Students speak of study ‘distraction’

Year 12 Living Waters Lutheran College students have voiced their opinion on the question ‘‘should students quit social media sites before exams?’’ showing mixed views on the rising issue.

A 2010 survey conducted by Oxygen Factory, an organisation of health and education experts, found nearly 80 per cent of Australian students aged 11 to 18 said social networking sites were a distraction from their studies, but Thomas Foster, 17, said it was possible to plan study around social media.

‘‘When exams are coming up I study for roughly two hours a night. I study in one hour blocks then have a half-hour break to go on Facebook,’’ he said.

Mr Foster said it was not necessary to ‘‘quit’’ social media altogether.

However, classmate Matthew Kotzas, 16, said social media sites encouraged ‘‘procrastination’’.

‘‘I think social media is possibly the biggest distraction to youth in today’s day and age,’’ he said.

‘‘When I do start studying for my exam I like to cut myself off from the internet.’’

Alex Turner, 16, had a similar view believing that Facebook was both a ‘‘distraction’’ and an ‘‘addiction’’.

Principal Sue Sullivan said students were advised to set realistic personal study programs which incorporated all of their academic and social commitments.

‘‘We mainly hear about the negative aspects of its use, such as the perpetuation of bullying and its distractions during study time.

However, it can be a very powerful communication tool,’’ she said.

‘‘I am aware of students using social media to study together one on one and in group situations.’’

Acting head of senior school Donna Daniel said the school was exposed to professional developmen