How Modern world is damaging the minds of our youth

How Modern world is damaging the minds of our youth

By Sadia Wali

“She was standing on the steps of the Uffizi Gallery in Florence – a short, dark haired girl, slightly overweight, sulkily licking an ice-cream. I guess that she was no more than ten years. I suspect the only  thing the little soul  wanted to do is to curl up in front of TV to watch her favorite advertisements.’’ writes Sue Palmer in her book ‘Toxic Childhood: How The Modern World Is Damaging Our Children And What We Can Do About It’

According to social learning theory of Strasburger, “Children and adolescents learn by observing and imitating what they see on the screen, particularly when these behaviors seem realistic or are rewarded.” Hence it is a correct notion that the media is a reflection of society, media content has a direct influence on the mental and physical progression on young growing minds.

Apparently, young children spend more time using computer, the Internet, video-game and a cell phone and the vast majority of them have access to a bedroom television as well. Since a child’s brain is immature and he cannot comprehend the difference between illusion and reality, the marketers and advertisers through their fascinating and captivating advertisements attracts these innocent mind. Using fantasy in advertisements of junk food, candies, chocolates and carbonated drinks, the food and beverage advertisements negatively exploit a child’s imagination; thus, creating sense of urgency in them and compelled them to buy the product.

­The marketing campaigns continue to mislead children and young people in terms of the nutritional benefits. Children less than 6 to 8 years are more attracted towards fantasy; they are incapable of understanding the marketing tactics. The messages in food advertisements encourage children to induce their parents to buy the products. To children, it appears cool, fun and exciting to eat these unhealthy products anytime.

Instead of focusing on strengthening the physical health of children and undermining the significance of healthy lifestyle choices, the advertisements have created huge negative impact on the mental and physical health of the children and teens. The question which bothers me is that although we act like mature individuals who understand the influence and consequences of overexposure of media on society, yet we act in an irrational way and feel comfortable in following the materialistic life style trends as portrayed by mass media. Let’s take an example of carbonated drinks; soft drinks have become a part of modern living. Soft drinks advertisements are especially targeting young people who drink soft drinks in place of water. People love drinking soft drinks too–they give the refreshing feeling and seem to quench thirsts on a scorching hot day. Purchasing designer outfits have increased extensively. The fashion industry continues to manipulate the mind of young women and appeals them to buy expensive designer clothes and females are developing a certain sense of pride they are equipped with all the ideal fabric of today marketplace. With prices reaching the thousands, most designer clothing is regularly purchased by only those who can afford it. However, people with modest income cannot afford to buy the designer dresses due to their short budget. This is however one social effect which we need to ponder over it whether buying a designer clothing item is worth or not! 

                                         

Advertising seems to be jeopardizing one's idea about life style as media has changed the living standards and lifestyle of people. Take the example of family-oriented activities such as eating dinner together, families discussing the important issues and youths seeking advices from elders are now rarely seen.  Whether the meal is a home-cooked feast or fast food from the drive-through, the most important ingredient is the sharing time it strengthens family ties.Since children and families are now more exposed to commercial media, it has severely damaged the cultural values and traditions, effecting their self-esteem and relationships with their parents. Consequently, young people have more likely to develop materialistic attitudes and self-beliefs. 

      In recognition of the importance of fostering ethical, responsible and caring young people, character education plays a pivotal role. Strong moral education can help children and adults to acquire virtues or moral habits that create real and deep impact and bring personal change in an individual. Hence, moral and spiritual development, self-control and personal mastery develop realization in the person to accept simple things and could distinguish between reality and temptation. ‘Learn to say no and mean it’ is only possible when character is built up strongly. . How many times you wanted to go for a walk, knowing how wonderful you feel afterwards, but due to laziness, you stayed at home and watched TV instead  Or How many times have you tried to change your eating habits, stop smoking, or get up earlier in the morning, but you didn't possess enough inner strength and persistence? Developing willpower and self-discipline can make a great difference in one’s life. These skills build up Inner strength which is vital for success and for personal growth.

 As Dr. Habib Sadeghi says,

“Inside all of us, there is grassland that needs tending with the greatest of care. When we don’t have the proper tools to nurture it, the soil of our soul becomes exposed to the damaging effects of negative life experiences. It dries up, loses its nourishing capabilities and blows away, leaving us completely ungrounded.”

