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May 10th, 2010
06:43 PM ET

Information or Distraction?

In a recent speech at Hampton University, President Obama said that in a 24/7 media environment with iPads, iPods, Xboxes and PlayStations, "information becomes a distraction, a diversion, a form of entertainment rather than a tool of empowerment..."  And he said that puts pressure on students, the country and the democracy.

We know from previous posts that a lot of you text, play video games, and know what's on TV, what's in the news and at the movies.  You're aware of media like no generation before you.  So we'd like to hear whether you agree with the president that all of these technologies are distracting, or whether you think they help you.

Carl Azuz, Anchor


Filed under: Feedback • News Coverage
soundoff (973 Responses)
  1. Naman

    I think video games are a distraction so I agree with the president. I don't think Ipods is a distraction because an ipod is useful for listening to music and playing games on the go.

    May 10, 2010 at 7:01 pm |
  2. Bob

    I think president Obama is wrong because most people work with Music! -__-

    May 10, 2010 at 7:05 pm |
  3. wesley

    I think that technology is good for kids who want to have some free time, but bad for the kids who play video games and are on the computer all day.

    May 10, 2010 at 7:05 pm |
  4. Alleynah

    I agree that they are distracting when it's time to buckle down and do your work, but they help us when we are stressed and need a break.

    May 10, 2010 at 7:06 pm |
  5. Bekah

    I think that in some ways the president is right. Video games are fun, but kids tend to play them more than they study. It puts pressure on students and most video games are getting more and more violent. If gaming companies cut back on the violence kids would be better off.

    May 10, 2010 at 7:17 pm |
  6. Anonymous

    very troubling a us president would warn us citizens about free speech

    May 10, 2010 at 7:19 pm |
  7. Bradley

    These electronics can be either an asset or a disruption depending who is using them and how they are being used. On these machines there are several tools that can either be of good of bad use. Though I have seen these tools be more of a disruption to both their users and the surrounding children.

    May 10, 2010 at 7:19 pm |
  8. Brittany

    I think it could be a distraction. Here is a question, "Would you rather play video games and listen to music or do homework?" You decide.
    I think kids would rather play video games and listen to music.

    May 10, 2010 at 7:25 pm |
  9. Keith

    I think that Media is both a distraction and helpful. It lets us know what is going on in the world around us in the blink of an eye, but on the other hand it also is distracting by kids not doing their home work and playing videogames, and listening to music rather than focusing on studies.

    May 10, 2010 at 7:25 pm |
  10. Jacob

    I believe that some of the technology can be a huge distraction. I have an ipod, and it can get distracting. I don't have any video games, except for the computer. The video games are made to play for extensive periods of time. If you lose once, you want to beat it. You're hooked to it when you should be doing homework. I'm truly glad I only have an ipod, and share 3 computers with the family.

    May 10, 2010 at 7:29 pm |
  11. Kaitlin

    I would have to say both. On the computer you do nothing but messeage, myspace,tweeter ect. It will also help you by finding information on your homework. So, I would be stuck with both.

    May 10, 2010 at 7:30 pm |
  12. Cindy

    Technology can help you, as I've learned in my class. I mean you can use your Ipod or Itouch to watch CNN and listen to podcasts. You can play more academic games on consoles and handhelds. It does become distracting though when you neglect schoolwork and use your electronics instead. It depends on how you use your electronics.

    May 10, 2010 at 7:36 pm |
  13. Trevin

    I disagree because alot of times these devices help us keep track of things and not forget them which turns into good results.

    May 10, 2010 at 7:45 pm |
  14. Brandy

    Some of the technology become distractions, especially when you should be studying. I get very distracted by the computer, the television, and music.

    May 10, 2010 at 7:50 pm |
  15. Chiavoni

    I believe that Video Games among other things can be a healthy distraction from the stress of daily school life. After school, it feels pretty good to go home and get a few tactical nukes on Xbox with some of my friends.

    May 10, 2010 at 7:54 pm |
  16. Lizabeth

    It's some what information and distraction, it Depends on a game your playing if its a learning game like Brain Games its okay, if it's COD (Call Of Duty) and some sort it's a Distraction.

    May 10, 2010 at 7:56 pm |
  17. Carolyn

    It depends on how you learn. If you learn better while listening to your lesson or watching it on Youtube then the technology is helpful. For the most part, as I have noticed among my friends as well as myself, the technology absorbs attention and diverts it away from studies and other important things. In that respect I would have to agree with President Obama.

    May 10, 2010 at 8:02 pm |
  18. Elizabeth

    no i do not agree at all thank you we can keep ot

    May 10, 2010 at 8:03 pm |
  19. Michael

    I do think that they can be destracting at times (Especially if you play COH) but i think that it is a good way to waste time on road trips, running, etc.

    May 10, 2010 at 8:05 pm |
  20. Autumn

    I disagree with Obama most media helps you learn like those leap pads for little kids they help you learn.

    May 10, 2010 at 8:09 pm |
  21. Berekia

    i think its information. with out computers, pairpod, iphone, how would we do research. or make sure familys all right.

    May 10, 2010 at 8:10 pm |
  22. Jeffrey

    I believe that technology can be used for great purposes. It is how we use it, and if we use if for the right things that matters.

    May 10, 2010 at 8:35 pm |
  23. Nathan

    The media we use everyday helps students in their everyday lives. But if you abuse it, then thats your own fault, NOT the media's!

    May 10, 2010 at 8:42 pm |
  24. Allie

    These items are educational and resourceful. For instance, you can get a CNN Student News podcast that keeps you updated with current events. You can also buy apps that enhance creativity and help in everyday life. But, these items can be a distraction if not used with self disipline.

    May 10, 2010 at 8:48 pm |
  25. Kevin

    I think that these devices are information that can help us in the future. Sometimes they can distract us but they are still useful. An iPhone is a good tool to learn with.

    May 10, 2010 at 8:50 pm |
  26. Skutchie

    What?!? That's nonscense! Technology helps us learn. Some games are educational. Apple products are convinient in many ways.I don't think they are a distraction.....

    May 10, 2010 at 8:50 pm |
  27. Olivia

    I think there are two sides to the story. Kids want to have lots of things for fun, but they know it will only distract them. Although, it could also slightly give information if it is educational, or if it will help you with your daily life.

    May 10, 2010 at 9:02 pm |
  28. Hilary

    Although some things are real distractions like your DS or your PSP, I don't think technology is a distraction nowadays, because we use it as a source for many things. And even if all forms of technologies were taken away from us, it would even be a bigger distraction because we're already used to everything we have.

    May 10, 2010 at 9:03 pm |
  29. Natalia

    I sort of agree with Obama. Some of Information from technology is distracting from the REAL world but at the same time you can learn a lot from it.

    May 10, 2010 at 9:10 pm |
  30. Jack

    I see both sides of the idea however i do know that it is a distraction and needs to be controlled but at the same time this shouldn't be a priority of the country

    May 10, 2010 at 9:25 pm |
  31. Josiy

    I think that modern technology is often abused by young Americans, but what would we do without it?

    May 10, 2010 at 9:30 pm |
  32. Huang

    That reminds me of the so-called "screenagers" who cannot live without looking, even touching now, screens of all kinds. What's ironic is that I'm still typing in front of a screen and thinking about whether the impact of media is distraction or not. From a popular magazine I bought and read through just yeaterday, an article pointed out that young people nowadays tend to read less and less paper-made books because their daily lives are seeped in various high-tech gadgets, including cell phone, TV, PC, laptop, MP3, MP4, PSP and digital camera, to name just a few. It's not only about radiation or bad-to-eyesight thing, I think the president's comments are partly true. But maybe he went too far. I just can't see why media enviroment will affect democracy. If that's the case, Democratic Party would disappear in the near future because our generation has no idea what democracy refers to and cannot be nominated as a Democrat. Plus, maybe no American in the future would pursue democracy? Don't you think this's rediculous? But I do agree with the president that these media-born tools have started to rot us like what a caterpillar does in the apple core. Media is a ripener direly prematuring our children who should otherwise run and jump under the sun. An avalanche of information, most without direct screening or sifting, crush us into dull recipients, who love sharing online, or through texts, or whatever, not through face-to-face cummunicaiton. Some of us become uncomfortable when they have to look into others' eyes and only feel at ease when a screen is in front of them. It's not that we ought to steer clear of all the media (which I don't think it's possible. ) whereas restrictions and self-awareness should be put into action. Maxing out our energy during the day by living with media is not wise at all. Young digital muppets should haul them out of media contagions and walk outdoors to raise the bar of our life. The recent financial implosion in Greece has left us into a shocking mess, then what about a media implosion?? I don't think it's very funny...

    May 10, 2010 at 9:31 pm |
  33. Tori

    With access to almost everything, it's almost impossible to stay focused on the benefits of technology. People take it for granted and don't use it wisely.

    May 10, 2010 at 9:33 pm |
  34. Alec

    False or biased in formation can be a distraction however if there is just the cold hard facts then it can be a tool for unbelievable empowerment. After all knowledge is power.

    May 10, 2010 at 9:43 pm |
  35. Courtney

    I think that freedom for pre-teens helps their education because they are pretty much getting rewarded for the good grades they get in school.

    May 10, 2010 at 9:48 pm |
  36. Anthony

    It depends on what the kid is searching. If they happen to go on the computer and look for iTunes, and search for music like Lady Gaga, of course that information is a distraction. Even so, I have a Playstation 3 that can search the news and weather reports, and those are educational.

    May 10, 2010 at 9:48 pm |
  37. Miranda

    It's more of a distraction. You play, get addicted, and then you come home and play video games for the rest of the day. Where does the homework come in?

    May 10, 2010 at 9:53 pm |
  38. Ana

    Ithink the i-pod or i-pad gives us information , but i don't believe videogames give us information. There are some apps on the i-pod that are very useful in school.

    May 10, 2010 at 9:59 pm |
  39. CJ

    I'll keep it short and simple. Obama wants control over the information, and we see in history that it is easier to control the uneducated. I will not bore you with proof because if you don't know what I'm talking about, I won't be able to convince you.

    May 10, 2010 at 10:06 pm |
  40. Olivia

    I think there is an apporpriate time for all technology. Personally in the classroom, I believe that technological communication devices could become an unessecary distraction, due to evidence already supporting that cell phones are a major distraction. I also believe though that there would be an advantage to having information technology in the classroom and communication devices in order to communicate information between classrooms around the world in addition to teacher lectures. Although, internet access restrictions would seem to fix distraction problems, there are always going to be students who take advantage of the priveledges given to them and all you can do is punish them and hope they learn what they are really missing out on.

    May 10, 2010 at 10:23 pm |
  41. Goggle girl

    I think that the technology help us such as I use my laptop to check my online grades or study for my tests. they can be a distraction ,but only when they are over using facebook or games.

    May 10, 2010 at 10:53 pm |
  42. Eddie

    I agree with Obama because when I had no ipod touch I had As but now that I have an ipod I'm failing some of my classes.

    May 10, 2010 at 11:02 pm |
  43. Andy

    I believe that Pres. Obama is saying all technologys are becoming a distraction which if it wasn't for technology we wouldnt have our daily facts and news to keep us updated like cnn student news

    May 10, 2010 at 11:03 pm |
  44. Travis

    who cares as long our younger generations are succeding in their daily lives.

    May 10, 2010 at 11:06 pm |
  45. Sulliven

    To some people,it is entertainment while to the others it is not.That all depends on your attitude.

    May 10, 2010 at 11:09 pm |
  46. alisa

    truthfully i think we need to use every thing we have if we didnt it wouldnt be here!

    May 10, 2010 at 11:18 pm |
  47. Trevor

    In my opinion electronics distracts us – kids – from everyday life and takes us out of reality. I have an iPod and when I use it i can't get anything done, they should be made with a self destruct button.

    May 10, 2010 at 11:52 pm |
  48. Ramsey

    I think playing video games and computer is a distraction because this makes us lazy.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:18 am |
  49. Steven

    I agree that technologies like Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, etc are entertainment rather than a tool of empowerment, but at the same time the hype these days is social networking. These tools might not be empowering in the sense of generating new knowledge but they do a great job of getting information around quickly.

    However, I think these services will die out in the near future – more open and less intruding technologies are on the horizon – and hopefully we can move back to generating new knowledge and spreading that knowledge.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:26 am |
  50. Robert

    “You’re coming of age in a 24/7 media environment that bombards us with all kinds of content and exposes us to all kinds of arguments, some of which don’t always rank all that high on the truth meter. With iPods and iPads and Xboxes and PlayStations, – none of which I know how to work – information becomes a distraction, a diversion, a form of entertainment, rather than a tool of empowerment, rather than the means of emancipation.”

    I have no idea what he meant? Is my Playstation giving me biased news? Is my XBox not giving me all the facts? How exactly does he think these are sources of Media?

    If the only news you get is from your XBox you are under informed; but the same is true if you only get your news from your electric toothbrush. And I don't think I'd call it misinformed, more irrationally insane thinking my Playstation is giving me any news or arguments at all... much less news that doesn't rank high on the "truth meter".

    May 11, 2010 at 12:33 am |
  51. Natalie

    I tend to agree with the President because all the latest technology like the ipad, ipods,etc. have become things we all want and they do distract us in ways. Don't get me wrong but you could learn something from the technology, it is something that will continue in our futures and become something that we all eventually will know how to use. It's just a matter of using the technoloy for the right purposes.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:47 am |
  52. Gustavo

    I think president Obama is right because now in days, people use technology more as a distraction and not for a source of information.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:09 am |
  53. Lynn

    As a high school teacher, I can say that President Obama is completely correct. The constant need for quick "sound bites" of information presented as interactive games with rewards distracts from content. Since anything that requires deeper thought is avoided by many students at all costs, we have started to see overall achievement decline. These same students do not seek to understand but rather to simply get an answer by any means so attempted cheating is at an all-time high. We can thank sites like "Cha Cha" for the highly popular trend to outsource learning.

    Clear communication of any kind is at a virtual standstill with the constant need to "tweet" unnecessary details of life. This barrage of useless information is like email spam but instead of some criminal trying to scam you it is your own friends and family blinding you with things that in live conversation would frequently fall under the category of TMI.

    Countless hours are wasted daily by teens text-ing mundane conversations that verbally would take seconds. Of course these same teens complain they do not have time to do their homework while they sit at home playing with their 15 different videogame/tv/phone/text/music/computer/facebook/myspace/tweet machines. Open a real book? Are you kidding?

    One of the most ridiculous things I've seen are teens standing around at a dance text-ing other people at the same dance.

    When does quality start to outrank quantity? When is enough, enough?

    May 11, 2010 at 1:31 am |
  54. Epyon

    "It’s difficult to remember a whinier American president. If this man’s skin were any thinner, it would be diaphanous. "

    Thin skin?

    Sure Obama....distracting for you and your agenda. The more we dig, the more we find out, the more we share the more we know..and you are not looking good at all. You Cannot control free Speach...just try it

    The iPod stuff pales compared to his complaint about people having too much information. Weird, too, since his whole campaign was based largely on using social media, etc. to communicate

    May 11, 2010 at 1:59 am |
  55. Miguel

    It's not the governement's job to tell what we can and cannot see or read. If your employer doesn't want you surfing or commenting, then they have every right to fire you (unless you're in a union).

    I know I don't need the government telling me what sites I should read or what comments I should make or even what information, good, bad or otherwise, I should be allowed to have access to.

    In an environment of communication people will always gravitate towards the truth. We are not Venezuela, Iran, N Korea, or China where they ban internet communication and control the major media outlets.

    Here, they only control the media outlets – internet remains free where we can fact check the global warming fraud, and the collapse of European sociaIism - which is not being covered properly by the MSM, the lie of omission.

    May 11, 2010 at 2:02 am |
  56. Zack

    The iPod stuff pales compared to his complaint about people having too much information. Weird, too, since his whole campaign was based largely on using social media, etc. to communicate

    Here comes the government controlled media- Chavez style. I do not know why he continues to make a fool of himself. Campaign time again.

    Free speech was just fine with these liberal when Bush was president. What are they afraid of

    May 11, 2010 at 2:22 am |
  57. Kyle

    I feel as though there is a fine line that many of these technological devices have balancing on top of the fence of pro's and con's...in todays society technology has made us become lazy...i mean there are good uses for these items but not everybody uses them for their good health...lol I believe Obama is right in fight that many entrepreneurs are looking for ways to catch the public which i would say is a "distraction" and since there are so many it does become overwhelming at times...now-a-days you have 12yr olds texting at the dinner table or refusing to do school work becuz he has to play his COD or whatever the game may be....its just something that is going to inevitably unfold and with the new generations it is definitely gonna be a task to overcome and not allow technology to distract them from whats really happening around them...some of the greatest technology known to man is the senses we possess and we are starting to lose that basic-ness...just something to keep an eye on

    May 11, 2010 at 2:36 am |
  58. Clark

    Why should the government be able to decide on our ability of accessible information? Information should always be avaliable, even if its stupid.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:03 am |
  59. Erica

    I guess it's up to us, because what matter is how we use it.
    And even if they have many negative sides, we can't live without these technologies today, can we? They are part of our lives.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:23 am |
  60. Charles

    For the most part I see it as a Distraction. Today I have spent more the 12 hrs on Facebook. This is not usually the day but for some reason today I just couldn't get my head out of my Mac. Yes I use it for school and my wife attends school online, but my kids spend more time with their faces in their iPod, PC's, Cells and the TV. I have to force them to play outside, force them to ride bike with me, force them to come sit at the table for dinner. I'm making changes in my home, I refuse to loose my family to the world before they actually become teens and it's too late. I sit in restaurants and watch other parents let their kids be babysat by DS's and iPods and portable dvd players. I will not let this be my families life.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:20 am |
  61. Kevin

    I don't think that a Xbox, PlayStation, etc. is a distraction. Its simply a form of entertainment that also allows you to connect with the world.

    May 11, 2010 at 6:30 am |
  62. Kristen

    Some things can really be a distraction , like Texting and some video games . It depends on which one you are playing.

    May 11, 2010 at 7:04 am |
  63. Yan

    Well...anything could be a distraction. I guess it depends on how we make use of technology and how much we really treasure what we got. Having more information always help. No matter it's good or bad. It helps us judge better.

    May 11, 2010 at 7:06 am |
  64. Holly

    Not many people use the computer as a source of information many people just use it for going on Facebook or other social networking sites.
    Not everyone is is going on these sites many people just want to know whats going on in the world so they look at the news.

    Anyway what is President Obama going to do take these devises away from every kid in America. We can't really do anything about it except don't go on the computer as much.

    May 11, 2010 at 7:12 am |
  65. Emily

    I agree with the president and I disagree with him because you can get distracted by this stuff. You can also learn from it because an ipad if it has wy fi than you can surf the internet to se what is happening in the world besides all the games that distract you i disagree with President Obama.

    May 11, 2010 at 7:23 am |
  66. Judy

    I admit it. I love computers and computer games and cell phones, but I have to agree with President Obama. I think it's a distraction. If you have a computer with you while you're studying, You might get overpowered by thoughts that are well, about good stuff about the computer, like U can play games on it. or I SO need to chat with my friend. and stuff like that. So in the end, you might lose the fight, and stop your work and start serfing the web.

    And as for video games, they're bad too. So pretend you've got a new game. and you're thinking I want to play it I want to play it I want to play it over and over again, and your mother orders you to do your homework, or you have work to do, and you know you can't play the game untill you finish your work. And you still want to play your game, right? So even though you're doing your work, you're mind is on the game. So you can't do your work THAT well, right?

    Anyways, my point is this. I think the "electronics' are usually distractions.
    True, you can get information on the computer, and sure, some games provide you fact. But most people spend TOO much time on it.
    So be wise and use your time wisely.
    If you still can't do it, repeat this line in your mind over and over again.
    What I'm doing is a distraction, What I'm doing is a distraction.

