Digital Nation

A Film Review by Reina Angel Remilla

The film "Digital Nation" is a platform for demonstrating how technology has drastically changed
our world, making it appear as if we are living in our own worlds within this world. The film shifted from
topic to topic throughout, but all of the discussions led to the debate over whether technology is
advancing us or holding us back. There are a wide range of subjects covered, but the majority of those
documented are children and teenagers, who are referred to as "digital natives." Digital natives are
people who have grown up with various forms of technology and the internet. Rachel Dretzin, one of
the documentary's producers, spoke about her experience making the film as well as her own role as a
mother of children growing up in the digital age. They also used MIT students to demonstrate how
technology is increasingly intertwining with our daily lives.

The research on Stanford students also piqued my interest because they claimed they could
manage juggling their attention between their studies and other social platforms and that they were
pretty good at it, but it turns out they suck. University professors say they can't give a 200-page book
review because students are more accustomed to shortcuts and taking the easy way out via the
internet. Even though school computers are monitored, students still browse and play games when they
are supposed to be working on classwork. On the contrary, Korean students are exposed to the digital
world as early as possible while also being taught netiquette. It appears to be an effective way to deal
with extreme cases of inappropriate digital behavior or education, and it has been concluded that it is
best to educate and encourage sensible use of technology.

There are numerous discussions throughout the documentary, and each individual has their
own point of view on what technology is truly transforming us into. There are pessimists and optimists
who believe that technology will make the world go round. As for me, I find myself in the middle ground.
Every minute of my life, I am exposed to technology, and I can say that it has both advantages and
disadvantages. I was able to complete this essay in about 30 minutes because I had access to numerous
sources, but it took me about 2 hours to watch the 1-hour film because I was constantly distracted and
couldn't resist the urge to check my social media.

There is no denying that technology has aided human progress, but we must not ignore the
consequences of digital exposure and distraction. How it affects our minds as well, and how it should be
used responsibly and in moderation. Life is a lot better now that we can access any information we
want. It should not, however, be taken for granted. Nothing beats balance in all aspects of life.