Social media plays a huge role in the daily lives of students at Prairie high school. Many students use apps to communicate with friends, follow trends, and stay entertained, but it can also affect focus, sleep, and mental health. As social media continues to grow, students and staff are noticing both positive and negative impacts on school life.
For many teenagers today social media is part of their daily routine. Students often check their phones throughout the day to watch social media, keep track of trends, and message their friends and sometimes even family. Because social media spreads information so , trends and phrases can move through the school very fast. Some teachers at Prairie high school say this constant scrolling may also be changing how students pay attention and interact in class.
Ms.Kendrick, a teacher at Prairie high school, says social media may be affecting how students focus in class. “Social media moves so quickly that it contributes to lower attention spans and a desire to constantly be online to see the new things that come out.” Kendrick said. Short videos and constant updates can make it harder for students to stay focused on longer assignments or lessons.
Teachers have also noticed how trends and language have spread more quickly among students because of social media. With so many students connected online, popular phrases, jokes,and challenges can spread across the school very quickly. Another concern is the effect social media has on teens’ mental health. Online posts often show only the best moments of someone’s life, which can lead others to compare themselves unfairly. It can create pressure for students who feel like they have to match everything they see online and that it’s “Supposed to be like that.”
Ms Kendrick also encourages students to think critically about what they see on social media. “Students should know that its okay to question what you see on social media,.. What you see on social media is usually scripted and you don’t see the whole picture of that person or situation” she claims. Which is true most of the social media life is just for fame and drama. Which also means that just because people see it doesn’t mean that others should do it.
Even though social media has become a normal part of daily life, teachers say it is important for students to balance their time online with schoolwork, hobbies, and real life connections. As social media continues to grow, students and teachers at prairie high are still learning how to manage its influence in a healthy way.