    May 11, 2010 at 7:36 am |
  67. Chiavoni

    Video games among other things can, of course, be taken a little too far and become an unnecessary distraction, however, they can often also become a healthy distraction. Coming home from the stressful daily life of school and hopping on my Xbox with some friends relieves a bit of the stress

    May 11, 2010 at 7:54 am |
  68. Barack

    what was said is true because those who are never introduced to screens will be able to concentrate better doing their schoolwork and nowadays kids bring in their ipods and iphones to school and secretly listen to them while the teacher is talking so they could fail a test just to listen to music

    May 11, 2010 at 8:08 am |
  69. Joe

    I think they are learning something from it.

    May 11, 2010 at 8:22 am |
  70. Fabian

    That reminds me of the so-called "screenagers" who cannot live without looking, even touching now, screens of all kinds. What's ironic is that I'm still typing in front of a screen and thinking about whether the impact of media is distraction or not. From a popular magazine I bought and read through just yeaterday, an article pointed out that young people nowadays tend to read less and less paper-made books because their daily lives are seeped in various high-tech gadgets, including cell phone, TV, PC, laptop, MP3, MP4, PSP and digital camera, to name just a few. It's not only about radiation or bad-to-eyesight thing, I think the president's comments are partly true. But maybe he went too far. I just can't see why media enviroment will affect democracy. If that's the case, Democratic Party would disappear in the near future because our generation has no idea what democracy refers to and cannot be nominated as a Democrat. Plus, maybe no American in the future would pursue democracy? Don't you think this's rediculous? But I do agree with the president that these media-born tools have started to rot us like what a caterpillar does in the apple core. Media is a ripener direly prematuring our children who should otherwise run and jump under the sun. An avalanche of information, most without direct screening or sifting, crush us into dull recipients, who love sharing online, or through texts, or whatever, not through face-to-face cummunicaiton. Some of us become uncomfortable when they have to look into others' eyes and only feel at ease when a screen is in front of them. It's not that we ought to steer clear of all the media (which I don't think it's possible. ) whereas restrictions and self-awareness should be put into action. Maxing out our energy during the day by living with media is not wise at all. Young digital muppets should haul them out of media contagions and walk outdoors to raise the bar of our life. The recent financial implosion in Greece has left us into a shocking mess, then what about a media implosion?? I don't think it's very funny...

    May 11, 2010 at 8:23 am |
  71. rebecca

    i think that it is not a destracksion because we need our ipodes,mp3 players,xbox,playstaion we need that so we will have somthing to do when we are bord at our houses.pres obomba is just makeing that up so he can get everybody to belive him it is not true and don't belive him.

    May 11, 2010 at 8:50 am |
  72. Byrd

    It all depends on what kind of media you're on. Video games, and the like, are most definatly a distraction to the education of students. iPods and MP3s...it depends. You could be using it to drown out noise from the classroom, or to be ignoring a teacher's lesson. It depends on the student's intention.
    As for computers, that's why most schools have a filter in their Internet programs, so that students will be on task and not on online sites like Facebook, Myspace, Gaia and the like...

    May 11, 2010 at 9:04 am |
  73. Cameron

    Of course there is a distraction. but these tools of entertainment have more then just uses for entertaining, the overload of useful apps such as job search app, and ext. these things will help the new generation in getting the new jobs right when there is an opening. it CAn be a distraction, but in now a day society we need this technology to survive.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:17 am |
  74. Justin

    We have blocks on our computers at school. If you do not want us to see those, make the blocks stronger. Also, A study has shown that people who play video games are better surgeons.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:23 am |
  75. Ms. Smith

    As a Teacher the technology can be distractig in my classroom, from students texting to listenimg to their ipods. However I try to incorporate these technologies into my classroom, to show my students how empowering the items they use can be.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:26 am |
  76. Bradshaw

    We believe that technology is not distracting, but helps us learn. Many video games have helped us learn about U.S. wars. Whiteboards and voters help us learn in the classroom. Shows we watch on the History Channel or Discovery Channel also help us learn.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:26 am |
  77. Bailey

    Some of the electronics are good to have when you want to talk to your friends, ask for help with homework, and they are something that i can have that relax me when i've had a bad day.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:47 am |
  78. Jordan & Greg

    There are two sides to this, one it is informational by listening to educational things. The other is that it can be distracting by listening to noneducational things.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:47 am |
  79. Christie

    i agree with the first blog it all depends if its a game that is like brain game snot the games with killing and shotting cause that is a detreatshion not only to you but your family to cause those games just teach you bad things! I think the ipods and ipads are not a detreation cause the music helps yuor brain fucntion right and i are study halls we are allowed to use ipods and things! I dont know if this elps but when i read and lisen to music i seem to do better.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:49 am |
  80. Abby

    It could be both because when you are doing homework or something and you are listening to music it could distract you if its loud but if it not very loud and you can do your homework while listeing to music you wouldn't be so bored doing your homework. so I think it could be both of them.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:49 am |
  81. Abby

    It could be both because when you are doing homework or something and you are listening to music it could distract you if its loud but if it not very loud and you can do your homework while listeing to music you wouldn't be so bored doing your homework. so I think it could be both of them.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:49 am |
  82. MINDY

    I say they are info. for us to use. We use them every day. I get info. on my phone that I didn't know before.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:51 am |
  83. Riley&Austin

    We disagree with Obama because the technoligy helps in school and outside of school with our homework. Also its how we have fun at home.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:54 am |
  84. sara

    it all depends on what you are playing for example brain age is a great informational games for everyone. Halo and Call of duty and other games like that brain wash the mind therefore it is huge distraction

    May 11, 2010 at 9:55 am |
  85. morgan=)

    for some people it can be used as a distraction and other people it can be used as a source of information. It all depends. if you are at school you are most likely to use it in a way that will improve your education if you are at home then yes it will probably be used in a way just to make time go faster. I don't think that the president should worry about what the kids are doing outside of school as much as when they are in school. If the kids are truly supervised correctly at school then they should not have to worry about what they are doing on the computer or ipods.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:56 am |
  86. Alejandro

    NOOOOOO!!!!!!! we need to have technolgy because it gives us joy!!!!

    May 11, 2010 at 9:57 am |
  87. Kelsey:)

    I think that tecnoligy is good because it helps kids with school work but also at the same time it takes away from kids education so i think in that way it is over used but if they use it when they are doen and when they have extra time but only for like a hour or two a day

    May 11, 2010 at 9:57 am |
  88. wyatt

    computers are fun and all but we only got to us them for research in school or projects. The xbox is fun to but i think kids should play them only one hour and other ps3 or ps2 and other games and not in there room all day.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:58 am |
  89. Caleb

    It's how you use it that counts. Too much of anything can be bad.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:07 am |
  90. PFC

    I have always played video games, i love them!!! But.....I will admit that they may have caused [a couple] bad grades.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:08 am |
  91. shane

    It all depends on what kind of games you play because some are good learning ones and some are bad learning ones for use

    May 11, 2010 at 10:09 am |
  92. Dominic

    I agree with mr.prez all they do is rot your brain not make you smart

    May 11, 2010 at 10:11 am |
  93. Gina

    I think they aren not a distraction. The computers and TVs can help us for school. Google and the news can help us to get information.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:12 am |
  94. Ellen

    I think that like anything video games and Ipods and Iphones can be distractions. However, I do believe that you can learn things from them as well. They make video games for younger children that help them learn their ABC's and to count. And I can't describe how useful and how much I use my laptop. In moderation they can be helpful, it's when all they want to do is play their video game or be on facebook is when it becomes a distraction.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:13 am |
  95. Zoe

    Well I appreciate President Obama's opinion, although I highly disagree with it. I believe that it would be hard for students to learn without the power of technology even though some students may not use it for that purpose. If that is the case then they should block these websites that are not for learning purposes.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:13 am |
  96. Grace

    I am going to have to disagree with president Obama. I think I-pads, computers, and playsation are not a discracation to kids in the world.
    President Obama i will have to disagree with you.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:13 am |
  97. Micah

    I m goin 2 have to disagre with President Obama. I have accuactually lerned somting from X-Box 360!

    May 11, 2010 at 10:14 am |
  98. Kathryn

    I think that media can be a distraction, but it can also give you information. Sites such as Facebook can be distractions, as they are slightly addicting but do not help you or provide you with information or knowledge. Other technology can give you information. Our math and social studies textbooks are online, so they can help you learn and do homework. It really depends on what you are using the media and technology for, and how you learn.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:14 am |
  99. Mike

    I agree

    May 11, 2010 at 10:14 am |
  100. Ryan

    I think it is because it is causing kids to forget to do home work and study for tests. also it is distracting kids from exersise. also the gamesmight be fun but they are very distracting.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:15 am |
  101. Danielle

    I think this is a distraction. It is because its causing a distraction in kids school work. The time that they spend playing games should be the time they should be doing there work. I know people whos kids are in danger in failing because they are to busy playing xbox in there room all day. Also they dont want to go outside in the fresh air instead they stay inside in the dark. I would have to say I agree with the president

    May 11, 2010 at 10:15 am |
  102. kaite

    i think this is not a distraction becaues from the ipod or i pad you can look up information and for x box you can upon it up and firgure out how to make the consle or how to make it better

    May 11, 2010 at 10:16 am |
  103. Avery

    I don't agree with Pres. Obama because you can play Xbox or Playstation and study after it doesn't mean it will brain wash you 45 minutes of Xbox doesn't mean you can't study. Also the computer doesn't mean there's not educational studies on the internet. Maybe you can go on Facebook then do your studying or do it the other way.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:16 am |
  104. Robbie

    I dont think this is a good idea because ipads can teach you anything. you can go on anything like you would on a computer and a computer teaches you something. it is also not a distraction because you can easyly turn it off but something like an xbox it may take a while so this may be a distration. plus i dont even play an vidio games like that.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:16 am |
  105. Sydney

    I feel that they can be a distraction but also they are not at the same time. They distract kids when they aren't suppose to be distracted. But when you want kids to be distracted they can be. The kid can be distracted when they need to do school work they won't wanna do it. They will wanna be playing the game. But when you want the kid to be distracted and not annoying their parents it will make the parents happy. So it can go two ways with all of these games. Some games are good but some aren't.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:18 am |
  106. Daniel

    I disagree with the prisedent of the United States. I think technology can be very educational and helpful. An example would be that in the I-pod touch you can get apps for almost everything. this is what i think of the issue.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:18 am |
  107. Daniella

    I have to agree with the president. The ipad and ipod could be usful in many way but is causing too much distraction in there school work. Kids are always in there room now. they are telling there parents they have no hw just to go upstairs in the dark and play games.

    I agree with Obama because when I had no Games I had As but now that I have an ipod I'm failing alot of my classes

    May 11, 2010 at 10:20 am |
  108. moises

    I disagree with the president . ithink ipod's are more like a way of help, because some students use music to focus more but i do think it can cause some distraction

    May 11, 2010 at 10:21 am |
  109. kaite

    I belive that i pods can pive you very helpfull apps will help you with school or work but video games can help you because ther is games that help you with school like trivia games

    May 11, 2010 at 10:21 am |
  110. Michael

    I feel that they can be very distracting. They get kids distracted when they are supposed to paying attention to something else. Kids get distracted and sometimes can get in trouble by it. Sometimes when ever they use those things thats the only thing they pay attention to and forget about some important things.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:21 am |
  111. Danielle

    I think these games are causing a distraction in school work and making more people lazy!

    May 11, 2010 at 10:22 am |
  112. Sydney

    It has to be good games for them. If it is helpful to school relatde stuff. It can help them learn so it can help them. But some games shouldn't be helpful and it would be bad and wouldn't help them

    May 11, 2010 at 10:22 am |
  113. brianna

    In a way i agree also, but i don't because the media is going to put out things anyway that teens/students would want; so it does affect their learning because you have them, in class listening to music && not listening to the teacher .

    May 11, 2010 at 10:22 am |
  114. chris

    i think it is a distraction cause people are always texting during class and it is distracting people who are right next to them or behind them plus people are always driving and on the phones either texting or talking and it sometimes causes wrecks and that is dangerous to do so it is a major distraction

    May 11, 2010 at 10:23 am |
  115. Danielle

    I think president Obama is right because now in days, people use technology more as a distraction and not for a source of information. its making more people lazy these days and just sitting around playing games all day instead of doing your hw

    May 11, 2010 at 10:25 am |
  116. Sean

    I will agree and disagree with President Obama. The reson I agree with President Obama is because students will get bad grades in education. Students would also have less education and that would mean you can get held back or you cannot be accepted into the college you want to go to. There will be always a chance to get all those fun technology. There will be always a way to have entertainment in the future. This is why I agree with President Obama that video games, I-pads, I-pods , and other technologys are a distraction to students.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:25 am |
  117. Tonka

    i think that these devices are very useful when used the right way. but when used wrong, like texting and driving, they could be dangerous.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:30 am |
  118. Alexandria

    I agree that games and other electronical devices can be distractions,.
    but what do you expect when there are not a lot of educational games,songs ect. that attracts our attention for the games and electonics we have. Therefore we play the games that we find interesting and get caught up in them where thats all we want to do.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:31 am |
  119. XueJia

    I sustain with president Obama to a large extent. In fact, we are facing such a plethora of information these days, that we can hardly have enough time to think and create. As a result, I do not bring any equipment that is able to access the Internet so as to study in an "clean" environment which is far from heavy news and reports. And it works. After I made that decision, my study do improves a lot. Accordingly, I am agreed with president Obama's viewpoint.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:32 am |
  120. Lukus

    I think Obama has it all wrong, new technology gives us a near unlimited source of information, and can greatly advance our education.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:33 am |
  121. Curtis

    I think that it is giving us information. When you go on those things you are learning new things by seeing what that thing is like.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:35 am |
  122. Josh

    Information=ipods, ipads, cell phones.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:36 am |
  123. Derek

    I think Pres. Obama is right because people use technology just to have fun. They don't use it for information at all. It also makes us lazy.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:36 am |
  124. Fraser

    My teacher Mr. Templeton agrees that they are useful , but never lets us use them in class, he says they distract us from what he is trying to teach us.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:36 am |
  125. matthew

    i think this could go both ways. one it does teach you things but yet it distracts you at the same time by having stuff you dont need. so i look at that there is some good but not all good

    May 11, 2010 at 10:36 am |
  126. Ciarra

    President Obama is right and wrong in saying that. Not everyone is distracted by technology, I don't even have a computer a home. But some peopel over use it just because it's available.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:37 am |
  127. Chris

    whether it is a distrcation depends on the type of games you are playing. Some games are distracting and some are informative.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:38 am |
  128. Dustin

    I disagree about the iPods and such being a distraction. It is only a distraction if you let it be and I think that they are a good source of information

    May 11, 2010 at 10:39 am |
  129. Mikie

    I think it is imformational and not a distraction like other people think it is like you can learn new thinks from games but not like games that are all gore with blood and guts like resident evil 4

    May 11, 2010 at 10:40 am |
  130. Kody

    I think cell phones sometimes they can be distracting but other times they are helpful if your lost or hurt or something.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:40 am |
  131. Alex

    i think it is not a distraction because when you play it you learn things from the game

    May 11, 2010 at 10:41 am |
  132. kara

    i think that it goes both ways here. It depends on the person. Some people use technology and some people abuse it. Some students will sit there and use it for homework or an important thing, and others will abuse it and just play games and what not. So in a way i think it is a distraction because a lot of people use it for the wrong reasons, now im not going to lie, i use it for playing games and stuff to but maybe its time to stop abusing it and only use it for the right reasons, so i agree with obama.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:41 am |
  133. Lance

    Too much information? Thanks for the advice, Barry, but I can think for myself and will decide when I've had "too much information." Are there really so many stupid Americans that Obama feels completely comfortable saying something like this? And where is the press, once again, when Obama says something that would have led them to excoriate Bush? Seriously, one can only imagine what would have happened if George W. Bush had said, “The American People are just getting too much information and the government needs to do something about that.” He would have been railed by the media and rightly so. The only people who fear too much information are liars who are afraid of being exposed.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:41 am |
  134. Alfrenso

    I think that it is a distraction, if your playing certain games. They're are some games that I think give you information, but it depends.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:41 am |
  135. Tony

    I think its not a distraction because people use them for
    their jobs like what if they had to look up a song for there boss
    on their ipods or ipads

    May 11, 2010 at 10:43 am |
  136. Carl

    I think Obama is way off, he doesnt see the importance of the new Tech. we have acess to an ulimited amout of information with these new devices

    May 11, 2010 at 10:44 am |
  137. Lance

    Lynn – I am so glad that you do not teach children in my school district. One of the reasons we have so many stupid Americans right now is because of teachers who indoctrinate children instead of teaching them to reason. Abundant quantity of information is never a bad thing, unless people are unable to reason for themselves.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:46 am |
  138. Derek

    i think that it go's both way cause we don't need technology but then sum people use that type of stuff for work or to contact friends and family.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:47 am |
  139. Efren

    I think that ipods and phones are not distraction because people plug their ipods to the car radios and people use their iphones at work to look up certain adds. iphones are radios,computers and communication all put to get her.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:47 am |
  140. howard

    i think that the tech is good because business people have to look for adds on the i phones and make importation calls to other states

    May 11, 2010 at 10:50 am |
  141. saxon

    i think it's a distraction because in are study hall at school they let us have are ipods and most people dont get much work done.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:52 am |
  142. cbama

    i don't think what the president said about the media environment is proper.media is just a platform and the media is serving the masses .it just indicate the taste that citizen liked,i think the solution to this issue is strengthening the supervision and the censorship should take the responsibility.
    ps:i'm not a ame citizen

    May 11, 2010 at 10:53 am |
  143. summers

    I think it is a distraction because people have there ipods out in study hall and they never get any work done. They just play games all period.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:54 am |
  144. Ethan

    I agree but only half. Video Games/Social Networks are addicting. BUT they can help cure boredom

    May 11, 2010 at 11:02 am |
  145. Kates

    I think videogames, computers, etc. can be informational and also can be a distraction. It depends on what you’re doing or playing. But most of the time electronics are distracting, especially at school. Kids want to use their ipods or cell phones all the time rather than coming to school and learning.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:02 am |
  146. Mickey

    I do think that i learn from the information overload that we have today but i do agree with President Obama that many times it can become a distraction. I have nothing against technology but everyonce and a while you have to take a step back and be thankful for the simple things.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:03 am |
  147. Kaytee

    Technology is both a distraction and a learning tool. Technology has made us learn so much and connect in ways we never thought possible. However, there are a lot of programs that have become an obsession. Those programs such as facebook and myspace are less beneficial to us.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:03 am |
  148. MichaeL

    Video games and I-pod allow the mind to be freed from everyday life. These are not distractions, they help us live.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:03 am |
  149. Slick

    I think that while video games can be a major distraction, music and television can be very useful. Video games can take us away from our homework as well as keep us from going outside. While television can do the same, it can give us useful information about our future such as weather, the present such as current events, and our past such as documentaries. Music is useful because it gives people culture, through out human history people have listened to music.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:04 am |
  150. Jenny

    I believe these kinds of technology are helpful when they are used to get information or research something, but I also know that many of the new electronics can become a distraction depending on what they are being used for. I believe that they are a bit of both, Information and distraction.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:04 am |
  151. Ari

    I agree that with our generation comes a lot of new types of media, but I also think that some of them are just a good source of entertainment and a way to pass time. Some of them are over used though which could be thought of as a distraction.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:04 am |
  152. Garrett

    Some people use computers and technology for fun. Some use them for learning and information. Some people use them for both. It's all what you like. I think we need to use them because this day of age is all about technology. So if we didn't use them, we would fall behind.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:04 am |
  153. kaylieee

    I believe that these kinds of technology can definitely become a distraction. Kids and teenagers these days are obsessed with the internet, ipods, texting, video games, etc. These things consume hours and hours of your daily life when you don’t even realize it, therefore distracting you from things that should be a priority such as school or work.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:05 am |
  154. Mackenzie

    I agree & disagree at the same time with what president Obama said. I agree with the fact that information can become a distraction, this is because I experience it all the time. Yes when I am on the computer I can get distracted from doing work but at the same time I am still learning new things while I am distracted from work.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:05 am |
  155. Jared

    New technology like Xboxes, playstations, ipods, ipads are very distracting. It is very easy to want to go do something fun or play a game while using these devices when you are supposed to be researching or doing homework

    May 11, 2010 at 11:05 am |
  156. Ryan

    These technologies are mostly for entertainment, but it also makes it much easier to pass the time when your day is boring. Some movies, videogames, and music can be empowering and make you want to get out and go do things. I know that some of the songs on my ipod make it much easier to run to work and that is getting me into shape. The majority of media is just for entertainment, but imagine a life without it. There would be less to do for fun and enjoyment.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:05 am |
  157. Alysa

    I think that videos games are a distraction, but i think i pods arent, for me. Videos games you just sit there and play a game, ipods you can do your homework while you listen to it!