 William Bennett observed in The Book of Virtues,

“There is nothing more influential, more determinant in a person life than the moral power of a quiet example. It is critically important that parents should influence children’s character in positive ways”

Parents have great concern about the impact of the mass media on children and teens. Concerned parents fear that since media exposure has created toxic new generation, it is a perplexing as how they can protect their families from the problems of the modern world and help ensure that their children emerge as healthy, intelligent and pleasant adults.

As parents, “we strive day in and day out to provide healthy meals, drive our kids for recreational activities; and teach them to say “no” to bad habits such as smoking, watching too much TV etc. While we are busy covering all the basics of being a good parent, we can be far too oblivious of the effects the social media is having on children”.

 It is up to adults to set an example for children and to protect them from temptation. Parents can teach children to be more cautious about the media distinguish what content they see or hear in the media or the content is appropriate to watch. Help them develop an appreciation for non-material rewards. In today’s consumerist culture, youth could easily come to believe that image — wearing the “right” clothes, driving the “right” car, etc. — represents the path to success and happiness. Parents can make strong statements about what they value by the ways in which they allocate their own resources and how they allow their children to spend the funds entrusted to them. . As parents and children interact with one another and with others outside the home, there are countless situations that can be used to teach valuable lessons about responsibility, empathy, kindness, and compassion.

                                                    

Harassment of women a social dilemma

Harassment of women a social dilemma

By Sadia Wali

Gender discrimination and sexual harassment have become a matter of concern in organizations where men and women work together. Many working women have complained about the behaviour of their colleagues and bosses which affects their performances in the office. Under such a situation, work environment becomes tense and uncomfortable for women.

Sexual harassment at workplace violates the fundamental rights of women. According to a research by an NGO, 80 to 90 per cent of working women face sexual harassment.

Narrating her ordeal, a 23-year-old nurse said a doctor followed her everywhere in the hospital at night when no senior doctor was on duty. He passed comments and at times even tried to touch her.

She said he also attempted to enter her hostel room. The girl was so frightened that she could not make an effort to report this indecent behaviour to the authorities. Ultimately, she was left with no option but to resign from her job.

Aliya, who worked in a bank, had to pass through a torturous experience. She said the bank manager often called her to his room and commented on her appearance and looks.

He also invited her for lunch and dinner which she always declined. When the situation worsened, she talked to the general manager, who instead of taking action against the manager, blamed her and terminated her services.

Maryia, a sales girl who worked in a pharmaceutical company for three years, while sharing her experience, said the first two years were peaceful. But then a sales boy joined them. She said she felt uncomfortable with him because he used vulgar language. The authorities turned a deaf ear to her protest and dismissed her from the job.

A similar story was reported by a female receptionist who worked in a hotel. She had to carry out her duty at night. A guest was staying in that hotel since one month.

The whole night he just sat in the lounge and gazed at her. One night he invited her to spend the night with him. This was the limit for her and she resigned from her job the very next day.

Razia, a maid, was assaulted by the owner of the house where she worked. There have been many cases where women, who have been victims of sexual harassment, refuse to share their experience with others.

In Pakistan, some private organizations and NGOs have raised their voice against this issue. They have included provisions in their policies regarding gender discrimination and have created awareness among the masses to deal with this issue seriously.

The government has emphasized on the implementation of code of conduct on gender justice in every organization. The code is formed on the principles of equal opportunity for men and women and their right to earn livelihood without fear of abuse and harassment.

This code adheres to the human rights declaration and United Nations convention for elimination of all forms of discrimination against women. The reality is that if people follow the principles of the Holy Quran, self-respect of women will remain secure and both men and women will work together in a cordial environment where dignity of each employee is ensured.

Source: Dawn

          Learning through information technology

   By Sadia Wali

      Innovations in teaching and learning have changed the perspective of learning across the world. Educators have adapted new educational technologies which have enhanced the scope of collaborative online learning for students. E-learning is an educational technology that technically supports learning and teaching. Bernard Luskin, a pioneer of e-learning, advocates that the "e" is interpreted to mean "electronic." This interpretation focuses on new applications and developments. E-learning encompasses multimedia learning, computer-based training, internet-based training (IBT), web-based training (WBT) and online education.

