The Impact of Gadget Addiction to Social and Academic Development of Elementary School Students and Their Handling Strategies

Abstract

Development of digital technology has brought major changes in the lives of children, including elementary school students. This study aimed to find out the impact of gadget addiction on social interaction, communication skills, and learning outcomes of elementary school students based on nine relevant academic references. In addition, this research also explores strategies that can be applied by teachers and parents to reduce the negative impact of gadget addiction. This study uses a library review method with a qualitative descriptive approach. Data was collected from scientific journals, books, and previous research that discussed the impact of the use of gadgets on elementary school students. The results showed that gadget addiction contributed to decreased social skills, concentration disorders, and decreased student academic achievement. In addition, the negative impact also includes physical and emotional health problems. Therefore, an approach that involves the active role of parents, teachers, and school environment in controlling the use of gadgets and implementing learning strategies that are more interactive and based on real experience