    May 11, 2010 at 11:07 am |
  158. Garrett

    If we didn't use media information then we wouldn't have CNN Student News...

    May 11, 2010 at 11:07 am |
  159. Dan

    I think that the spreading of media expresses the views and opinions of people around the world, and besides, video games improve hand-eye coordination.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:07 am |
  160. John

    Although I agree a little what Obmama said about distracting from studying or something like.. as doing play game, it has also more benefits, so that we need to stress out and ,sometime, enjoy our life .
    Thus, in my opinon play game is information if you do it for your need and you can control yourself.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:07 am |
  161. Jensen

    I do agree with him about electronics being distractions because kids stay up at night being on computers, cell phones, ipods, etc. but the technology today is very amazing and helps us become more knowledgeable.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:09 am |
  162. marcus

    this stuff is helping us get though life. lots of people get jobs from them

    May 11, 2010 at 11:09 am |
  163. zach

    I think the president is wrong because ipads, ipods, iphones, and every thing else in the world end up educating you in some odd way. This is just my opinion so don't bag on me, but I might bag on you. My opinion is it is both to inform and distract

    May 11, 2010 at 11:11 am |
  164. Derek

    i think it goes both ways, cause some of the games could have some good information. but some others could be a very big distraction

    May 11, 2010 at 11:11 am |
  165. dale and joey

    we think that it is both, ipods x-boxs can be distracting and can help understand tecnology

    May 11, 2010 at 11:13 am |
  166. Spencer

    It is a MAJOR distraction to us, they will never stop from making more advanced ipods, ipads, xbox's, they are problaby working on more advanced technology right now. When is enough,enough? Pick up a book, play a board game, r u serious?

    May 11, 2010 at 11:13 am |
  167. nikki

    i think it is adistraction make me sound lazy and do not thing.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:14 am |
  168. Stefanie

    In my opinion, I also believe that it depends on the game or technology being used. When it comes to games, the choosing the ones that exercise your brain rather than convert it to mush, means it wouldn’t be a distraction. It would also depend on the type of television show you’re watching, it wouldn’t be a distraction if it was educational. So I think that today’s media and technology could fall in either category.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:17 am |
  169. Danielle

    I do think that many things in peoples lives are a distraction. like for instance watching tv all the time or on the computer, but we also learn information off those same distractions. i think that many people can not live with out technology but should learn to do not always rely on them.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:21 am |
  170. Bailey

    It comes between yes and no. Some of these can improve our life, like wii fit and pictochat

    May 11, 2010 at 11:21 am |
  171. Emily :)

    I think that it depends on what you are doing, because if you are on the computer you might need to research something on the internet.....With an iPod touch's they have internet on it so you could also use that for information.....it depends!!!!! :)))

    May 11, 2010 at 11:22 am |
  172. Clay

    Well us kids need technology to relax and be kids for a while. I have an xbox 360 and i play Halo 3, and Drive Green. It teaches me about farming and about crops.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:23 am |
  173. Kyle

    I mostly agree with President Obama because I think that most kids growing up now are to dependant on electronics and don't go outside and play. Most kids now couldn't tell the difference between a Norway Pine and a Jack Pine, just simply because they don't do anything beyond video games and texting. Electronics distract from homework yes, but in moderation they can be nice to have with for communication or research but not over using these objects. I believe President Obama is correct in telling the student body to not go to much into electronics [and games].

    May 11, 2010 at 11:23 am |
  174. Ty

    No it is not a distraction it is a too for learning, I have leaned to follow a beat from listing to my ipod and i have gatheredfast reaction time from playing "Call of Duty" on my Xbox it help me with reaction becaues every time you play its always diffrent so yo cant memorize the game and it is a learning game as well the system remebers what you do so you then have to stradigize in order to gain victory

    -Ty-

    May 11, 2010 at 11:23 am |
  175. Dani

    I do think that many things in peoples lives are a distraction. like for instance watching tv all the time or on the computer, but we also learn information off those same distractions. i think that many people can not live with out technology but should learn to do not always rely on them.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:23 am |
  176. Trevor

    I agree with Lisabeth that it depends on what game you are playing if it is bloody and fighting it is a distraction but if it is a learning game then it is not a distraction

    May 11, 2010 at 11:23 am |
  177. Mary

    I think it's information because when kids use those kinds of electronic devices we learn hand eye coordination and knew information we didn't know before. I believe that they were created to make us more computer smart!

    May 11, 2010 at 11:24 am |
  178. Tiffany

    I think that computers and iPods are good for you because on the computer you can learn things and do research. On some iPods you can get in the internet and look things up. On others you can listen to music whether it is rock, country, or church music. Some songs have a meaning and others don't. They aren't necessarily distracting because in your free time you can listen to your iPod of get on the computer and learn things at the same time.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:24 am |
  179. Larry

    It depends on what playing. Some game systems can be a distraction but others are relaxing. Certain things can teach us a lot.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:24 am |
  180. Johnathan

    Entertainment is a distraction.....that is why it is entertaining. People need to learn how to manage their time wisely and always challenge themselves. Remember you always have a choice...now that is empowerment...

    May 11, 2010 at 11:24 am |
  181. Kyle

    I agree because media such as Fox News is so one sided that it doesn't give legit information or the whole story. Then you have games that kids sit and play for 4 hours aday instead of reading or studying.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:25 am |
  182. Olivia :)

    I think that technology is a good but bad thing because for some kids it is a destruction because they just use it to mess around in there free time but others need it for homework?........It depends:):):)

    May 11, 2010 at 11:25 am |
  183. Annie

    I think technology is very useful and can be educational. It helps you when you need resources. It can sometimes be distracting though. It all depends on what you're using the technology for and what technology you're using.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:26 am |
  184. Heather

    I think technology can be very useful when you need educational resources. There is a time and place for certain technology to be used for entertainment.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:26 am |
  185. Sam

    I disagree with Obama because some people work better with music playing or with noise in the background. I dont think it is distracting because the child is really the one who desides if they learn or not. Its not the electronics fault.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:26 am |
  186. hank

    i think that video games are good for youbrng people because it gives youstradegy and teaches things you would never know in school and plus it teaches it in a fun way . like the game brain age it is fun and you have fun wile you learn.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:27 am |
  187. Cassie

    I think some technology can be distracting but it does come in handy and it can be really useful. You just have to use it right and be responsible with it.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:27 am |
  188. sophia

    Some of the devices can be helpful..but most of them are just to play games, comunicate..etc some kids might be able to control how much they play with the games but some might just play 24/7 and not get other things done.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:29 am |
  189. Zach

    I think that it helps you because I play Xbox360 all the time and I think it gives me hand eye coordination

    May 11, 2010 at 11:29 am |
  190. Monty

    He is right distraction with ipods and ipad are a distraction

    May 11, 2010 at 11:30 am |
  191. Matt

    I think this is a joke. The president is saying that technology is a distraction because it makes it easy to get the truth instead of listening to his lies.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:47 am |
  192. Tyler

    I think that video games are a distraction and a waste of time. If you like video games, you should stop playing them and get outside and enjoy life.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:51 am |
  193. kaleb

    I think that using xbox adn ipods and things of that sort is NOT a waste of time. I think it helps you in learning how to use technology. It can give you good information and bad information. All the information we get from ipods and things can be wrong and it can be right.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:51 am |
  194. Rodney

    I think that using all of this extra technology is a good thing because it can keep us a way from all of this bad stuff like gangs and smoking...and...drugs. It isgood cause when ur bored u can just go down and sit and play some games. Plus you get to interact with all these other people from different countries.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:52 am |
  195. jimmy

    I think that they are huge distractions because once you get hooked on them you can not get off them and also they make you spend your money on virtual thing such as sacred seasons all you do is you lose your money!!!!!!do not buy them

    May 11, 2010 at 11:53 am |
  196. Anonymous

    I think everybody should know how to use a computer , Wii, box, ipod

    May 11, 2010 at 11:53 am |
  197. Haley

    I think that it is a destraction kids get to exited about it and take advantage of it. So yes.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:53 am |
  198. Trent

    Games and stuff are a distraction but you can learn from some games too. Games are a thing you do when your bored or just nothing else to do. Computers arent really a distraction until you get into the games and stuff.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:54 am |
  199. kaitlyn

    I think that its a good thing that we have laptops and ipods and MP3 players they help us the help us learn how to reserch for our test papers and we can talk to people like family. I think that for people to blame the media is rediculus you just dont do that. These things help us in our every day life.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:54 am |
  200. Hank

    Wow! I love the technology, but I do find myself spending too much time gaming and using social networking sites. Maybe I should go outside more often.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:54 am |
  201. straight

    video games are the best!!! Gaming is my life and is my profession!! i Game about 6 hrs a day ! Video games make me happy

    May 11, 2010 at 11:54 am |
  202. austin

    I think everybody should know how to use a computer , Wii, box, ipod

    May 11, 2010 at 11:55 am |
  203. Cheyenne

    I think it depends.Certain games can be bad for you and some can actually teach you something.Like when little kids play those leapster games it helps them learn how to read. Ipods,iphones and ipads are also educational in certain ways such as they have different apps that you can upload like on the ipad you can read books and do other educational things.The only bad things about playing video games is that they kill your brain,and thats all some kids do all day and there obssessed with it.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:55 am |
  204. Caitlin

    I think we should be able to have video games and whatnot because thats how kids these days get through their daily life. We might get rewarded with these technology devices for recieving good grades or succeeding in something you didnt think you could accomplish. But then again, a bad thing to all of this, is that children can get addicted to these video games and not do anything with their life, but sit at home and not do anything productive.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:55 am |
  205. Quinton

    I think that it can be distracting, but it can also help. If you don’t overdo it, it just a way to be social with your friends. Some people will let it take over their lives, though.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:56 am |
  206. Rebecca

    Some technology can be distractions, and others can be helpful to the community. Game Boys, Play Stations, and Nintendo can be distracting, but things like Facebook and My Space can help people keep in contact with others, like family and friends. Things that aren’t very important can be major distractions, but I think it’s a smart way to keep in touch with others.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:56 am |
  207. hunter

    mr.preident if you think that video game and ipods and ipads are a distraction. then you are not thinking of the world can do wth this new tecnology.we can look at a persons who is seriuosly injured and find the problem quickly.the i pods are entertaining.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:56 am |
  208. Alfred

    I think that technology can be distracting but it can also be a source of information. Most of the time we need to use technology at school for information. However, some kids are using their iPods, iPads, ect. too much, making it a distraction.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:56 am |
  209. Dolan

    I think that all of the things that we have are distractions. In school, I see many people that use I pods or a hand held game. We need to not allow there things in schools anywhere except our homes.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:56 am |
  210. Christoph

    I think that it is both informational and distracting! Social websites can distract from school work and other activities like playing outside. It can also help you to find information quickly for school or other things.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:56 am |
  211. Anonymous

    Information is a distraction when you let it be a distraction. You do this by choosing what information you take in. We have all this technology to make things easier, and we still want more. We are getting lazier.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:57 am |
  212. Maddie

    I think technology has its pros and cons. Technology is a good thing when it comes to studying and getting help and information online, but when kids and adults get obsessed with video games and other devices for nothing important other than playing then thats where i draw the line. I mean if you go on maybe once a day to check your email or to play one or two games and study is fine. But when people are on it all day and obsessivly overusing these devices i dont think its healthy!

    May 11, 2010 at 11:57 am |
  213. Abbey

    I think that President Obama is in a way Informational and a distraction. I think that it’s informational because if you are on like facebook or something like that then you have a way to keep in touch with your family and friends that you can’t see very often. I think that it could be a distraction because if you play a game like all the time that isn’t a brain type of game or educational and you play it all the time then that I think is a distraction.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:58 am |
  214. Jim

    I do not know whether to say that Xboxes, iPods, etc. are a distraction or not. I say this because I love video games and my iPod; however, they will distract me occasionally. So I guess that they are a distraction, video games, anyway, not iPods.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:58 am |
  215. Joshua

    quoteing robert:

    "I have no idea what he meant? Is my Playstation giving me biased news? Is my XBox not giving me all the facts? How exactly does he think these are sources of Media?

    If the only news you get is from your XBox you are under informed; but the same is true if you only get your news from your electric toothbrush. And I don't think I'd call it misinformed, more irrationally insane thinking my Playstation is giving me any news or arguments at all... much less news that doesn't rank high on the 'truth meter'."

    You're not understanding. Obama was talking about the internet compatible equipment, not the just gaming aspect.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:02 pm |
  216. Maria

    Definitely a distraction, I don't own any of these things nor have I played video games and I believe it is just another way for kids to waste their time instead of studying.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:08 pm |
  217. Wesley

    I think that video games teach new vocabulary and help you to develop strategies. Unless you get addicted to a game, video games help you learn and entertain free time.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:12 pm |
  218. Bryan

    I think the grammar on this page is a great indication of how technology, in the wrong hands, may serve to distract some people. There is a lot of misused, missing and redundant punctuation. I think that’s one problem that may be conducive to a generation raised on micro-blogging, texting and instant messaging. In its defense, Technology has help spur international commerce and communication to support a global community that is globalizing human rights and compassion. It’s like nuclear technology in the sense that it can be used to light cities or used to wipe them off the map. I wouldn’t blame technology as much as I might blame parental control and the education system’s failure to convey media literacy.

    Also. Wouldn’t this be a really biased sample? You’re asking people who have access to the internet and people who were searching news feeds. One might suggest that this survey is systematically, albeit probably unintentionally, seeking certain demographics that might selectively target people with similar dispositions.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:16 pm |
  219. Ben

    It is a distraction people get hooked on video games instead of getting hooked on phonix.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:26 pm |
  220. Zach

    Obama is completely correct. 40-50 years ago, our country did not have near the technology we do today and we seemed to be much more successful as a country than we are now. I am in full agreement with Obama that these tools are a distraction.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:27 pm |
  221. Larry

    These new age higgleberrys and what not are absolutely unnecessary and should be banned. That would be a huge step pulling our country back together.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:29 pm |
  222. Deb

    I believe some technology is a distraction, like video games and some ipods and computers. But, computers and ipods can be used to gain information, and learn.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:30 pm |
  223. Timothy

    When used in moderation, these electronic devices cause no harm. Some new devices like the new IPad help me with my studies.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:30 pm |
  224. Juan

    Gaming is where its at! Xbox is my life and if it makes me happy its not a distraction

    May 11, 2010 at 12:31 pm |
  225. Howard

    I believe that we are a generation that have adapted to coexist with technology, and generations before us have to come to terms with that.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:31 pm |
  226. Mao

    I disagree with Obama because technology can be very useful and help students.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:32 pm |
  227. trey

    I believe technology is both informative as well as distractive. Technology is a great asset that can help students in many great ways. However, it is only effective when used for the right purposes.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:32 pm |
  228. Frances

    I LOVE VIDEO GAMES! I love them.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:33 pm |
  229. Kinzy

    I never go anywhere without my ipod.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:34 pm |
  230. Jenayy

    Videos games and ipods are not distractions! They help past time and thats it.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:37 pm |
  231. Billy

    Our teacher, Mr. M, helped our class come to a concensus on this question. We decided that they are a good thing in some ways like getting information, but can be distractions like texting.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:39 pm |
  232. Juan

    I don't believe that technology is a distraction. I
    play games al the time and still earn straight A's.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:40 pm |
  233. ;Dylan

    I think that being so overwelmed with info and technology has unfortunatelly become part of everyday life...

    May 11, 2010 at 12:40 pm |
  234. brittany:)

    I think the game are a distraction to the homework and the mom telling you what to do 🙂

    May 11, 2010 at 12:42 pm |
  235. Ben

    i think they help students. Like in some games it teaches you hisstory of past wars and what it was like. I think it is more entertaining to kids and they can still learn. Also even the learning leap frog games helped me in elemtary and they were fun.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:42 pm |
  236. Jennifer

    I think that techology is useful when necessary for certain tasks or jobs, but I would say if it's just for anytime use it can get to be a distraction for school, work, etc.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:44 pm |
  237. Dannielle

    video games are a distraction. my brother is addicted to our wii and over christmas break it got so bad that he couldn't touch it for a week... he did anyway.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:45 pm |
  238. Muhamad

    I believe Obama is wrong!! It just seems like a waste of time because he doesn't know how to play them

    May 11, 2010 at 12:45 pm |
  239. Tweedy

    I agree and disagree with obama. Some games are distracting but others give information. If he were to take away that technology people can't communicate with friends and families etc.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:46 pm |
  240. Alex

    I think that some of these things are distracting,and some are not.The computer helps you with reports and things like that.Other things like video games will distract you.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:46 pm |
  241. ashley

    I think that they are both informational and distractions. Things such as computers and internet are great places for information, but we take that for granted and use it for entertainment. Things like xbox's and other video game systems are for pure entertainment and distractions... So it can go either way.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:46 pm |
  242. Summer

    i think that some people spend alot of time on distracting game systems, but at the same time, it depends on who it is. I think they can be very distracting, yes, but at the same time it's a new generation and most people feel its a great sorce of entertainment. I thinmk that some people that are onthem all the time should go out and get some excersize because thats why most kids, teens, and adult are becoming so obese; too many video games. So yes, i think they are a distraction and they dont help ANYONE.
    Xoxo-Summer.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:47 pm |
  243. Trevor

    I think it can be helpful and distracting. You can do educational things with all these products, or you can do non educational things. If you mix them evenly then you should be fine.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:47 pm |
  244. Trevyn

    I think they are a distraction even though they are fun to play and everything. The Ipods are fun students bring them to school and play them in class. Then some students go home and play on there Xbox 360 or play station 3. So they can be a big distraction to many people........................................................

    May 11, 2010 at 12:47 pm |
  245. Maycie

    I disagree with President Obama; these items are giving us useful information and help us out. I mean sure they can be distracting when your doing homework, but you can put them away and do your homework. I listen to my ipod when I run and when im doing chores, it helps me work faster, therefore I don’t think they are distracting.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:47 pm |
  246. Cole

    I strongly think that it is empowering . Some kids do take advantage of it though when they shouldnt. I have a ipod and xbox and i dont think its a distraction at all. Definatly just a accesary 🙂

    May 11, 2010 at 12:47 pm |
  247. Carmen

    I think they are distractions and not informational because you can learn more information in school.Plus video games are not real so sometimes the info you get from them is FAKE!So they're a distraction.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:47 pm |
  248. Carter

    I think some people spend too much of there time on these things. But it is not a distraction all the time. I have an Xbox and I am not on it 24/7. I still play it, but I stay caught up in school, chores, and other important things. P)

    May 11, 2010 at 12:47 pm |
  249. Angela

    I disagree with the president… I-pads, Ipods, and etc are information. Students and such and choose to use electronics that may cause distraction. Many people don’t have enough money to have a I-pod or Xbox so therefore they can live without the distraction. Also many people use their I-pods to provoke them do chores. For instance I listen to to MP3 when I do chores or go to the gym.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:47 pm |
  250. Daneyll

    i don't think ipods are a distraction. i can live without mine but i like to listen to it when i'm doing chores, homework, and it helps me sleep. i also used it to help me learn the songs that i need to know for my musical that's coming up soon

    May 11, 2010 at 12:47 pm |
  251. Payton

    i stand with my country. this isnt something to lose sleep over, so why are we?