E- Learning has rapidly increased in developed countries. However, developing countries like Pakistan are facing challenges in implementing E-learning programs. Since E- learning has been introduced recently in Pakistan, this online education system is developing slowly. Consequently, this system of education is expensive and the educational institutions lack professional instructors that could provide complete guidelines to students about their studies. The institutions are also deprived of all the essential facilities such as computers and laptops. Most of the students and working professional are interested in broadening their horizon and knowledge through e- learning however domestic responsibilities, limited choices and financial problems constraints them to arrange time for an E-learning course.

Another challenge is related to course, its development, and delivery. Concerns have been raised regarding designing an innovative curriculum suitable for E-learning environment. The tradition of attending school is still prevailing among people, therefore mostly students are trained to show honor for teachers who are considered as the experts. Students being spoon fed by teachers and too much dependency of students on teachers are taken as obstacles in E-learning settings.
However some parents do not agree. They believe that e-learning cannot be attained without proper guidance and help as some students find hard to study online course.”

“There is a need to create awareness how E-learning is different from conventional classroom based learning   said a teacher. While comparing e- learning with traditional face-to-face classroom learning, she believed that that traditional classroom environment following instructors dictating content and rote learning has become uninteresting for the students. E-learning environment is a more learner-friendly as the role of a teacher is different in an e-learning environment.’’

“E-Learning foster students interaction and collaboration and assists them to choose content and tools appropriate to their interests, needs, and skill levels. It motivates students to be much more engaged and to take more responsibility for what they’re learning’’ stated another teacher.

  “E-learning is good for education uttered a mother. As it gives more knowledge, practical approach and provide global knowledge to students.”

Similarly, another mother declares, “E-learning can definitely be useful but then the overall development of a student is hindered. I suggest that there should be a facility of both classroom learning environment and E-learning facility too. So child should have an experience of going to school and also gets acquainted with technological world.’’

What do students really think about online learning? Can E-learning be a substitute for the class room learning?

A survey conducted by some Pakistani students in the year 2009-10 revealed that the majority of students (over 90%) found learning over the Internet and via satellite TV beneficial. Students who have opted for e-learning think that the flexibility of online learning is a positive factor.

“It is an efficient alternative to taking the class physically. To study the topic in depth, students can select some important websites such as Coursera's online classes which are designed to help students to achieve mastery over course material. The website Coursera is offering massive open online courses since 2012. Lectures, talks and discussions of the teacher are also accessible on the website. The option of video conferencing technologies and online demonstrations of concepts are helpful in imparting valuable knowledge.’ opined a group of students.

However, some students do not find E-learning interactive as they say “We love the personal classroom feeling of attending the lectures and getting involved in group discussions, assignments, and projects. Students are more engaged in learning and retain knowledge better than online study. By analyzing the students learning styles and interests, the teachers can adjust their teaching methods and strategies.’’

A group of students hold similar opinions, “In classroom learning, we get to know many important things which we cannot get from E- learning. We get to know how to behave, how to interact and maintain relations within group or friend circle. These etiquettes can be learnt in a classroom environment.’’ 

Students in far-flung areas of Pakistan are eager to acquire on-line education. Accessing E-learning education in remote areas of the country is not easy since the survey conducted by students notified that mostly small cities and towns do not have specialized educational institutes which provide e-learning education. Students also complain of lack of computer and internet facilities; well-organized libraries and efficient mentors who could guide them about e- learning education. Government need to provide modern education facilities  in less privileged areas  so that people living in these areas also get opportunity to acquire modern education. Learning through information technology has evolved a new era of education all over the world. It is hoped that e- learning in Pakistan will refine the cognitive skills of young individuals and it will assist them to contribute towards the development of global knowledge.

 Today, many educational institutions in Pakistan have greatly emphasized the need for the development of internet based information technologies which will help to enhance standard of education and training systems. However it is essential that the government should provide facilities to those institutions that are providing online education and assure that e- learning should be easily accessible by all groups of society.

The Writer is a freelance writer. She can be contacted at sadiawali@hotmail.com