Observe your surroundings the next time you are in a public place. What do you notice? Pay close attention to the people around you. How many of them are engaging in face-to-face conversations? How many are engrossed in their smartphones or tablets?

The advancement of technology has revolutionized the way people communicate. We now have the ability to text, email, tweet, and share videos throughout the day. In many ways, we are more connected than ever before.

However, some experts argue that these new forms of communication have come at the expense of genuine face-to-face conversations. They claim that electronic communications lack the depth and richness of in-person conversations. In a text message, you cannot interpret body language. Similarly, an email cannot convey facial expressions or tone of voice. This leaves ample room for misinterpretation.

Do we truly spend a significant amount of time on electronic devices? A 2019 study conducted by Common Sense Media suggests that the answer is yes. The majority of American teenagers spend over seven hours per day using electronic devices for both entertainment and communication. For children aged 8 to 12, the average is nearly five hours per day. Many children also spend additional time on screens at school.

What is the concern with excessive screen time? Many individuals worry that it can have detrimental effects on social and writing skills. Excessive screen time may lead to reduced eye contact and increased distractions during face-to-face conversations. This can make it more difficult to maintain healthy relationships at home, school, and work.

Does digital communication offer any benefits? Certainly! It imparts important skills and habits. After all, many people now primarily communicate through email or chat software in professional settings. However, face-to-face conversations cultivate other skills that are crucial for overall well-being.

Real-life conversations have the power to transform a bad day into a good one. They foster a sense of connection with others. Have you ever experienced feelings of sadness or loneliness? If so, you know that a smile and a few kind words can completely alter your mood.

How can we ensure that we do not lose the art of conversation? Experts encourage individuals to unplug more frequently. Dedicate time without electronic devices. Engage in face-to-face conversations with friends and family. Maintaining a healthy balance between on-screen and off-screen discussions will enhance your communication skills.

When was the last time you unplugged? If you are unsure, give it a try right now. Put aside your electronic devices and spend time with the people around you. Take a walk or play outside. Do not worry, Wonderopolis—and all your other online activities—will still be here when you return!

Give It a Shot

Ready to revive the lost art of conversation? Explore the following activities with a friend or family member:

The Impact of Electronic Devices on Communication

Have you ever wondered how much time you spend each day using electronic devices? It may surprise you. To find out, take a few days to carefully track your usage of smartphones, computers, televisions, and other electronic devices. Whether you’re watching videos, listening to music, texting friends, or scrolling through social media, keep a record of it all. Once you’ve collected the data, share it with a friend or family member. What is their opinion? Are you using electronic devices too much? Why or why not?

If you’re looking for a genuine conversation, try sitting down with a friend or family member for at least 30 minutes. Put away all electronic devices and simply talk about anything and everything. If the conversation starts to slow down, take a walk together and discuss what you see around you. Another option is to talk about your hopes and dreams for the future. Enjoy the experience of having a real conversation without the reliance on electronic devices!

Feeling up for a challenge? Engage in a debate with a friend or family member about the importance of conversation. Do you believe that face-to-face communication is a dying art that needs to be revived? Or do you think that we are doing just fine with communication through electronic devices? Support your position with examples. Does your friend agree with you? Why or why not?

Additional Sources for Further Reading

• https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2018/08/22/how-teens-and-parents-navigate-screen-time-and-device-distractions/ (accessed 12 May 2020)
• https://abcnews.go.com/US/teens-spend-hours-screens-entertainment-day-report/story?id=66607555 (accessed 12 May 2020)
• https://www.business.com/articles/technology-should-enhance-communication-skills/ (accessed 12 May 2020)
• https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-novel-perspective/201301/the-trouble-texting (accessed 12 May 2020)