    May 11, 2010 at 12:48 pm |
  252. Poco

    I disagree with Obama, you can use technology to find information, sometimes its a distraction, but you can also learn alot more on the interenet than you can at school. Technology can answer alot of our questions, without it many people wouldnt know half the stuff they know today.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:48 pm |
  253. Selene

    I think that some things like video games are a distraction. Others, like iPhones are things that help us research and stuff. But, what am I to say this? I really have no clue whether these things are a distraction or not. I have no right to say this because I play video games all the time.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:48 pm |
  254. mark

    well they can be distracting but they are most of the time more usefull than they are distracting x-box's and playstation's are fun so it's all about moderation if there's something important happening dont go start playing your playstation.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:49 pm |
  255. Kayla

    I think they are a distaction because when you are suppose to be doing something you just sit there and keep doing what you are doing. I know they are fun but sometimes you have to give them up. That is what i think.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:49 pm |
  256. Chesney

    Its an distraction because if you lestin to music an do your homework at the same time,you may not get your homework done.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:49 pm |
  257. haley

    I think that it depends on what you are using it for. I mean some times you don’t want to have to open a book and search it for some thing that would take you a second to pull up on the internet. But I can see were he is coming from with ipods and game systems people spend way to much time on them it’s a shame really.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:49 pm |
  258. ronald

    I am fully aware of the uncertainty of thee economy, however we the people of the United States of America need this technology to preserve the minds of long lasting ages. I feel that we shall need to keep up with the jump in technology. I LOVE W.O.W.!!!!( WORLD OF WARCRAFT) ITS CLASSIC

    May 11, 2010 at 12:49 pm |
  259. Makenzie

    I think that they are distracting people because if your mom or dad says study your spelling words you will get distracted.On the other hand computers give information.So they could be both a good thing and a bad thing.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:50 pm |
  260. Haley

    I think that some games help you learn.They also help little ones that aren't in school yet as in kids that are at home and don't know how to read.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:51 pm |
  261. Gabe

    I can agree that some electronics are a distraction, but not all of it is useless. I've had times where I've used my phone or computer for things like Facebook or MLIA, but I also watch news reports and read the articles on sites like yahoo. It all depends on the person and how excessive they use it.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:51 pm |
  262. Macy

    I disagree with obama because some games help you learn.They can teach little kids to read and do more.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:51 pm |
  263. Bob

    I don’t care if it’s a distraction it’s FUN! When I get home from school I like to play video games or listen to music because it’s relaxing, so I think Obama is wrong.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:51 pm |
  264. Autumn

    I think there a distracting and not good for your eyes.Plus video games are fake and not good for you.So there's distracting.Some games are real not all.So that's why some technologies are good some are not

    May 11, 2010 at 12:51 pm |
  265. Maday

    I think that technology is a huge distraction to kids. Kids who play or spend all of their time on video games, computers, and cell phones have their grades affected. There is some cases where there are informational games, but the majority of the times its not.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:51 pm |
  266. Anonymous

    i think it is awesomeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!! go obama...............

    May 11, 2010 at 12:51 pm |
  267. AlYsSa

    I think that he shouldent talk as much as he does because EVERY time he talks if you watch it it goes down very very very fast.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:52 pm |
  268. Scott

    I think that the majority of it all is a distraction and is a waste of time. I listen to my iPod all the time but am almost always doing something productive. People over youse there items and don’t go outside. Most people that play too much video game are for the most part un-sociable so they might youse “I need to get to a save point to stay inside. Video games can be fun or helpful or yoused for an exuse to stay away from the outside world.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:52 pm |
  269. Kayla

    I think that technology is great use t our environment to find things and what is going on now and days.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:52 pm |
  270. Jayrab

    I think are econimic crisis is putting us in a bad situation and when people are playing video games and computer games all the time its wasting your life. If you have no life, how will you help our econmy. image obama playing some call of duty all day. Thats what all these other people are during.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:52 pm |
  271. Kenzie

    I dissagree with Obama some games are educational,but some games aren't.I think with more educational games it would be fine to play video games.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:52 pm |
  272. Christopher

    Well I think they are actually only for entertainment.You don't actually learn things like math,science,or even reading.They only create a bit of diversion.For example:some one can get adicted to a certain type of game.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:54 pm |
  273. alex

    Yes I agree with the president thank ps2,ps3,xbox36,and psp it is a distaction.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:55 pm |
  274. Joe

    I think it helps.The reason it helps you have to think of how to beat the game.Now if you dont get your protein you need to get outside.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:56 pm |
  275. Casey

    I agree with the president that technology is distracting kids like me.The president is right it doesn't give you information about learning.It's a distraction!People should not just always play there games they should study or play outside instead of playing games like the games the president said.It's a distraction,but you might think it's not a distraction,but I agree with the president.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:56 pm |
  276. Erica

    I think they are distractions because my daddy gets hooked and my brother does get hooked on games.Some times they will keep friends and family away.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:56 pm |
  277. Marina

    I think people should stop putting all of their time on their games and start focusing on school so you can do better in school.Computers give you information about stuff so researching on computers is ok.Playing on computers is ok to,but you don't need to spend all there time on computers.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:57 pm |
  278. Michael

    What's wrong with a little entertainment. I think our country could use some more.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:57 pm |
  279. Levi

    I think the president is right and wrong, because it can be used to do homework, but it keeps children from getting outside and playing and being active.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:58 pm |
  280. Christopher

    Well I think they are actually only for entertainment.You don't actually learn things like math,science,or even reading.They only create a bit of diversion.For example:some one can get adicted to a certain type of game

    May 11, 2010 at 12:58 pm |
  281. Platon

    Information can be useful or a distraction. Media does bombard us with usless information that is considered entertaining. There is a time and place for everything, and the time and place can determine the difference between Information and Distraction. It is a matter of self control. Which I've noticed some of my fellow students lack. Information or Distraction, it is all a matter of how it is used.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:58 pm |
  282. Anonymous

    In some way's I agee with you but man I like playing video game's too but plese don't get reed of video gaaaaaaaaaame's

    May 11, 2010 at 12:58 pm |
  283. Aaron

    I think obama is wrong because video games help children learn how to do stuff like read and how to figure out how to do something one day and do something different the next day because some things on video games can help A lot of children all around the world to make them become better boys and girls and so when they start school they wouldnt have to worry about learning how to read.

    May 11, 2010 at 12:59 pm |
  284. John

    President needs to get off his high cloud of free market bashing. Apple, Inc. is a growing corporation that is contributing to the economic growth of our country. And for President Obama to say that their products are only distracting our students from learning is demeaning to us as students. What President Obama doesn't understand is that there are still benefits of learning coming from these forms of distraction. Just the fact that there is some learning coming about from this technology out ways any possible distractions.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:15 pm |
  285. Kris

    i think it is a distraction because it puts your mind in another world

    May 11, 2010 at 1:22 pm |
  286. kyle

    i believe that mp3 and games are informants because some people can learn a lil bit better when listening to music or playing a video game so informant not distraction.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:22 pm |
  287. Rachel

    I think that MP3s and videogames can be informational as well as a distraction. They can be informational when they are educational and when they are maybe like war games that teach you about guns and what its like to be a solider. They are a distraction when they take kids attention off homework and school work

    May 11, 2010 at 1:29 pm |
  288. Josh

    I think technology is useful. If people want to misuse it and take advantage of it to play games, then that is their problem. However, if people use it for informational purpose, it is a help. It all depends on what people choose to do with the technology.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:30 pm |
  289. Owen

    I feel that Obama is partially correct and incorrect. I agreee that technology could sometimes be a distraction but it is sometimes necessary in daily life like knowing weather and news or stuff for a job.
    Plus it gives you info quickly. Instead of having to go to the computer you could just quickly google it on an iTouch. Obama is right and wrong.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:30 pm |
  290. Noelle

    It depends on how you look at it......Electronics can be considered a distraction, or helpful.. If you need to do homework, for instance, and you are on your xbox, that would be a distraction. But, playing video games could help improve vocabulary and spelling because you see the words on the screen. However, electronics are mostly a distraction.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:31 pm |
  291. Sydney

    I disagree with Obama. I feel that using imformation from computers ect. is great! It does not waste as much paper then just writing things.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:32 pm |
  292. Olivia

    I think president Obama has a point, but i think that these forms of technology can be very and the information is sometimes very useful.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:32 pm |
  293. jonathan

    i think that it could be distracting but many kids love to play video games. It is true that if kids get there videogames taken away they will probably would get better grades.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:33 pm |
  294. Alexa

    I feel that Obama is half correct because children are amused with the electronics and yet they can distract us. It can be a distraction if you make it a distraction.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:34 pm |
  295. Cody

    In our school we use technology a lot and I think Obama is out of his mind.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:35 pm |
  296. Jacob

    I think Obama is wrong! I use technology and it helps me get homework done faster and it is fun!!

    May 11, 2010 at 1:35 pm |
  297. alex

    I PLAY xbox every day.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:36 pm |
  298. Joe

    I think some types of technonlogy are distracting like video games, but a lot of technology is informational like this computer that I am using right now. It depends on what technology your using and how you use it.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:36 pm |
  299. Colton

    I think that kids should not have distraction like those ipods, ipads, Xbox, etc. These electronics kill many brain cells every time you use them. Some kids are addicted to games, so they really never get outside. They need to get outside more and discover Mother Nature.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:36 pm |
  300. Anonymous

    I THINK THAT THEY ARE GREAT FOR KIDS. It is a good thing to do when it is raining. It is a fun time. I play and use them all the time. I love playing games on like I- pods and stuff.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:37 pm |
  301. Elly

    TECHNOLOGY IS VERY HELPFUL!!! it is not a distraction!!

    May 11, 2010 at 1:37 pm |
  302. AUSTIN

    i think we need to keep our technology and i think the president needs to relize how much technology he uses in his job i think the president would regret geting rid of technology a great deal technology helps many many people

    May 11, 2010 at 1:37 pm |
  303. Matthew

    I think that Obama shouldn't take away technology because a lot of people use it and if he takes it away then we would be out of luck!

    May 11, 2010 at 1:38 pm |
  304. Anonymous

    technology is helpful..

    May 11, 2010 at 1:39 pm |
  305. melanie

    do not give your info because if you do then someone can take you info and be you when thery are not you

    May 11, 2010 at 1:39 pm |
  306. Kendra

    i think that technology is a good thing. It can be helpful and it is also a fun way to learn.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:39 pm |
  307. aisha

    i would never give any one your info because u never know who u r talking to it could be very dangeruos

    May 11, 2010 at 1:39 pm |
  308. Gary

    I agree completely that video games and electronic devices are distractions. But that's the reason that we have them. We use these distractions as a way to relax and relieve stress, and therefore they are acceptable as long as they aren't overused.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:40 pm |
  309. Caitriona

    I'm afraid I disagree with our president and I don't believe that computers and other electronics are distractions. I think that they are more information than distraction because they do help you to learn things. At my school there is a class that teaches you how to work the computer. You can use the computer and search engines like google to learn things that you would like to know and answer your questions on everyday things and things that you would like to know. I can see why our president and other people would think such about Ipods, computers, and other electronics, but just think about how much you can learn and stay up to date with these items. Therefore, I believe that they are more information than distractions. =)

    May 11, 2010 at 1:40 pm |
  310. Anonymous

    i think technology is good because we can look things up on the internet if we have computer, and if we did not have cell phones we could not call 911 if we got hurt. and there would not be technology in the hospitls so there would be a lot of dead people

    May 11, 2010 at 1:40 pm |
  311. Conner

    Technology can be used in a good way, too. Without the internet we wouldn't be able to find those tuff questions. The president needs to think before he takes his stand, because a boat load of people play Xbox, Playstation, and the computer; and some people persue a dream in game engineering.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:40 pm |
  312. Neil

    I think that the president is half right with this one. Lets say a student like me has homework, and they have an ipod touch to help them with it. They have one hour to finish the assignment. if they waste their time by playing games, then Barack has a point. But if they actually use it to their advantage(using the calculator,ruler,or notes apps) it is a great plus. I use my ipod for math and language arts homework all the time!

    May 11, 2010 at 1:40 pm |
  313. Randall

    Tecnology is a great tool for learning and for games. It is not a destraction, as long as you don't overdo it.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:41 pm |
  314. Derek

    First of all, the president needs to shut his hole. Second of all, if we don't have technology we don't learn. What about hospitals? We need technology.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:41 pm |
  315. Kesly

    I think its sort of both because u can get useful info. from them but they are very adictive and HUGH distraction.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:41 pm |
  316. Faber

    I think that the President is right and wrong. He's right becuase a lot of kids get distracted by their xbox's, Playstations, Ipods, or Computers, and they can get you in big trouble. BUT technology plays a grea deal in hospitals and schools and stuff like that. It really depends how you use it. So it goes both ways

    May 11, 2010 at 1:42 pm |
  317. Albert

    I think that if you play certain video games are addicting

    May 11, 2010 at 1:42 pm |
  318. Sydney & Tristin

    both. they can teach you many things while growing up. certain games that have to do with money and time can help. they arent good, because they can distract you from school work.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:43 pm |
  319. josh

    I don't think video games are distracting.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:43 pm |
  320. Finn

    Call of Duty is not a distraction!

    May 11, 2010 at 1:44 pm |
  321. Tanya and Justina

    We think that gameing systems are good and bad at the same time. Some games you just might learn form and maybe not but they also can keep kids from doing other things like geting there exersise. It goes both ways...??

    May 11, 2010 at 1:44 pm |
  322. audi

    i think the president needs to think before he says things he says he wants to get rid of all technology what about hospitals he wants to get rid of there technology how will we know whats wrong with people. WE NEED TECHNOLOGY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    May 11, 2010 at 1:45 pm |
  323. Tony

    Obama wants to take our entertainment away. whats next our military, our freedom, or our privacy. it all starts with one thing that they can take from us, then they work their way up.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:45 pm |
  324. austin

    it helps all learn and it is grate for the mind

    May 11, 2010 at 1:46 pm |
  325. Caleb

    I do not think that technology and video games are a distraction. Almost everything I learned come from technology, some video games teach us great vocabulary, and morals. Although some games do not teach you much, It shouldn't give the rest a bad reputation.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:46 pm |
  326. Mike

    I think ipods, ,ipads, cell phones,xbox360s, and all things of that nature are a huge disrtaction I mean ever since the ipod touch came out kids have been dieing to get one and probably when they got it their grades went down.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:46 pm |
  327. jamichael

    I THINK THAT THEY ARE GREAT FOR KIDS. It is a good thing to do when it is raining. It is a fun time. I play and use them all the time. I love playing games on like I- pods and stuff.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:47 pm |
  328. Yan

    I have pretty much grown up with a constant supply of new products.From what I learnt,what they demand most is self-control. I use ipod touch everyday in order to watch news around the world in several languages,and actually it saves me a great deal of time,since you don't need to turn on a Macbook to comment on Facebook.I will get easily distracted with a computer.
    I partly agree with the president,however it's undeniable the great advantages they provide,it helps the globalization,it keeps me updated.it is not considered as a distraction with efficient uses. I believe the children with lack of self-control are more to blame,rather than the new technologies.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:47 pm |
  329. jake

    i think computers and xbox and playsation and all of that stuff is a distraction. they dont teach you anyhting. dthey are just for funn.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:48 pm |
  330. tyler

    distration because it takes too much energy

    May 11, 2010 at 1:48 pm |
  331. Christian

    Obama seems to have gone way too far, by saying we have infromation from electronics as a distraction instead of a tool for "empoerment" In my biased thinking I would like to ask Obama what exactly is he talking about empowerment? This Country it not seeking to empowe other nations of any sort. Obama doesn't seem to also realize that technology has put our country in a good state of advancement...

    May 11, 2010 at 1:49 pm |
  332. Tim

    I think that i technology isn't a distraction... You can use your iphone at work with apps...my dad uses his phone all day and if he didn't have that he wouldn't have a buisness.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:49 pm |
  333. Ekpe

    I think that the electronics like ipods, ipads, Xboxes, and many more are a distraction that kids should not have. They are sucking time away from kids, because they should be outside doing something.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:49 pm |
  334. shayne

    i think that they arent a distraction. im saying this because i play video gemes and have an ipod that i love. it isnt a distraction it is a good source of technology. if obama thinks it is such a distraction i would like to see him run his office and everything on just pen and paper.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:50 pm |
  335. sheldon

    i think that the video games arnt so much a distraction but an obsession. and the ipod i to listen to music not everyone has games on them.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:50 pm |
  336. bri(:

    I think that its alittle of both.I things such as ipods and xboxs can and cant be instructional or disstructional.The can be useful by holding info and the entertsin most people,but its also a brain eater and takes up time.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:50 pm |
  337. Taylor

    I think that the technology issue really isnt an issue at all... you can usae your ipod touch/ipad/iphone at work. My dad uses his phone all day and if he wasnt using it imagine how people would be getting ahold of eachother. i think people should use technology but there are times to use it and times not to use it.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:50 pm |
  338. Brack

    I think that Xboxes, Ipods, etc. are a good thing. I like to listen to my Ipod when I do things outside and it would be wrong to take that away.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:50 pm |
  339. Kacie

    I do not agree with the president about video games and computers being a distraction. People can learn a lot of things on computers and they give you tons of information. If you play video games a lot, that can be a distraction but every once in a while is good.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:50 pm |
  340. braden

    i like to play call of duty modern warfare 2 cuz its a major distraction and i can shoot people and stuff.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:51 pm |
  341. Popejoy

    i honestly believe that it is a good informational resource for all of the student body because not everyone has the time to watch the news or own a dictionary but they have a computer or ipod or laptop etc. so they use their internet to look things up or somthing like that

    May 11, 2010 at 1:51 pm |
  342. Emily

    I think that it isn't and is a distraction depending on the way you use it. It probably shouldn't interfere with school work, like when you take tests and etc., but when you are looking for entertainment and even information, these things can be useful. For example, you can search the internet on iPod and iPads so that can be useful and on the iPad you can also read books now like the Amazon Kindle. So technology can be useful and not always distracting.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:51 pm |
  343. Paulina

    I believe some technology can distract people who use it to much. But with a healthy amount I think people can grow and learn from technology as long as they don’t get sucked into it.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:51 pm |
  344. Jeremy

    I agree with president Obama in most ways, because video games and ipods take your mind of more important things like school work. Computers, on the other hand, they help us learn things on school, etc.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:51 pm |
  345. Jessie

    I think that electronics are mostly a distraction. We use them more and more as a distraction every day. When people are trying to talk to you, you are trying to text someone else. You are addicted to video games to even stop and play outside. You are stuck on myspace and waste hours away, instead of doing homework. Although at the same time we can all learn from technology. We can surf the web for information or on our cell phones. Over all President Obama is correct, technology is a distraction.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:52 pm |
  346. samantha

    yes, i do think video games are distracting. kids dont do their homework do to this and they are addicted to these.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:52 pm |
  347. Kaylie

    yes sometimes people misuse technology, but it is also a great help... like i would not be able to make this post on the blog ... or hear Carl's puns...or even watch CNN student news, so then i would not know what is going on in the world becouse i strongly dislike to watch news at 10 at night or during the day because where i live you are always hearing about shootings, or car jackings, kids don't need to know about that stuff yet... so it is helpful, i say information

    May 11, 2010 at 1:53 pm |
  348. mitch

    it is not at at all goood to be having teheds tings to ave so it is bad fro kides to not be leaarming tings at the scools thak yuo.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:53 pm |
  349. Shiann

    I think they are actually a good recourse for learning. Because in a lot of music has good information on life and there are some educational song out there to. For some they can be a distraction, because some people get addicted and hooked on ipods and or Mp3 players. Same with video games I think that video games are more of a distraction because they are more time consuming. But if you have a limit and only play those games sometimes then they are alright.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:53 pm |
  350. pierce

    its good informaton and brain power.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:53 pm |
  351. Zach

    I think it is both distracting and informational. Yes, it does distract us but it also teaches as well. Some times it is educational or violent. It shows me how to solve a conflict between to thing.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:55 pm |
  352. JD

    i think there is a balence to it. if you use it to waste a way your life perfecting your skil at getting a double kill on ODST(no offence thats like on of my favorite games) it becomes a distraction. seriosly. some of the people on online play had loged like 20,000 hours in the first year it came out. on the other hand i and many others would never get the school assingmrnts we get done without the computers we have. i can relate that personaly today when i finished a paper the day it was due in 15 minuets<-(right spelling?) using word. i also gat an A on it.:)

    May 11, 2010 at 1:55 pm |
  353. Scott

    I agree that those electronics are very distrating for kids with devolping brians. I had an ipod but i got tired of it so i sold it. I seldomly play games, maybe once a month. I usally go outside and play.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:56 pm |
  354. Madi

    I think technology is both a distraction and information. Some people use it for work, and finding information, some use it for learning. But there are, in fact, people that only us it for games and fun. Sure it’s a distraction, but I think it’s a good break from school, and work. Technology is important to have. People also use it for communication. Myself I use technology for communication and just lay back time. When I’m stressing over school it’s nice to just sit back and use the internet, or play a video game.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:57 pm |
  355. gabe

    I believe that technology is a good thing. I am sufficiently involved in the world of technology, yet I have all A’s & B’s. it is a common misconception that just because you use technology you will be distracted and not do as good as you would without them.
    Take nerds for example, they are always using computers, x-boxes, play-stations etc…
    But you don’t see them getting bad grades. On the other hand if someone that’s always texting in class and passing notes and playing games in the computer lab will get very distracted because that is ALL that they do.

