players are given a specific theme and must style their avatar appropriately under a strict time limit. Not only is it very fun to play, but it allows us to stay more informed with more of the social trends with younger generations. Though the version of Roblox I play is not the most cognitively demanding, there is a Studio version of Roblox that allows people the ability to develop their own game, which can help children develop STEM skills from an early age. As someone getting a degree in Library and Information Science, this application of the game is fascinating to me. This format is very engaging and the fact that it can familiarize kids with the world of programming makes it all the better. Building their own world lets a person intuitively solve problems while letting their imagination run wild. From a library perspective, this game could make a great addition to programming; libraries could allow kids and teens to come together to play in a communal environment, practicing their math and/or social skills all at once.

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Integrating learning into some type of game is a defining format of the 21st century. Another great, more easily recognizable example of this in schools today is Kahoot. This game makes trivia fun by testing the retention of relevant material in a competitive format. I have used this game many times in my school, professional, and social life and I always admire how engaging and interactive the platform is. 

Negative Factors

Though there are thousands of positive applications of technology, I would be negligent to not discuss the ways in which it can cause harm. The limits of technology these days seem boundless. Unprecedented innovation may seem like a good thing, but it can be hard to determine the long-term effects. Games like the ones I've discussed are a good release from the stressors of life, but they can also be heavily distracting. Screen time should be limited for younger people still developing time-management skills however because of this addictive nature. Moderation is key to developing successful habits.

Conclusion

Despite the risks too much video game usage poses, there is no denying the positive impact it has had on many people. From improving community values to strengthening mental agility and establishing innovative mathematical thinkers, video games of all kinds have had these positive impacts (among many others) on my life as well as millions of others.