– Allan Andersen, Director, Chaman Bhartiya School

Technology is reshaping high school education, offering innovative teaching and learning methods. However, it also brings challenges that educators, students, and parents must address to maximise its benefits.

Challenges of Technology in High School Education

A major drawback of technology in high school education is its potential for distraction. A study by Common Sense Media revealed that teens spend over seven hours daily on non-academic screen activities, including social media and gaming. These distractions reduce classroom engagement and impede learning, as students often switch between academic tasks and entertainment apps.

Another aspect of the integration of technology is an increasing dependence on tools like Grammarly and AI-driven assistants for assignments, risking the erosion of critical thinking and creativity. While such tools provide convenience, they can hinder the development of essential skills, such as writing and problem-solving, which are critical for higher education and career readiness.

Despite its promise of accessibility, technology exacerbates inequities in education. According to UNICEF, two-thirds of children worldwide lack internet access at home, leaving many high school students unable to participate fully in digital learning. In underserved areas, schools struggle to provide adequate devices and connectivity, further widening the gap between students with resources and those without.

As schools adopt more digital tools, data privacy and cybersecurity risks have escalated. Many educators lack training on the data policies of edtech platforms, exposing students to potential breaches. High-profile incidents, such as the ransomware attack on Baltimore County Public Schools in 2020, underscore the vulnerabilities of digital infrastructures in high schools.

Benefits of Technology in High School Education

Technology has significantly improved educational accessibility. During the COVID-19 pandemic, platforms such as Google Classroom and Zoom ensured that learning continued despite school closures. For students with disabilities, assistive tools such as screen readers and text-to-speech software promote inclusive learning, enabling them to participate fully in high school education.

To add to the above, high schools leverage technology to provide tailored educational experiences. Platforms like Khan Academy and Quizlet adapt to students’ learning paces, focusing on individual strengths and weaknesses. According to EdSurge, personalised learning approaches improve outcomes for over 70 percent of students, ensuring they grasp concepts more effectively.
Digital tools foster collaboration in high schools. Apps like Google Docs allow students to work on group projects seamlessly, while platforms like ePals connect classrooms globally for cultural exchange and joint learning. These tools not only enhance teamwork but also prepare students for a globally interconnected world.

High schools are equipping students with the skills needed for a tech-driven future. Programmes such as Code.org teach coding, while robotics clubs integrate STEM learning into the curriculum. The World Economic Forum predicts that 50 percent of jobs will require digital literacy by 2025, making these initiatives vital for students’ career readiness.

Additionally, creative tools like Canva and Adobe Spark allow students to develop design and media production skills, broadening their career prospects.

Finding the Right Balance 

Combining technology with traditional teaching methods offers the best outcomes. Flipped classrooms, where students learn through digital lectures at home and engage in interactive activities during school, exemplify this model. Research from the University of Michigan shows that blended learning environments improve academic performance by up to 25 percent.

High schools must adopt policies to limit excessive screen use. Teachers can schedule offline activities like group discussions or lab experiments to balance tech-heavy lessons. Parents also play a role by encouraging screen-free time at home, ensuring students maintain a healthy balance.

Educators must prioritise teaching responsible technology use. Programmes like Google’s “Be Internet Awesome” focus on online safety, ethical behavior, and privacy awareness, helping students navigate the digital world responsibly.
Governments and schools must address inequities in technology access. Initiatives like India’s PM eVIDYA and non-profits like One Laptop per Child aim to provide digital resources to underserved schools, ensuring that all students, regardless of background, can benefit from technological advancements.

Technology: Boon or Bane

Technology is both a boon and a bane for high school education. While it enhances accessibility, personalisation, and future-readiness, issues such as digital distractions, inequities, and health risks require careful management.

A balanced approach is essential for harnessing the full potential of technology. Blended learning, clear screen time regulations, and promoting digital literacy can ensure that its benefits outweigh its drawbacks. With thoughtful integration, technology can empower high school students to succeed academically and prepare for an increasingly digital world.

By addressing its challenges and maximising its advantages, high schools can create an environment where technology complements learning, fostering a generation ready to excel in a rapidly changing global landscape.

Also read: AI and robotics in schools: Shaping India’s tech future