    May 11, 2010 at 1:58 pm |
  356. Matthew

    I think that CNN Student News does help me learn. I think It is just like the news. For example the oil leak, I did not know to much about it. After I watched CNN i knew 10 times more than before. It proves CNN helps me.

    May 11, 2010 at 2:09 pm |
  357. Templeton

    there is a lot we learn from playing video games. they improve cordination. and what about the wii fit? it is helping people stay fit in a fun and interactive way

    May 11, 2010 at 2:15 pm |
  358. Lexy

    it really depends on what you are looking up. some of the things you look up can be of a distraction to you, but others can be of great help. for instance distractions could be like facebook and things like that but if people were to use the technology for what the first purpose that it was intended for no one would use it that much and the people that are selling them or making them may not be needed then the unemployment rate would go up. we also need technology that way we can watch CNN STUDENT NEWS every day during school.

    May 11, 2010 at 2:18 pm |
  359. Mr.T

    The technology is so over rated , i'm bored with the way this new generation is addicted to all the technology, it is stupid. this new generation always has to be doing something with it,i'm not against it but it has gone way over board. it has just replaced all forms of human communication. it is pathetic

    May 11, 2010 at 2:22 pm |
  360. Simone

    Some people need these types of technology to provide an escape from the day to day problems on the news. However, it can be distracting when you are using these things in school and you aren't able to focus on your studies.

    May 11, 2010 at 2:50 pm |
  361. Dalton

    I beleive that today's technology is another form of getting information, it helps everyone keep up to date on what's happening. We debate on views almost everyday at school.

    May 11, 2010 at 2:53 pm |
  362. LaFrance

    I think that the technology is actually helping our students learn in different ways and besides, this is a newer generation, whether you like it or not!!!

    May 11, 2010 at 2:53 pm |
  363. Jacqueline

    There have been several instances where I have learned something from a video game or from watching a television program, though at times I agree it is distracting. Nothing is so good that it can't be abused, and nothing is so bad that it can't be used for good.

    May 11, 2010 at 2:59 pm |
  364. dustin

    i think xboxes and ipods are good because a lot of people know that the video games are fake and they know not to do that in the real world.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:06 pm |
  365. Morgan

    I think cellphone are a great way to keep in contact with mom, dad, or
    friends.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:08 pm |
  366. Naomi

    Technology does help us, and can give us a lot of information. I mean, where would we be without technology?

    May 11, 2010 at 3:08 pm |
  367. mr.l

    i am of mixed mind. i long for the day before cell phones. when people couldnt find you 24/7. privacy was available. yet computers, gps devices and yes even cellphones are amazing. in the 60's these devices were sciencefiction and now there everywhere. they are intrusive but handy.

    video games on the other hand are the bane of our society. how many wasted thousands of hours are wasted playing these things! i know the lure because i played pinball (back in the day, ask your parents) but i still had time to go out and play with my friends.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:12 pm |
  368. McKayla

    I think that the use of the electronics are a distraction AND education!
    I think this because an Ipod touch has the internet on it and that’s learning.
    On my Ipod my mom downloaded a pod cast that has my religion on it so I
    Can learn more about my religion!!
    The reason I think the are a distraction is in class some kids text and don’t pay attention.
    Another way the are distracting is some people still text while driving even though
    It’s a law not to do that.
    So, pretty much, the electronics today are a distraction and a education!

    May 11, 2010 at 3:13 pm |
  369. Alec

    Technology has just gotten to a place where people rely on it way to much. I believe that it is useful when you really need, that does not mean you need it all the time. I am of this new generation, and I actually find this technology a new way to learn, rather than a new way to distract ourselves from our education.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:17 pm |
  370. Nick

    I think it hepls because every time when my computer is broken I can just jump on to my ipod and do my home from there.Also when my teacher tells us to reaserch homewrok at home I can go onto the computer.Also if you need to go on facebook or somthing like that you can do that from your Xbox, computer,ipod,and your phone.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:17 pm |
  371. kendall

    i think that it is kind of a distraction if you use technology improperly . although it is an advantage

    May 11, 2010 at 3:18 pm |
  372. Deva

    I think that the information that you get on these devices can be informational and distracting. It depends what it is. If you get a straight out fact from the internet then it is informational. If you are watching a factual but humorous video on an itouch then it would be distracting. It also depends on the tool that your using. If you get information on the internet it is different than on a video game.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:20 pm |
  373. Murray

    I think that all these types of entertainment are distracting because it leads to people being obese. It leads to this because people would rather watch tv or be on the computer then go play soccer or something outside.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:23 pm |
  374. Hunter and Amanda

    I think that it is very educational. Mainly the internet because you can find the answer you are looking for quickly... On the other hand games can be a problem because they get in the way of doing things like homework. If technology is used in the right way it can be a good thing. 🙂 please use this comment on your show we watch it everyday.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:24 pm |
  375. Colton

    I think that it depends more on the people, how they use it, and how he's using the term. If he was being literal i think that it was kinda stupid. i think that its good we have technology because it really helps with searching things... and i also think that it helps with most things but I don't know it's a hard topic to discuss.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:25 pm |
  376. MICHAEL

    I think some technologies can cause a distraction for students because if there is a test coming up, and you’re playing the Xbox instead of studying, that may affect your grade a lot. But not all technology is distracting to students, like the nook. The nook is a touch screen object that stores 1,500 books, and also newspapers. So the nook is not distracting because it can give you information, so the nook can help you with school.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:27 pm |
  377. Emma

    I think technology can be useful in many ways. It may be a distraction to some though. Computers for example they can give you good news info (cnn student news for example). Also what if you need to print something to make it look nicer. Texting another good example it can have some benefits to it. Like if you need to get a message to someone quickly. And I of course can’t forget TV; it can have educational stuff on it. Like the news or one of the presidents speeches. Ipods even can have good things about them, like listening to an educational podcast. People always second guess these types of things when if you just think, you can see the good in them.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:33 pm |
  378. Maggie

    Adults constantly warn us that technology is ruining human communications or that it is making us dumber, or, in this case, it is distracting. This technology is the way of the future, and by telling us to stay away from it they are stunting our growth into the future of society.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:33 pm |
  379. SARAH :)

    I think that this new technology is really distracting kids from their learning abillaty at home because when kids get home they want to play with their xbox or i-pod.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:37 pm |
  380. Stephanie

    I think that ipods are not distracting unless you are just listening to music. But you can download pod cast and you can learn something. For example you can listen to cnn student news on pod cast and you will learn something.Also almost all technology can help you in a way. A computer can by helping you get information. Also a lot of other things to.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:42 pm |
  381. Joseph

    I think that some of these technologies are useful like a phone. Because if something happens and it is an emergency you can get quick. And on an I pod you can buy a podcast and learn some stuff that you did not know about.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:43 pm |
  382. jayla

    It depends on what you are using like if you are listening to music on your i pod it is distracting. But if you are listening to podcasts on your i pod it is not distracting because you are learning something. Also you need media to listen to the news so you know the temperature and what is going on in the world.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:53 pm |
  383. Wyatt

    Kids need their time to relax and that is the time to do it but do not do it when it is so good of a day that you could not ask for a better one go outside.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:54 pm |
  384. Wyatt

    Distraction and don't recomend!!!

    May 11, 2010 at 3:57 pm |
  385. Jimmy

    The president should let them be because they'll find their mistakes when they find a job and they will be learning nothing from playstations, x-boxes, etc. So that's why the president should let them be.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:58 pm |
  386. Salvador

    I think it is a distraction because you are playing your x-box or any video game system instead of doing your homework. Also, you forget all of the stuff you learn because you are getting all that stuff you are playing getting stuck inside your brain. But, also its just like a cell phone you are texting and doing other stuff instead of doing your homework or other work.

    May 11, 2010 at 3:59 pm |
  387. Kenia

    I think that for only some people electronics(i pods, i pad, X boxes, Play Stations) are distractions just like phones. Some people know how to stop but for the rest of the people they don't focus as much when they're thinking about electronics.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:00 pm |
  388. Alex

    I think that technology can distract you , but i depends on what you play or use. Say you use a Xbox or Playstation and you play a action game (blood,murders,etc.) then you`ll get distracted , but say you play a sports game you won`t get distracted.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:01 pm |
  389. John

    Well I think video games are a distraction to our education and my parents took away my game station but its for my own good. Video games are like an evil source that is ready to conquer children's minds.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:01 pm |
  390. Julia

    I think President Obama is right and wrong. He is right because I can be distracted while playing games and most other people can get distracted too. He is also wrong because not all people get distracted they use them for some information that they need and then play with them when the time is right. That is what I think about what President Obama said.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:04 pm |
  391. Jonathan

    To me it information when the people talk in the game.You can try to turn on the the subtitles and u can read and here what thare saying at the same time.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:04 pm |
  392. Katrina

    I believe that using these technologies as a form of entertainment is acceptable. If you are using these items, it does distract you with school work in some schools because that is all you care about. You always want the new thing to be better than everyone else. It does keep you away from your studies sometimes. Some people get upset because you can't buy fancy things like that. It does not keep me away from my studies, but I personally do not own any items like that besides an MP3 Player. It doesn't distract me, but some items you cam become addicted to, like a cellphone. Overall, I believe that using these technologies as a form of entertainment is acceptable. But when you become addicted and cannot focus on schoolwork, that is a problem.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:05 pm |
  393. Ivan

    Well I think that technology can be distracting to kids. It all depends on the "parents." The parents might make the children do their homework as soon as they go home and eat. After they eat they must do chores and when that is finished the they are only allowed to play with the X box 360 or listen to their I pod for 1-2 hours. Technology can only be distracting if you let it be.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:05 pm |
  394. Adrianna

    I think some technologies can be useful, but some could really be distracting. Like the ipod, PS2, X-box, and DS. The cellphone and television can be VERY useful... It depends on what technology comes out.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:06 pm |
  395. Joanna

    I think Mr.Obama is right. Technology is a distraction. Most people spent their time on video games,television,and music items. I've been playing video games and listening to more music lately,and I haven't been doing my chores when I am told. The same goes for my brother.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:07 pm |
  396. Judith

    I think it is a distracting, because, well I sometimes I pay more attention my phone than my teachers or my parents. Ipods are a distraction, any type of video games are a distraction. I would want to play instead of doing our homework or studying.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:08 pm |
  397. desirae

    Everyone has a different opinion and my opinion is that it is a distraction cause i can say right now that a lot of kids are maybe failing cause they just want to go home and just play games or talk on the phone or something they just are not paying attention to their work.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:08 pm |
  398. Matthew

    I love video games, and I don’t think they’re a distraction. Obama please don’t be dissing the electronic era.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:10 pm |
  399. Freddy

    I really don’t care either way. I listen to music, but I don’t own an Ipod. I don’t play video games. A person that has these things though isn’t bad. They can be used for short amounts of time that aren’t distracting.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:11 pm |
  400. Carli

    I think that some technology is seriously overused, but I don’t think it is necessarily a bad thing. Some gaming systems are actually very useful! Take the Wii, for example- There are games for the Wii that help people get in shape! I definitely think that is a good way to use technology. Also, I’ve heard that the military uses “Modern Warfare: Call of Duty” as a training course for soldiers!!!!!!! I think that is also a good way to use technology. I do, however, partially agree with Obama’s statement about certain types of technology being distracting.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:12 pm |
  401. Valarie :)

    I think that technology is a good thing. A lot of people say that it is bad or something but that is just their opinion. I personally think it is a good resource for a lot of things. You can check the weather, update things that are going on, and communicate with other people if something goes wrong.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:13 pm |
  402. ALLHA

    It depends what you are playing or doing on them. If you are on an Ipod touch then it can be both. But if you are on an Xbox then it is a distraction but it is meant to be a distraction it’s there to have fun.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:13 pm |
  403. Fernanda

    I think that its a distraction because some people are really addicted to technology and people need to use there valuable time wisely.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:13 pm |
  404. blake

    I think all the new and even old video games and ipods are all distractions to learning and that kids get sidetracted by the media equipment. Ipods are fun and are enertaning same with video games but they just get in your way when your trying to do school work.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:13 pm |
  405. Nick

    yes i would rather play my ps3 or listen to my ipod or even watch tv rather than do my homework so yeah it is a distraction to kids or at least. it does benifit us by giving us easy acess to certian things but overall it is a distraction.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:14 pm |
  406. peyton

    I think that it can be both distraction and information. But no matter what it is still needed. Everyone has their own distractions and this is not a bad one. It’s stupid if the president wants to get rid of technology. It can also be very useful!

    May 11, 2010 at 4:14 pm |
  407. Alisa

    i think yes electronics ARE a distraction. well for one, I cannot go on the computer as long as before wich was 5hours to all day and second I was just playing my gamecube yesterday all evening...

    May 11, 2010 at 4:14 pm |
  408. Nathan

    I think that ipods and things like that can be distracting at times. You can still go on the internet and look up things like that, but it can be distracting to some students even if they’re not the ones using them.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:14 pm |
  409. jesse

    I think it gives information becuase on the ipod or ipad you can go on the internet and install aps that are echcational for you but sometimes it can be a Distraction becuase when your lisening to music while driving your just focus on the song then the road.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:14 pm |
  410. Jake

    I think that President Obama has a very important point. Objects like ipods or ipads can be useful yes and do help some people but they can also be very distracting and useless like the million other things in the media. Video games are fun and very entertaining but we should probably be out doing something then sitting inside all day drowning our selves away with video games, or some new thing that begins with an I.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:14 pm |
  411. Hailey

    I think that all the technology we use is helping us be aware of what's happening in our world. Technology is just going to keep getting more advanced as years go on, so why not know how to work the technology we have today? If we stopped using all the technology we have right now, we wouldn't be prepared for what is coming in the future.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:15 pm |
  412. Jeremy

    I think that if you have a good education you should be able to play games if you want to. I you don’t have that much of a good education then you should get the grades up and then you can. If you like the games, and the i-pods or maybe some people doney like it at all.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:15 pm |
  413. Siringahh

    Technology can and may be a distraction for some. Many people need technology for jobs, emergencies and everyday things like communication. Our world has had technology so long, and it’s creative and can usually be extremely helpful.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:15 pm |
  414. Nick

    Yes I would rather play my ps3 listen to my ipod or watch tv than do homework. So yes it is a distraction to me.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:16 pm |
  415. Brittney

    I believe technology is a way of the future. And many pieces of technology help us, and are very useful. Although, technology can be distracting because some kids want to come home and play on their i-pad or watch TV, when they haven’t finished their homework. I think it’s the person using the technology, but using it in moderation technology is helping us greatly.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:16 pm |
  416. Brad

    I believe that technology has helped many Americans. I do agree with Obama about the video game portion of it. They are not very educational unless you specifically buy the educational games… But I mean who does that? Things such as the ipod and ipad can be used and are used for things more important and useful. So those devices are more helpful and can help you learn things.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:16 pm |
  417. Lopez

    There are some things like games and computers do to help eductae us. The History Channel makes games, and those game educate us with interactivity. Computers have the Internet, Wich allow us to view information from around the world. While some games are distracting to eductaion, they are made that way. Video games are our generations' form of entertainment.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:16 pm |
  418. Brittney

    I believe technology is a way of the future. And many pieces of technology help us, and are very useful. Although, technology can be distracting because some kids want to come home and play on their i-pad or watch TV, when they haven’t finished their homework. I think it’s the person using the technology, but using it in moderation technology is helping us greatly

    May 11, 2010 at 4:16 pm |
  419. Mr. Reed

    I sometimes agree of what the president said about the game and some of the electronics in the world but if you think about it our nation would totally fail without most of the electronics we have now. Plus if kids didn’t have their games than most of them would be depressed. To say personally I think that I wouldn’t be able to survive a week without an iPod, computer, or a gaming console.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:17 pm |
  420. Araceli

    I think you should be able to have a phone but only for family emergencies not to txt. But the most important thing is to listen to what president Obama said in his speech. You will graduate from high school but when you go to college you wont know a lot of stuff if your in your classes texting with friends.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:17 pm |
  421. yvette

    I think some kinds of technology is a distraction and some of it is informational. If you are e-mailing a freind or playing video games when you should be doing homework, then it is a distaction. If you have nothing to do and are done with your homework and you want to play a game, listen to music, or call/e-mail a friend, I don't see anything wrong with that, just as long you are not doing it 24-7.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:17 pm |
  422. jasmine

    Well in my opinion I think it is a distraction because right after you play games your mind does not function as well as it did before. Then it can also cause your brain to malfunction and not remember anything from a test if you had to study but its okay for some people because they can multitask. And it also depends on the games on which you are playing if it’s a brain game and can help you study and if its something like shooting games then it will be a distraction.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:17 pm |
  423. Mary

    What's scary about Obama's speech is that the government would even care about what we read and hear. It sounds like he wants to control what information we get. Obama makes it sound like he's concerned, almost like a father figure, but if you read between the lines, we could be looking at government controlled information "for our own good." We are headed into communist country.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:18 pm |
  424. Haileigh

    I agree with Obama. Most of our technology is getting a little carried away. Our technology is being a big distraction. Some of technology is the ipod, ipad, iphone, and many more. The technology today is a lot more advanced than they used to be. Our technology that we use everyday are kind of taking control of our everyday skills.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:18 pm |
  425. Christian

    I think it can be both because a ipod can be a learning tool because there can be applications that you can learn from like google earth it can be helpful. Like you can look up cities and more or like research for a report on something.It can be a distraction by with the phone you can just use it to prank call people or just text your friends. Then you would just waste money also because if you use it a lot it is gonna become a distraction and kids are not going to let the phone down.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:18 pm |
  426. Jake

    I believe that these so called “distractions” are not actually distractions at all. I study every night, and still have time to play games. Things like the iphone don’t just have to be used for fun and games. You can also use them for educational purposes.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:19 pm |
  427. Zain

    I don’t think things like Ipods, Ipads, Xbox, and Playstaions are that bad. As long as students can get all their work and studying done they should be able to play a game. Some could become addicted to video games and never do their work witch can be very bad. But most people just play on a bad day or a day with nothing to do.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:19 pm |
  428. Jonathan

    I agree with Obama because say if you come back from school and you have homework but you are on your Play Station 3 and you don' t do your homework. The next day you get in trouble from your teacher because you didn't do it.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:19 pm |
  429. Dustin

    Distrach!! People are becoming a salve of techology teens are on cell phones and mp3s more than what really matters school.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:19 pm |
  430. Jowaun

    technology has both information and distractions. some games are full of information, others are a distraction.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:20 pm |
  431. Bernardo

    I think that technology these days are very helpful like cell phones you can get them with internet and then you can look for things you didn't know but some people use them too much and don't think of other important things like school.They always hope the day finishes fast so they can get straight to their cell phones or ipods.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:23 pm |
  432. Johan

    I think that we should worry about our life in the future not in video games but our technology is very advance in our days and it is very useful for our life.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:25 pm |
  433. Maria

    In my personal experience, I think that electronics are distractions because at one point, it is all that you will think about. You won't care about anything else! You'll start getting bad grades and all you'll want to do is have and play with the electronic. After all, I have to agree with president Barack Obama that electronics are distractions.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:26 pm |
  434. Chelsey

    i think they should focus on school work then their iphones,ipods,Mp3,
    Mp4,PSP, TV,IPAD,LAPTOP,DIGITAL CAMERA, XBOX 360, DS, DSI,
    WII, PLAY STATIONS 1,2,3. they only think about their electronics only
    they don't even think about their schoolwork or their grades either!

