TECHNO-STRESS: WHEN SKILLED TEACHERS BECOME OVERWHELMED BY DIGITAL DEMANDS

JINCKY L. MENDOZA

The cornerstones of our educational system are seasoned educators. They have raised several generations of young brains, negotiated difficult classroom dynamics, and endured innumerable curriculum changes. But because technology is advancing so quickly and classrooms are becoming digital, even these experienced educators are now dealing with a new kind of challenge: techno-stress. A form of professional stress that arises from the integration of technology in the workplace is referred to as "technostress." It can manifest itself in several ways for seasoned teachers. It seems like a new learning management system, set of digital tools, and pile of online training modules appear every few months. Even the most tech-savvy teachers may feel like they are treading water when it comes to keeping up with the rapidly evolving digital landscape. Effective technology integration into lesson plans calls for both pedagogical innovation and technical proficiency. It could be difficult for seasoned educators who are used to their tried-and-true techniques to rethink their instruction through the prism of a digital tool. What then can we do to assist seasoned educators in navigating the turbulent waters of technological stress? First, giving educators the know-how to use technology efficiently will make them feel more confident and less stressed. Second, provide educators with chances to collaborate on problem-solving, exchange experiences, and gain knowledge from one another. Lastly, recognize the difficulties posed by technological stress and offer teachers tools to help them take care of their physical and emotional well-being. We can assist experienced educators in overcoming the obstacles posed by technological stress and carrying on with their success in the rapidly changing field of education by offering support and cultivating a culture of understanding. Remember, technology should be a tool to empower teachers, not a burden to weigh them down. Let's work together to ensure that our seasoned educators have the resources and support they need to thrive in the digital age.

-oOoThe author is a Teacher III at Sulipan Elementary School