    May 11, 2010 at 4:31 pm |
  435. Fred

    some are these technology is really helpful like a cell phone. wonder if u miss your bus or something and its to far to walk and you dont have a phone then you have to come to school all late and stink:(

    May 11, 2010 at 4:33 pm |
  436. Jacky

    I do agree with president Obama because the playstation, Xbox, ipod,and all systems can become a distraction when kids come home from school. Kids don't do their homework when they get home because they want to play their video game.Or instead of studying,they're busy playing the video game. Additionally, kids stay up late playing it when it's a school night.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:35 pm |
  437. Josh

    I think that these technologies could help us, or distract us. It all depends on how we use them. Technology like this is becoming a part of everybody's lives, like it or not. At this point in time, it would be very difficult to live without screens. Technology is impossible to avoid, so I think if we are responsible with these technologies, it will be fine.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:35 pm |
  438. Hannah

    I think that geting info from these technologies like a iphone or an ipad can be useful to some people and be distracting to others. For example a kid might be distracted by the games on an ipod, but an adult can use some apps to get help if there was an emergency.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:35 pm |
  439. Saida

    I say Obama is right because our entertainment such as Ipods can be a distraction for school work because your just wanting to play on your electronics. Also you throw your work to the side and start to play or listen to your Ipod or others.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:36 pm |
  440. Alex

    I think that some of the technologies that we use are useful like ipods because with ipods you can listen to podcasts and they can teach you what's going on in the world. Another useful thing is a smartphone because if you need the internet you can use it if you are away from home.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:37 pm |
  441. Dallas

    I feel that these things can be good for because we can read on them play games that teach us things about things we did not know about. A phone could be good to contact things but for other things they can be bad for our brains

    May 11, 2010 at 4:37 pm |
  442. Noor

    Not all technology is bad, but sometimes it can be a distraction, like the Xbox, Playstation, iPads, and so on. Students can easily get distracted from their work with these around. Even the computer can create a distraction. Okay, sure it's great to look up information on, but at the same time, we can also go online and play games. I mean, who hasn't, at one piont or another, gotten distracted from their work because of technology? It happens all the time. I'm a 4.0 student and I'm not afraid of admiting that I get distracted from all the technology around me. (i.e. Computer, Wii, iPod.)

    May 11, 2010 at 4:38 pm |
  443. marcus

    I think he is stupid for saying video games are distracting. Because what if u need something of the internet. Like if u just stop letting kids play games and stuff they might go crazy

    May 11, 2010 at 4:39 pm |
  444. milcka

    I think that phones and ipods are distracting students from school because they can be texting during class or hearing music. Also students bring them to school because it might get boring when they are walking home. But I still in my opinion it is causing a distraction to students.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:41 pm |
  445. mathew

    I think it depends on the time that people use that electronics. The time has to be the proper time to use items such as iPods, iPads, etc. We as students have to have a little music in our lives.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:42 pm |
  446. justin

    I think these technologies are Distractions to kids. It takes kids minds of what there doing in school and only play video games. Some of the video games have violence witch teaches them bad things. So I think kids sould get out side and listen in school.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:44 pm |
  447. George!

    I think some of these things are not distracting like the I- pod because you can go online and find information. like when I needed facts on the Boston tea party. But the x box 360 is distracting because you are just playing a game that is fun and not learning at all.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:46 pm |
  448. April

    I extremely agree with Obama about these technologies being a distraction. When we use them they sort of brain wash everything we are supposed to be learning at home or school.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:46 pm |
  449. Reid

    Xbox, Playstation, and Wii all improve your hand eye cordination therefore it is information.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:48 pm |
  450. Jarrett

    I understand some internet usage for informational purposes but video games are not necessary.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:49 pm |
  451. wheaties

    i think that we should not consider taking video games as a distraction. video games are full of information they allow us to be in a different world and express our self in many ways. like when i was young i got my first playstation and after i got that i started to express my self more, and i became smarter at many more subjects.

    May 11, 2010 at 4:51 pm |
  452. Mip

    I agree and disagree with President Obama's statement. I agree that some people use ipods, computers, texting and all this new technology for games that takes your mind off school work and eating and other stuff that is important.

    I disagree because; computers give you the latest head lines on the news. And the news extends your learning. It also makes you aware of what is happening in the world and how you can fix it. And if it was not for the computer, my class and I would never be able to watch the best news show ever, CNN student news.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:01 pm |
  453. Jenlu

    I think that some technology is useful, like the iphone, ipod, and ipad. I agree and disagree with President Obama because some technology can be used for useful reasons and other can distract you from doing things that you really need to do. For example if I was playing on the iphone I could be looking at the news or reading a book. But the iphone is a distracting because you can also play games and look at your email.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:03 pm |
  454. Maggie

    I think that it's not a distraction, some people i know have built up their reaction speed from video games and some important US forces use them so the people serving will learn more about wars and what it would be liike.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:06 pm |
  455. Emma

    I think that the president is right about the games being a distraction, but they also can be entertaining and educational, or give us something to talk about.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:08 pm |
  456. Micayla

    I think it is extremely informational. If you are using a cell phone, or computer, you can get useful information that may help you in school! Unless you are just playing video games or on chatting sites.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:08 pm |
  457. Haley

    This stuff could never be a distraction !!!! Plus it's really sad that Obama doesn't know how to work this things.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:11 pm |
  458. Haley

    I belive that in about 55 years or so that we will be so caught up in new tech. that we'll all get lazy AND ROBOTS WILL TAKE OVER THE HUMAN RACE!!!!!!

    May 11, 2010 at 5:14 pm |
  459. Sarah Jane

    I disagree with President Obama. ipads, computers, and EDUCATIONAL games are educational if play game that does not have anyting to do with education that you are just playing for fun would be a distraction. There is a diiference.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:16 pm |
  460. Maggie

    If we are always told that we are the technology generation then why are adults or in this case Obama trying to change that, if we do best with technology then we should be able to show what we can do to improve technology and not back track on what we started.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:17 pm |
  461. hannah

    I think that MOST technological things are useful and not a distraction. Let's say that you are playing on your Xbox. Some games that you might play include skill, like sport games. On ipods you can buy podcasts and listen to it and it will teach you things (such as CNN student news!). Also, phones can be useful sometimes. Texting also has good purposes like if you need to reach someone quickly for an emergency and don't think that they will answer the phone, then you can text them and they will most likely see it. Technology is not always useful, though. If you watch CNN student news then you will know that if you text while driving, you can die. Also, if you get addicted to computer games or Xbox, that wouldn't be good because it isn't good to do it all the time.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:22 pm |
  462. Abby

    I think in general, they are distracting. The phone in distracting when you text gossip. Video games have only taught me which power up gives Mario which super power (Super Mario Bros. Wii) I think we can do better with technology. The CNN student news is helpful, but it would be just as helpful as a newspaper.

    By the way, Mario is a million times better then Sonic.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:27 pm |
  463. Ryan

    i think that even though those things can be used as a distraction they more often can be used for some thing helpfull. we use computers all the time at my school and they are very helpful.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:31 pm |
  464. monique

    i say yes cause most of th kids play games , text or be on i pod instead of doing their home work and they could pay attention on their school work

    May 11, 2010 at 5:32 pm |
  465. Paige

    I am both ways in a way it is helping us learn more about the technology and i find it very interesting. But it can be a distraction from learning in school because if u r so busy playin on the computer or listening to your ipod you "forget" to do you homework and u try to come up with some excuse. But that isnt always the case. Im an inbetweener.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:33 pm |
  466. skyeler

    all the technology is cool but they've gone too far like the fact that the new dsXL has internet and a camera.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:35 pm |
  467. Shane

    I disagree with Obama because making that claim during his speech to me is a wrong thing to do. It's the fact that with the technology we have there is unlimited ways for it to be educational. At the same time playing games that could be considered a "distraction" may not be as educational or information as it may appear to be.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:38 pm |
  468. joseph

    well I would have to say both. I mean I play games on the computer and get distracted but learn tons of stuff too.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:43 pm |
  469. Riley

    I don't think that the president is right about this. The ipad and ipods arent distractions,they're very useful. If you needed something and you didnt have your computer you could just use your ipod/ipad.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:44 pm |
  470. Jennie

    I think technologies are a distraction most fo the time. I love to use it, but I will admit putting off homework or chores when I do. It is a good and bad thing. I think if parents limited themselves and their children of how much time they use technology it would be a better world. And it also is another cause of obesity in children because kids would rather play video games then go outside and play a game of soccer with their friends, instead they are more likely to invite their friends over to play it on their Wii.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:45 pm |
  471. Angelagh

    Sometimes the technology gives information and it can be distracting, but it depends on the game your playing if its a learning game like Brain Games that will be okay but if you are playing video games it can be distracting.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:45 pm |
  472. Ann

    It depends. iPods and iPads may have apps(like CNN Student News) that help you learn, but also apps that enterain more than educate.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:45 pm |
  473. Brandon H.

    I think you should at least have a phone or ipod to listen to music and to get in touch with family and freinds

    May 11, 2010 at 5:46 pm |
  474. (gina)

    i think its both because they provide information and they distract you. things like computers provide information and things like ipods ar a distraction.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:47 pm |
  475. ashleigh

    Thoug i respect president obama, i think this speech was more for him appearing to care about the people of the future. Playing video games for thirty minutes will NOT damage us to that degree.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:47 pm |
  476. Joseph

    I would say info. You may play games and get distracted but you may learn about new places and things you never even knew existed at all. Like I never knew about student news until i saw it on facebook.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:47 pm |
  477. Madeline;)

    Information because lots of good things come out of it like doctors play video games for hand eye cordination. and kids get lots of good info out of it like who tried to steal chicago answer al capone most kids don't know that i know I didn't till my friend told me.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:47 pm |
  478. Anthony

    Well some of these technolgies are destraction like the Ds.But technolgies like the computer are for imfromation.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:48 pm |
  479. Ashley

    I think that phone are a distractions but even though i have a cellphone they are distraction any way because if you for got to turn it off and your back pack is in class they will mess up the whole class up;)

    May 11, 2010 at 5:49 pm |
  480. Joseph

    Personally I think it is a distraction. You really dont need a computer or iphone you can just go to a library and get new books about your subject.

    May 11, 2010 at 5:49 pm |
  481. chase

    i agree with oboma that they are a distrakshon

    May 11, 2010 at 5:50 pm |
  482. jack

    I think theses xboxes and wiis are helpful for strategies and life jobs for computers

    May 11, 2010 at 5:50 pm |
  483. Samantha

    I think it can be distracting and you can also learn something from technology, but some technology can be useful like cell phones, because if you brake down in a car and your in the middle no where, what are you going to do with out a cell phone?

    May 11, 2010 at 5:51 pm |
  484. Kimberly

    Technologies are useful in ways and distracting in ways too. If you have an iPod and only listen to music, that’s distracting but if you have pod casts and download things that teach you like cnn student news, that’s useful. And a computer is useful, I do most of my homework and research on the computer, but it can get distracting if you get obsessed with a game. So you can't really disagree or agree with the president because it goes both ways.

    May 11, 2010 at 6:03 pm |
  485. Kruti

    No this is not a distraction. Many parents limit their kids time playing a video game. My mom does.

    May 11, 2010 at 6:11 pm |
  486. Jenny

    These things are bought for the meaning of entertainment (iPod, iPad, xBox) which could be a distraction from learning, because you know you have them and you'd rather use them to goof off, then learn something. So, that makes it a distraction.

    May 11, 2010 at 6:12 pm |
  487. Kylie

    Development of technology did good deeds for human, however it caused many problems, too. For example, texting help us to contact each other easily but it can cause car accidents or other problems if we're careless.

    May 11, 2010 at 6:17 pm |
  488. Jorge

    This is a distraction period ilike totles

    May 11, 2010 at 6:37 pm |
  489. Nancy

    People get too used to technological gadgets. What will happen if computers cease, satellites get blown out of orbit, and electricity is cut? Where would your technological gadgets do for you???

    May 11, 2010 at 6:44 pm |
  490. Jackilyn

    I think technology can help us by keeping us in the know of what is going on in the world. But if we do take for granted what we have availble, it will overpower our society.

    May 11, 2010 at 6:47 pm |
  491. Bob

    I am a almost straight A student. I have learned 25% of all my history from games. Campaigns from Age of Empires for example, I learned medivel history. There are some Technology that is wasteful (80% of technology now) but theses are some of what he listed and alot not. Compared to 25 years ago these were destraction like now

    May 11, 2010 at 6:52 pm |
  492. sarah

    that is a hard question but i think you ca learn from certain video and electronics but if you go home and plop on the groundin front of the t.v it can be bad for your health a little bitof t.v. is good. not to mention if you don't do your homework you you will get in troublel!!!

    May 11, 2010 at 6:53 pm |
  493. Ginny

    I think they are very distracting when you could be outside excercising or playing with your brothers and sisters.

    May 11, 2010 at 6:53 pm |
  494. Kasi

    I think that some technology's help you. This is said because some video games are helpful in learning, like math games, ect. But a popular case is that many kids choose to watch TV of play video games instead of doing homework.

    May 11, 2010 at 6:55 pm |
  495. sarah

    I think you can learn information from the t.v and other electronics. You can play your video game a little while but to much can be bad for you and your grade if that is what you do when you are back from school.

    May 11, 2010 at 6:57 pm |
  496. Mario

    it is distracting because you last longer on the technologies you have instead of your studies.

    May 11, 2010 at 7:03 pm |
  497. mckenna

    I think that vidio games are a distraction and also information because kids rush through their homework and do a sloppy job just to play vidio games but there are some vidio games that are ment to work your brain.

    May 11, 2010 at 7:11 pm |
  498. Melissa

    i think that having the ipods, ipads etc. are just a waste of your time, i mean do we really need them?

    May 11, 2010 at 7:12 pm |
  499. Heather

    I believe that they are not distracting if you only use them after you study, do your chores, and homework. Also, they can benefit you if you go do physical activity outside while listening to lets say your Ipod or mp3 player.

    May 11, 2010 at 7:16 pm |
  500. Melanie

    Regarding the informative distractions, I feel that sometimes ignorance is bliss, but it is also important to know what is going on in our world...also, it's nice to listen to my iPod while I am doing my homework so i don't completely nod off. 🙂

    May 11, 2010 at 7:18 pm |
  501. Anthony

    I think that electronics help keep kids informed such as texting or Facebook, its just a quicker version of a letter.

    May 11, 2010 at 7:24 pm |
  502. Rachel

    I think that it is not a distraction i mean i think that people should not be on their pieces of techology as much as people usually are, but it is still super useful to have all of the techology available if needed! I use my laptop all the time...even though i use it for school all of the time, I mean i do like all of my research on it!

    May 11, 2010 at 7:29 pm |
  503. Olivia

    I think, No and Yes. Tecnology can be distracting depending on how your using it. What Mr. Obama dosen't get is what would we do without tecnology? Do things by hand?? It can also be helpful. I know they have games out there to improve you on your skills like math; Typing; Reading.. Etc. My view of it is that some people take advantage of tecnology and use it for good use. Other's abuse it.

    May 11, 2010 at 7:29 pm |
  504. Elizabeth

    I think that some technology's help you. This is said because some video games are helpful in learning, like math games, ect. and think you can learn information from the t.v and other electronics.

    May 11, 2010 at 7:32 pm |
  505. sofia

    I think it is technology helps us learn, but it is a bit diatracting. And I even admit that I sometimes play instead of working, then when I loose I realize I have to do my homework so I end up going to sleep late

    May 11, 2010 at 7:35 pm |
  506. Mrs.Gurrie

    i think its a empowerment to man kind

    May 11, 2010 at 7:42 pm |
  507. Jessica

    I believe that it is not a detraction to play video games because sometimes you can learn from the games. It's not a detraction! 🙂

    May 11, 2010 at 7:42 pm |
  508. Thomas

    I think they are a distraction so i would read and play outside get more exircise to eat more healthy foods if you would be playin games they would make you lazy do your homework less time on the phone do more stuff after school thats good for

    May 11, 2010 at 7:51 pm |
  509. devlin

    i think its niether because you chose what you do so its your choice to make it an iformation or distaction.

    May 11, 2010 at 7:51 pm |
  510. Caitie

    I think that the search tools on the computer are really helpful and informational, however the cell phones in class and texting every day is a major distraction!

    May 11, 2010 at 7:53 pm |
  511. Caitie

    I think the obsessive texting is taking it to far, however the search tools on a computer or phone is really informational!!

    May 11, 2010 at 7:55 pm |
  512. Lenore

    i think they are distractions because kids wont do their homework to play the video games. they'll fail. DISTRACTIONS

    May 11, 2010 at 8:08 pm |
  513. Carmen

    I think that it would depend on the type of video game or things that are being downloaded. Not all things are bad; there are some educational video games.

    May 11, 2010 at 8:15 pm |
  514. Eric

    I beleive that portable technology such as Ipads, and I touches can be useful tools to give us information. However games such as Playstation, and Xbox can be a distraction if they are used without limits or supervision.

    May 11, 2010 at 8:20 pm |
  515. Roman

    students can learn about technoligy like how to use a computer,and have fun with it people listen to music while working,driving. we like a good free time.

    May 11, 2010 at 8:29 pm |
  516. hana

    i think i pod and electronics give you information but you should always make a time for an activite

    May 11, 2010 at 8:57 pm |
  517. bob

    i think that it can be both but sometimes you need them because they are a part of life and sometimes they distract you when studying or doing your homework.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:04 pm |
  518. john

    i think that kid need to play video games for fun and you need computer for people to use and do your work on it and do research for people who need to find somthing.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:05 pm |
  519. Mandy

    Distraction is a major impact on education, but if we made school subjects more interesting like online activites, these things would no longer be a problem.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:18 pm |
  520. Keenan

    I think that they are sometimes a distraction. But when you want to go on the internet, ipod, etc you should be able to do those things.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:19 pm |
  521. Christian

    I think That it Is not information because you can learn hand i cordnation and information from your refernces.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:20 pm |
  522. Keenan

    I think that they are sometimes a distraction. But when you want to go on the internet, ipod, etc you should be able to do those things. Unless you are at school.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:20 pm |
  523. Tyra

    So what if they are distracting we are kids and we need a break every once in a while. Dont get me wrong I love education but dont take away the things that make us relax.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:23 pm |
  524. Nicholas

    I disagree with president Obama and agree. I disagree because on the ipod and ipad you can get news from the internet and look up science questions on you tube. I agree with president Obama Because Xboxes and stuff like that can hurt your eyes because all your doing is looking at a T.V.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:23 pm |
  525. Cody

    I am not with Obama i think you can learn a lot of stuff on your games, look at all the apps you can download on your IPod, IPad, and IPhone that you learn on, from had eye cordination to math and reading.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:24 pm |
  526. Avery

    The truth is that many kids focus way to hard on electronics than schoolwork. Education is important and I agree with President Obama. On the other hand, some devices help. Computers, caculators and semi-curriculumn tools support learning abilities.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:25 pm |
  527. Darius

    I some what agree and disagree. Some video games are educational I just haven't seen any though. i know that most games are not educational like Halo and Modern Warfare. But stuff like Ipods and Ipads are good because it is a way to listen to music on the go.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:28 pm |
  528. Michael

    I pods, Ipads, those things are distracting but can have lots of info. You can download things on the i pod that has info for you. You can learn things with these things you download. But it can get distracting sometimes if you plays games that dont really have alot of stuff to learn from.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:33 pm |
  529. Mira

    I think that video games are a distraction and can also be in a form of learning. Today many kids are so entertained with video games and focus on them a lot. However, with todays new technologies they can use the ideas to later create their own video games.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:43 pm |
  530. Joey

    I think that video games are a distraction unless you know your limits on how much to play a day. If you start slacking off in school, you need to realize you are playing too much video games and need to focus on school work.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:44 pm |
  531. McKenna

    I think that video games are bad for your brain and will effect your grades in school but only if you play for a long time. I think that ipods can help you learn because you can download news pod casts and learn something new every day.

    May 11, 2010 at 9:46 pm |
  532. Molly

    I think hes wrong to say that these devices are a distraction. Hes trying to stifle the information the Americans read in daily life. With Obama as president; our country is nearing socialism.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:16 pm |
  533. Bella

    It depends on the kid. Sure, I suppose those who don't do well in school anyways would probably get worse but hey! I'm doing fine! I text a lot with friends and my parents to confirm times and everything. Texting keeps me connected. Obama has a reason to be worked up but I think thats an adult's issue with their kids.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:20 pm |
  534. James

    It is hard to live without technolgy, and sometimes electronics can help us with studying, but it's true that many students are distracted by video games. As a result, students must control themselves so they can have enough time to study. President Theodore Roosevelt said "When you play, play hard. However, when you work, only pay attention at your work." Just like this quote said, students can use electronics, but when they study, they must not be distracterd with electronics.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:25 pm |
  535. Samantha

    Any form of technology, I think, can be a distraction. It depends on how the individual intends to use it. Yes you can gain a great amount of information from it. However, when technology is abused, that's when it becomes a distraction.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:30 pm |
  536. Sahara

    I, myself, don't have anything but a DSm, a playstation, and a wii. It all depends on what you do with it, what you download on it, and if you use it at the right times. There's a teacher in our school that lets us use our music devices during class, if we don't have it to loud.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:42 pm |
  537. kikie

    Who does'nt like to unwind after a hard day of work/school? Things like everyday neccessaties help us get the chance to lay back for a while without worry.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:44 pm |
  538. Christian

    I think President Obama has made the right desicion about all the distracting technology. But instead of using them all the time we should only be able to use them as a privelage.

    May 11, 2010 at 10:49 pm |
  539. Ashtyn

    I kinda agree with the president but at the same time dont. ipods and other electronic can be distrating but on most electrionics have couculators and other stuff that can help you in some classes!!!:]

    May 11, 2010 at 11:19 pm |
  540. Sid

    I think that the president does have a point. I get dirstacted by video games all the time and I get away from doing my homework. It makes sense.

    May 11, 2010 at 11:40 pm |
  541. Ethan

    Honestly, video games have their bad sides and good sides. They can both teach us valuable assets but then cause several mental or physical problems if played too long. In my soul opinion, video games are very important to us; they aren't a waste of time.

    May 12, 2010 at 12:00 am |
  542. armando

    Some of this stuff is distracting but it's the way technology makers make their money. There is educational games but kids hardly will play them and set aside all school work and forget about anything.

    May 12, 2010 at 12:16 am |
  543. The Librarian

    What do you call it when the government limits the information available to the public and then TELLS us what 'the truth' is??
    The internet is just like a library only it grows at the speed of light. It is propagated by devices like iPads, iPhones, Blackberrys (and just about every other modern phone).
    I wouldn't want somebody limiting what books are published and filtering information from my peers in this world. Nor would I want some form of 'WatchDog' filtering the internet. Freedom of speech should allow all thoughts & opinions to travel freely and unfiltered and should be accessible to all who choose to find it.
    Let ME decide when to quit reading (books OR the internet), let ME decide when I have enough information, let ME decide what I believe 'the truth' to be.
    There are greater evils in this world than the information shared freely on the internet...

    May 12, 2010 at 12:37 am |
  544. Laura

    I think that while technology can be distracting, it's also necessary for kids to blow off a little steam. Kids need to be kids, after all. And there are plenty of benefits to the games that the president considers "distracting" – logic, problem-solving, hand-eye coordination, trivia.

    May 12, 2010 at 2:59 am |
  545. Rebeka

    I think that the T.V. and other electronics can damage your learning ability but can also be educational. I dont have a cell phone or a ipod or any of that stuff and i can manage without tham and when i do use one, it is a distraction from what i am doing. so in the long run, i think that electronics are a distraction and in some way educational.

    May 12, 2010 at 6:17 am |
  546. jimmy

    Technoligy helps us by teching us hand I coordination it is sometimes distrating but not always.

    May 12, 2010 at 6:48 am |
  547. Cyra

    Well going to colledge would help you better get a good job so you have to work hard. So, i can see why belives that some technology is just a distraction. But thesse things need to be created a job someone went to school to do. This technology is what keeps stores oped all over the country.(which are closing regularly now).

    May 12, 2010 at 7:20 am |
  548. Emmanuel

    It can be distracting, but only if you use too much of them...not remembering there is a lot of things to do in the outdoors that are also entertaining

    May 12, 2010 at 7:57 am |
  549. ALEXUS♥

    I think that in some ways obama is right. Video games are fun, but kids tend to play them more than they study. It puts pressure on students and most video games are getting more and more violent. If gaming companies cut back on the violence kids would be better off.AND THE GRADES WILL BE BETTER.WE WOULD PROBABLY ALL HAVE ALL A AND B STUDENTS:)

    May 12, 2010 at 8:06 am |
  550. Samuel

    I somewhat agree with President Obama.
    Because video games are good for rainy days and suff like that.
    But i-Pods are very helpful to some people, because a lot of people (like me) work much better with music. And it can be a distraction at times, but it is also very helpful.

    May 12, 2010 at 8:13 am |
  551. Jeff

    In school we use technology all the time. Yes it can be a distraction when not used appropriately, but I love that teachers use the technology in the classroom because it helps me to focus and make connections in new and different ways.

    May 12, 2010 at 8:37 am |
  552. cassandra

    I think that although electronics can be a distraction, such as kids using cell phones in school, overall I think that they are really very helpful, especially at home when kids can use them to relax.

    May 12, 2010 at 8:41 am |
  553. carl

    I think that electronics are a distraction if we want information we can read.

    May 12, 2010 at 9:45 am |
  554. Bryan

    I feel that the president is right because we can spend our time on playing games, or texting in the 21st century machines. In 22nd century, we might have learning systems on the new machenical things instead of going to school.

    May 12, 2010 at 10:15 am |
  555. gabby

    some times i think it is a distraction but not alot

    May 12, 2010 at 10:30 am |
  556. gabby

    i dont think ipods are a distraction at all some people concentrate on thier homework with ipods and other things. the only thing i think is a distraction is video games because if some one whats to do thier homework they would be looking at the person playing the video game and not concetrate on thier work.

    May 12, 2010 at 10:36 am |
  557. ben

    I think that video games are a distraction but that is just my opinion you do not have to agree with me.

    May 12, 2010 at 10:39 am |
  558. Olivia

    I think that the exposure to media tools like Ipods, Ipads, and cell phones, is beginnning to premature our generation. I definately know kids who know more about mature topics than I did in elementary school. But these mature topics are not always appropriate nor can young children be expected to understand them. I also know that students even a year younger are generally more addicted to technology than I could ever handle. It is scary how fast our generation gap is shifting. I think kids need to drop their cell phone, find a friend, and play outside. Now more than ever people need interpersonal communication. And that means face to face, not pocket to pocket.

    May 12, 2010 at 10:49 am |
  559. Olivia

    Technology will keep coming out the wa-zooh, but friendships, and relationships will not always be in your pocket bleeping "New Friend". Our human existance depends on social interaction. We need to understand the balance between survival and personal convinience.

    May 12, 2010 at 10:51 am |
  560. joe

    I think that the president is beng stupid becase electronics can teatch you alot and thats also saying that websites like wikipidia are not good to go on when they can teach you alot

    May 12, 2010 at 11:13 am |
  561. Heanara

    I agree with the president's claim that information is not beneficial but distractive. Although we get many immense deta from high technology machine such as ipod, iphone, laptop, we are using those things compulsily and unconciously. It seems to human's renovation, while it is destructive devices.

    May 12, 2010 at 11:38 am |
  562. julian

    in ways the pesidents is wrong you can get information from the computer or you could learn songs from an ipod but it can be a distacation from playing outside so in some ways the president is right and wrong

    May 12, 2010 at 11:57 am |
  563. Taylor

    I think people just need these things to stimulate themselves.Yes you can get really good information off computers and iPads but they can also be a BIG distraction!

    May 12, 2010 at 12:06 pm |
  564. Bethany

    I think that the computer is both a distraction but it also has really good facts about it if you use the computer and your ipod's and all your electronics in a good way instead of for all that other information or sites that don't really matter. I mean Facebook and Twitter and all of those websites are cool but you don't need them for information they are just perks for your life.

    May 12, 2010 at 12:06 pm |
  565. Quincy

    I think that the President Barack Obama is partially correct. Kids do need to get away form the electronics at times, and they can be a distraction. But I also believe that they can help you learn!

    May 12, 2010 at 12:08 pm |
  566. Anonymous

    I agree with the president because most kids use all these electronics for fun or because they think they have to, and they dont spend much time with family or outside

    May 12, 2010 at 12:12 pm |
  567. Sky, Emily, Lulu,Abbey,Morgan

    We think that technology is useful if you use it responsibly.

    May 12, 2010 at 12:13 pm |
  568. Quincy

    I think that President Barack Obama is partially correct. Kids do need to get away from the electronics at times, and they can be a distraction. But i also believe that they can help you learn! For example, the computer retrieves information in a matter of seconds.

    May 12, 2010 at 12:13 pm |
  569. Andrew

    I think that technology provides an almost limitless source of information from all corners of the world. However, technology can also distract kids from school, excercise, and friends. Video games and computers are useful in moderation.

    May 12, 2010 at 12:17 pm |
  570. jonathan

    I think Presidant Barack Obama is kind of right because computers and phones do give you information about things. they are also a distraction because it sometimes keeps you from getting outside and doing something athletic.

    May 12, 2010 at 12:22 pm |
  571. john

    video games are a distaction, but kids who take advantage of them. If they only play a little instead of all day its ok.

    May 12, 2010 at 12:27 pm |
  572. Kelly

    I think that electronics aren't a distraction...But I have to admit that I personaly need to cool down on the electronics.It drives my mom crazy .

    May 12, 2010 at 12:35 pm |
  573. anel

    I do think electronics are a distracion because like in many cases there is car crashes and many other accidents. But here is alot of positive things about them.

    May 12, 2010 at 12:40 pm |
  574. chris

    you should be able to choose that your environment that is safe to listen to your ipods.

    May 12, 2010 at 12:44 pm |
  575. Sora

    I disagee with the pedint game's are fun and stuff but you got to lae off the video game's

    May 12, 2010 at 12:46 pm |
  576. fernando

    i think that electonics arent distracting because alot of people use them and it also helps alot of people with many things.

    May 12, 2010 at 12:48 pm |
  577. JD

    I think he is wrong because technology like music players can calm people down .

    May 12, 2010 at 12:48 pm |
  578. Allyshia

    i dont think that electronics are a distraction because some games teach you not to do some things.

    May 12, 2010 at 12:52 pm |
  579. cody

    I dont think electronics are that much of a distraction because most people need them for emergencies. If its in other cases like texting while driving then I think it would be a distraction.............

    May 12, 2010 at 12:55 pm |
  580. Omar

    I would disagree with President Barack Obama because technology has advanced us in ways we couldn't have imagined before.

    May 12, 2010 at 1:09 pm |
  581. Anayeli

    I agree with the President because it's an artificial distraction of what we need to do. An example would be excercising or doing real work rather than playing mindless games.

    May 12, 2010 at 1:11 pm |
  582. kyle

    You have too look at both ways because look at some of the website we have funbrain for prime example is a informant website it teaches you thing. now with the video games COD- Call Of Duty yes that is a distration cuz you are not learning anything.

    :]

    May 12, 2010 at 1:11 pm |
  583. Piper

    I think that ipod's and ipad's aren't always a distraction because the can provide a way to learn if used for a way to learn which kids these days rarely do. Other than that i think ipad's and ipod's are a big distraction to kids learning.

    May 12, 2010 at 1:22 pm |
  584. Caitlin

    I think that it is not a disraction. You can a learn a lot form alll this technology.

    May 12, 2010 at 1:27 pm |
  585. Shannon

    I disagree. Electronics are fun so people will want to learn or use that electronic. Also, electronics are very useful. You cna surf the web or type a report on them. There are many ways to use them to help for school. Electronics are not a distractions. They cna also help you express yourself. Liek on a cell phone your wallpaper is what you want not what someone else wants. I would hate to think that electronics are a distractions.

    May 12, 2010 at 1:28 pm |
  586. Michael

    I think that Barack Obama was wrong. We could learn a lot in video games. they are not distractions.

    May 12, 2010 at 1:32 pm |
  587. Rachel

    It depends on how you look at it. Technology can be helpful or a disctraction. But truthfully, it can only be a distraction if you have nio will power. It's your choice weather or not you want to do something, and if you stay and fool around on the xbox or computer, it can be a distraction.

    May 12, 2010 at 1:33 pm |
  588. Schwoncoviaa

    I can agree with President Obama but i can aslo disagree. Obama wants the best for us and thinks it is a waste of time to be on the computer, texting, ect. We all dont want to admitt it but all this stuff really is useless. i have to say though some technology we can get info. from like the computer and even some games. We all do get addiccted to all of our technology. most of the time we should be doing more important things but we are on the computer doing useless things. The president makes very strong points

    May 12, 2010 at 1:36 pm |
  589. Nicole

    The internet is helping our econmy because it is preventing us from cutting down trees. If we put all of our work on the computer we wont have to cut down trees. Barrack obama is wrong. He needs to think.

    May 12, 2010 at 1:40 pm |
  590. ERIN

    I agree and disagree with Obama. I diagree because at some point in your life time you are definetly going to have to use these objects for somthing.I use them sometimes but not usually.I try to limit my use of using them. I also agree with Obama because my brother definetly uses these devices way to much. He can go up to hours just playing one game. Its almost like he is addicted to these games. i understand him playing them for maybe for 30 minutes or less but he uses them for hours. It also distacts him from doing his homework. When he plays these video games all day he has to do his homework at night. When he does it at night he is really tired and rushes through it . All in all i agree and diagree at the same time. But i mostly agree with Obama for the reasons i have listed above.

    May 12, 2010 at 1:41 pm |
  591. Edward

    Obama should stick to fixing the economy, which he will never do, and stop making up lies about things that he thinks are wrong but that realy aren't.

    May 12, 2010 at 1:44 pm |
  592. JaKe

    i think it is a informational becauser video games are fun

    May 12, 2010 at 1:45 pm |
  593. Nate

    Sometimes electronics can be useful. Whenever I have a bad day or get bad news, I can always go to my games

    May 12, 2010 at 1:46 pm |
  594. Emma

    I think some electronics are distracting, but some are not. We can learn, or get help from the electronics sometimes. They can be fun if you don't get too absorbed in the elctronic devies.

    May 12, 2010 at 1:46 pm |
  595. Rebecca

    I think some electronics are distracting, but some are not. We can learn, or get help from the electronics sometimes. They can be fun if you do not get too absorbed in the electronic devices.

    May 12, 2010 at 1:46 pm |
  596. sean

    WRONG MR PREZ U ARE WRONG

    May 12, 2010 at 1:47 pm |
  597. behmen

    i think that technology is good for news such as cnn student news.......

    May 12, 2010 at 2:06 pm |
  598. Jordan

    I think technology is good because we can look things up on the internet if we have computer. Plus, if we did not have cell phones we could not call 911 if we got hurt. And there would not be technology in the hospitals so there would be a lot of dead or badly hurt people. I also think that a lot of kids need video games to cool off at the end of the day. Most of them go outside after though.

    May 12, 2010 at 2:07 pm |
  599. andrew

    I think electronics are great and useful and a great distraction. but there should be some restrictions you need to focus on real important things like school or your job.

    May 12, 2010 at 2:08 pm |
  600. Rachel

    Honestly I think playing video games or watching TV for hours is ridiculous, a little at a time, I think, is fine but if its totally nothing but blood and guts, that's awful and not worth the time it took to play or watch it.

    May 12, 2010 at 2:11 pm |
  601. Dwight

    I think that people can get information from the T.V. and other electronics. If you play in moderation, then you'll be O.K., but if you play a lot then you can get obese.
    Technology is a great tool for learning and for games. It is not a distraction, as long as you don't play too much of it.

    May 12, 2010 at 2:12 pm |
  602. Alina

    It`s the student choice

    May 12, 2010 at 2:14 pm |
  603. Kenton

    I believe that if you use them ( ipods, ipads, facebook) without over-using them, and incorperate outdoor activities and a complete social life in your daily agenda, then they can be very helpful as well as keep you informed on what's going on around the world and in your community.

    May 12, 2010 at 2:17 pm |
  604. Natalie

    I think that this technology is a distraction. It pulls people (students) away from their work. People will tell themselves for only five minutes, but it becomes fifteen minutes. Therefore they don't get their work done (ontime).

    May 12, 2010 at 2:33 pm |
  605. Natalie

    Some electronics can be a distraction. Some people use their electronics while doing their work, therefore they don't get their work done ontime and/or they don't do it as well.

    May 12, 2010 at 2:38 pm |
  606. kaylee

    ...after a long day of work/school it is nice to just sit down and have fun on things such as, ipods, ipads, computers... of cousre you need to a break, but all of the electronic devices are NOT a bad thing

    May 12, 2010 at 2:54 pm |
  607. Abby

    Here's the thing:
    Everyone says "It's how you use it that makes it empowering or distracting" Half the comments say that. HE'S NOT TALKING ABOUT THAT! IT'S HOW YOU ARE USING IT, NOT HOW YOU COULD BE USING IT! The MAIN way we are using it is as a distraction. I
    It isn't that it brings joy, it's still distracting you. Besides, cake brings joy, it's not healthy... Does it help? No. I dare every one to go one day with no T.V. Xbox, cell phone except to call parents to tell plans of where you are going. No Computer games, nothing. Can you do it? I can. I"ll bet most of the people can't. By the way, it's a DARE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    May 12, 2010 at 3:10 pm |
  608. Gabi

    I think that I-pods, I-touches, and I-pads can be both distracting and informing.

    It is distracting because if you are doing homework or something important like that and you go to get information it can be tempting to play a game or listen to music and if you do play games or apps and listen to music you will be completely focused on the game/app and will forget about the important things. Another thing is that if you play on I-pods,I- touches, I-pads, xboxes, or video games can make you forget things that you learn in school by playing on that all day instead of learning new things or studying and doing homework.

    I-pads,and I-touches are informing because if in school you need to do a blog for homework like in my class we do and your computer freezes what will you do? Now since we have new technology we can use I-pads or I-touches to do our homework.

    May 12, 2010 at 3:35 pm |
  609. EMILY

    I think that electronics can be useful and distracting because on the ipod you can download podcasts and useful apps but you can also get mindless apps that distract you. Texting can be good and bad, the good thing about texting is if you need to get a message to someone quickly, texting would be helpful but the bad thing about texting is that it distracts people from driveing.

    May 12, 2010 at 3:40 pm |
  610. Andrew

    I think Oboma is saying that we all need to relax about technology and help our community.

    May 12, 2010 at 3:41 pm |
  611. Jordyn

    I think that kids should go outside and play more than just sitting and playing the computer.

    May 12, 2010 at 4:05 pm |
  612. Jarom

    We can step away sometimes but you shouldn't take them away sometimes it can stop people from vegging out.

    May 12, 2010 at 4:12 pm |
  613. Eric

    I beleive that portable technology such as Ipads, and I touches can be useful tools to give us information and you can download podcasts on your Ipod like cnnstudent news. However games such as Playstation, and Xbox can be a distraction if they are used without limits or supervision and some games could be inappropriate .

    May 12, 2010 at 4:14 pm |
  614. ELLIS

    I think that it is a good thing because helps jobs creativity and more teck means less unimploed

    May 12, 2010 at 4:20 pm |
  615. Jeffery

    xbox 360 live is good for kids to hang out together online with the microphone you get to talk with your freind

    May 12, 2010 at 4:38 pm |
  616. private

    no, its dumb. technology helps us in school and socially. plus obama doesnt have the right to tell us we cant use technology... sure hes the president, but we live in the UNITED STATES aka freedom-ville. we can do whatever it is we want. plus we need it for homework and adults need it for work. AND the cnn student news of course!!!

    May 12, 2010 at 4:44 pm |
  617. Robbie

    I would disagree with the President because once as you get everything you need to do done, you would be bored for the rest of the day. Gaming companies just need to stop putting so much violence. I've also learned some good stuff from games too.

    May 12, 2010 at 4:46 pm |
  618. Jimmz

    I beleive that electronics cold be empowering to a point, but kids often get obsessed and thats when they become a distraction.

    May 12, 2010 at 4:52 pm |
  619. lucy

    i think that president obamas kids have to play on some type of video game! because it does give you information when you need it. and he uses one too.(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:

    May 12, 2010 at 4:53 pm |
  620. Joe

    Hey Carl, I think that Pres. Obama is right. Technology has been a big thing on kids lately, not going outside, not doing hw, etc.
    Go Flyers!

    May 12, 2010 at 5:13 pm |
  621. Carmen

    It all depends on what the distraction is. If the distraction is video games, then maybe kids need to cut back on the time they spend on them and use it for studying. It is not like that vudoe games are going to help them in the future.

    May 12, 2010 at 5:15 pm |
  622. Nashlene

    Well honestly, electronic devices are a big distraction. Having an ipod at school just makes me want to use it and that's for all classes including civics. We shouldn't let an thing such as an ipod distract us because the government is important and later in the future it will be run by us kids. We can't permit people that have no idea about politics run our government.

    May 12, 2010 at 5:19 pm |
  623. Arnav

    I agree and diisagree.

    I agree because some things like playstaions or a x – box you can just play games, but i – pods are usefull because they have education games, a discovery kids app and audio books. So times when my parrents need to go so where and have to come, but i have homework I use my i – touch.

    May 12, 2010 at 5:26 pm |
  624. Katie

    I think that it would be a rather large distraction. Kids should spend more of their time being active and healthy.

    May 12, 2010 at 5:41 pm |
  625. Gyen

    I personally dont think that electronics are distracting. It depends on how you use them. there people who use video games to communicate with friends and to bond with there familys, but some people chose to play them all day and it does become a distraction. It just all depends on how you use them.

    May 12, 2010 at 5:48 pm |
  626. Savannah

    Much of the technology invented today is used to help keep us in touch with the rest of the world. I do agree that more and more video games and game systems are coming out, which is distracting people from work and school. The companies that manufacture them are only creating them to make money, while universities and labs are creating new things to better the world.

    May 12, 2010 at 5:50 pm |
  627. austin

    I think they are informing because you can a lot from all the different apps like the guy in Hati learned how to fix his leg.

    May 12, 2010 at 5:59 pm |
  628. Abigail

    I think that electronics can be useful for life- some games teach you things you might have never known, and some games even let you control a whole other future life with your own home and everything.

    May 12, 2010 at 6:04 pm |
  629. austin

    I think they are informing because with out my ipod i wouldn't be able to watch CNN student news which is very informing

    May 12, 2010 at 6:06 pm |
  630. Michelle

    I believe technology is slowly taking over. At the same time technology is good to receive news, and any other important informations

    May 12, 2010 at 6:16 pm |
  631. Alison

    Technology is an important part of life. the people who created and invented iPods and TVs and computers and video games weren't trying to hurt the rest of the world, they were trying to help us. They wanted it to be easier for people to find out how to do things, to learn about what amazing things have happened or to just help everyone to do something other than stress about stuff that really isn't important. Besides, would we all know about what the president said if it weren't for cameras to film it and for computers and TVs to show it to us?

    May 12, 2010 at 6:19 pm |
  632. Malik

    I think all the technology that we have available can be both a distraction and a tool for information. I use my tech like my ipod frequently to get news and even research for school but i can sometimes get distracted because of how entertaining it was meant to be.

    May 12, 2010 at 6:42 pm |
  633. Nashlene

    In my opinion electronics are a big distraction. They take students of task rapidly and most of these devises shouldn't be allowed in our learning environment. Yes they are fun and cool but sometimes we need to learn how to just have fun learning in school and just go with the flow naturally without ipods, ipads, Xboxes and playstations. Their fun but most of the time these materials aren't even necessary.

    May 12, 2010 at 6:43 pm |
  634. Nashlene

    Well honestly, electronic devices are a big distraction. Having an ipod at school just makes me want to use it and that's for all classes including civics. We shouldn't let anything such as an ipod distract us because the government is important and later in the future it will be run by us kids. We can't permit people that have no idea about politics run our government.

    May 12, 2010 at 6:45 pm |
  635. Lilly

    I agree with President Obama, we as Americans have gotten a little ahead of ourselves. The technological devices we use are for efficiency and entertainment. Both which are not absolute needs but rather demands for an easier lifestyle.

    May 12, 2010 at 6:53 pm |
  636. Jimenezz

    I think technology is great because without it many of us would not be able to function day to day

    May 12, 2010 at 6:58 pm |
  637. Jon

    i think that technology is good for people as long as you don't let yourself get obsessed with it.

    May 12, 2010 at 7:10 pm |
  638. valicity

    i think video games are a distration because kids tend to be lazy when they are playing with video games ,ipods and others.they are a big distration.

    May 12, 2010 at 7:35 pm |
  639. brittanyy

    i believe that it can be a distraction, because students might not be focused on whatever theyre doing. however i also believe technology such as ipads, ipods, xboxs, ect. can be informational because they can be used for a quicker way to research and get info quick. (:

    May 12, 2010 at 7:44 pm |
  640. kthomas

    i its the students choice!!!!!!!!!!

    May 12, 2010 at 7:45 pm |
  641. Allie

    I think that video games for younger children should have a limit because for a young child they have more things to go through that don't involve a fake game. For older people, i pods/pads and cell phones and tv are what keep us connected to the real world. I know that with some of my friends, their music on their i pods are one of the only thing that gets them through the day.

    May 12, 2010 at 7:52 pm |
  642. Tigre

    Hey Carl, a lot of people at our school have ipods, iphones, ipads, ect. everyone on the bus is always talking about new apps and what not, the point is that people are spending too much time on their electronics other than studying.

    May 12, 2010 at 7:53 pm |
  643. Reece

    You learn stuff from video games. I play a world war II video game and have learned about the weapons.

    May 12, 2010 at 7:57 pm |
  644. Blake

    I agree that all this information and technology can be a bit distracting to most students, but if we learn to just turn the xbox or laptop off every once and while the world could be a better place.... for terrorist.

    May 12, 2010 at 7:59 pm |
  645. Chaz

    I might be coming off topic here but how is Japan beating us in literacy when they are the technology freaks. They have all the new ipods, iphones, ipads, ect. I think that that is just the U.S.'s problem for giving their children more time on electronics than Japan because they have all the great new items but they still use a lot of their time studying.

    May 12, 2010 at 8:07 pm |
  646. Ramon

    What President Obama doesn't wants us to be is informed and not believe in the criticism we hear thru ipod blogs and computers (since almost nobody watches cable news who never criticise Obama). He is talking about information as a distraction (hint)we don't get information from playstions, do we?

    May 12, 2010 at 8:21 pm |
  647. JASMINE

    Yes,i think that video games and thing like that can be distracting,because if someone is trying to tell u something important you are more likely to tune them out.

    May 12, 2010 at 9:19 pm |
  648. jordan

    i think it is information because we always find information we didnt know yet so yeah i say it is information

    May 12, 2010 at 9:20 pm |
  649. Mackenzie

    I do not agree with President Obama becuase when you come home from a tiring day at school, video games or ipads, or Nintendo DSI's can help you relieve stress from previous things that may have happened. But, at the same time i do not agree because, all these new electronics can rot your brain, and then you will not have anything to do besides rit your brain.

    May 12, 2010 at 9:29 pm |
  650. Jordan

    I think that technology is great but let technology "get out of hand"

    May 12, 2010 at 9:39 pm |
  651. Katelyn

    At my school, we use iPod Touches, laptops, and computers to do practically everything. By using these, we have saved a lot of paper and also make what we are doing more fun. These electronics are a helpful to our environment and the regular school day.

    May 12, 2010 at 9:41 pm |
  652. Mohamed

    i go for both information and distraction
    it could be informative if u are using to relax
    it could be distractive if u are really addicted to it

    May 12, 2010 at 9:48 pm |
  653. brianna

    i think that they can be distracting but it depends on the person who is using it and if they are useing it wisely or not and if they are the teachers have the right to take them away

    May 12, 2010 at 9:51 pm |
  654. Mackenzie

    I agree with Mr. Obama. But partly I do not because he MIGHT have went a little too far. When he says" ' information becomes a distraction, ' " not all information does. What i'm trying to conclude is that all these electronics, ipads, ipods, DSI'S, XBox, playstation, gameboys, just to name a few, are a bad, but healthy distraction.

    May 12, 2010 at 9:53 pm |
  655. brianna

    i think it is a distraction if you choose for it to be a distraction or if depending on that person they could choose to do the right thing and follow what you are told to do

    May 12, 2010 at 9:56 pm |
  656. Anonymous

    well i think that president Obama is rong because these things can help us with our studys. like the cell phone my phone has internet and i look up stuf for school and i dont think that is a destraction because i learn from things on the internet so some kids dont have internet on there phone so they can go ont the computer what you want us to learn from a text book my classes are fun when we dont read out of the text book its mor fun to see it on the compute r

    May 12, 2010 at 9:57 pm |
  657. Sarah

    I disagree with President Obama. I think that these electronics may be educational only if used correctly.

    May 12, 2010 at 10:08 pm |
  658. Harley

    I think that it is more of a distraction because you really can't learn ANYTHING from iPods or any video game because they just get you focused on getting to the next level then you won't remember it.

    May 12, 2010 at 10:08 pm |
  659. Juan

    I somewhat agree with the president. He makes sense when he says that technology these days can be distracting because kids dont learn that much and dont go outside. But the use of technology teaches us new things each day to us kids.

    May 12, 2010 at 10:21 pm |
  660. Blake

    Hey, Carl. Many people rely on technology to do "things" for them, like homework. But most of the time it just causes a distraction and people just play games on thier iphone, ipad, ipod, imac, etc. People just need to learn when to turn it off or use it to help them.

    May 12, 2010 at 10:23 pm |
  661. Tristan

    I think that you do get distractions from video games and that you do not do your homework sometimes.

    May 12, 2010 at 10:39 pm |
  662. jacob

    I beleive that electronic items can be a major distraction but i think obamas speach was more toward saying that we need to inprove are education and giving the example of electronics was to tell us that there are manny things that are cousing the united states to do not its best in education.
    This speach I think was towards the public after the results of state and overall test results in math and science in schools

    May 12, 2010 at 10:59 pm |
  663. Anish

    I perasonally think that Obama is compoletly right!!! But that can change !!!!

    May 12, 2010 at 11:19 pm |
  664. Kaitlin

    I think it depends. If you know how to stop yourself from getting overboard and knowing your limmits you don't get too distracted. But if you're a Gamer and you play games(Or use Technology) all the time, and is addicted to it it's a distraction.

    May 13, 2010 at 12:05 am |
  665. Robert

    Well i think that these days there are many things that are controlled by the power of technology. And it is the start of a whole new way to work in a military and not have to be endangered by the fire of gun and can be safe hundreds of miles away. And it is a new way and life and we need to adapt.

    May 13, 2010 at 12:27 am |
  666. giselle

    i love my ipod and imac computer but, sometimes is can be distracting when i am doing my homework but, other than that it is entertaining!!!!!!!

    May 13, 2010 at 7:24 am |
  667. Sarah

    Playing with electronics can be an distraction but it helps people calm down after a hard day at work or school. After school I always play on my ps3 it clams me down when I am realy angry so...!

    May 13, 2010 at 7:25 am |
  668. Darlene

    He's all wrong, he doesn't know what he is talking about. Electronics has so much information to give us, even the games and music that was given to us in a new way. He is being quite hypocritical, mainly because its like saying NASA's electronics that are being used on their work means THAT is a distraction.

    May 13, 2010 at 8:41 am |
  669. Jenni

    I think that technology is a good thing and It can be a distraction at times but it can also help us

    May 13, 2010 at 9:10 am |
  670. Sean

    I think technology is both, it depends how you use it. If you use it to get school work done then it is information. If you just play games during school, then it is a distraction.

    May 13, 2010 at 9:23 am |
  671. Zach

    i think that really they are not a distraction because they help with reaction, and they can teach a lot of lessons, most people dont see that but they do honest and truely :)))))

    May 13, 2010 at 9:47 am |
  672. Kenneth

    I don't think video games are distracting.. It really depends on the gamer not the game.

    May 13, 2010 at 10:02 am |
  673. Allan

    There is a point in the fact that a lot of Americans think that we can multitask on electronics and the fact of it is we cant. The kids of today would rather go home and play Xbox then work on their home work

    May 13, 2010 at 10:08 am |
  674. Abbiey

    I think that kids should have the right to play their video games, but not for like 5 hours a day. Just 30 minutes is long enough. For iPods, I think that it is causing no distractions because you're just listening to your music. You're not wearing out the bone cartilage from texting or playing games, so it isn't helth hazardous.

    May 13, 2010 at 10:26 am |
  675. Audri

    I don't think that ipods or any other source of music are distractions because, it helps me to get all of my homework and school work complete efficiently.

    May 13, 2010 at 10:32 am |
  676. Ben

    I thyink that video games are a distraction they rot the human brain some technology is okay like computers and phones but I think that is it nothing else.

    May 13, 2010 at 10:32 am |
  677. Raheem

    I thank obama is correct and incorrect. because more kids are getting in trouble with ipods and cell phones at school. But xboxes motivate most kids to be educated and do right in school.

    May 13, 2010 at 10:33 am |
  678. Sekeena

    Texting, video games, ipods and other things teenagers may use, actually can be a distraction. It's both, really. It just depends on the individual. If a teenager plays video games everyday in their free time, and is failing in school...it may be a distraction. But, there's also teenagers who can do this and maintain a good average in school. You cant neccessarly say these things are a distraction to students, because it does'nt apply to all.

    May 13, 2010 at 10:37 am |
  679. Britt

    Okay well yes sometimes ipods, and tv and other technolgy can be a distraction but not always, phones and ipods is really a helpfull source it can keep you in touch with family and friends and teach you many different things so many people need to realize that it's not really a distraction if you really just use it when it is really needed.

    May 13, 2010 at 10:38 am |
  680. Shae

    I agree with the president on video games an other electronic devices being distractions. when student's be in the classrooms they hardly pay attention to their teacher's because their either on their phones texting or listening to ipods. i also think student's only do it because some teacher's let him so you cant just put it all on the student's.

    May 13, 2010 at 10:39 am |
  681. Amanda and Zach

    We disagree ipods are a good part of relaxation. They calm us down when we are stressed. Parents can give their children ipods to keep them busy and from getting in trouble.

    May 13, 2010 at 12:13 pm |
  682. Danny

    i like video games but i think they are a distraction for school.

    May 13, 2010 at 1:05 pm |
  683. christian

    I think that oboma is right becase im an outdoors guy and i think everybody else should get out and do something.

    May 13, 2010 at 1:10 pm |
  684. KYLE

    They are good because they keep you on top of recent activity and feed you good information.

    May 13, 2010 at 1:22 pm |
  685. eton

    i really think that tech is very usefull and can if used correctly be benificial to students. Kids can now easily find information that is true and can have acess to pics vids and endless info

    signed eton

    May 13, 2010 at 1:36 pm |
  686. Emma

    Electronics are ok....... too much is bad though. I think electronics would bebetter if they blew up when you used them too late or too much in one day. Most people don't want their iPod Touch to blow up, so they will use it less. BESIDES, who thinks electronics are "kewl" when they are smashed to bits?

    May 13, 2010 at 2:04 pm |
  687. Thomas

    Sometimes a person will vow to only play one level on xBox, and it evolves into about 5 levels. That's distraction.

    Sometimes a musician will hear a song he likes, buy it on his iPad, and listen to it, analyzing the chord progression while driving to work. That's information.

    Now, most of what Obama has done in the past, I've approved of. I do agree that sometimes, video games insulate us from reality. However, I do not think that is a serious enough issue to where we should stop using them. I simply think we should strive on to find positive uses for it, and in reality, I think that's what Obama's plan is implying.

    May 13, 2010 at 2:18 pm |
  688. Marissa♥

    I think that it really matters how you think about the distractions and imformation. Personally i think you should only use things like that on a rainy day. I do agree with the Pres. on some things about this problem. So I guess I would be classified as Nuetral!

    May 13, 2010 at 2:47 pm |
  689. maxx

    I think video games and phones are more of a distraction and schools shouldn't allow them

    May 13, 2010 at 2:49 pm |
  690. Davey

    i think they are essential. And the president uses one too.

    May 13, 2010 at 5:08 pm |
  691. Stephanie

    I think that video games are often a distraction. Kids are completley addicted to the small little screen and do not spend enough time doing (real world) things sucha as playing outside, reading books, or homework.

    May 13, 2010 at 5:15 pm |
  692. Anonymous

    i think technology is both because yes it can teach you and help but its a major distraction 1 major instance texting while driving and the technology is cellphones. all technology mostly does is help us become larger/ obese because most of technology makes us lazier. on the contrary it helps with scientific discoveries , and makes us safer. why not just sit on a couch all day have class via a phone with a camera in front have robots to clean up after you and gain weight every second ............this may be our future

    May 13, 2010 at 5:23 pm |
  693. Andi

    I think thta banning video games is neccisary but at the same time it is not.

    May 13, 2010 at 5:39 pm |
  694. Ryan

    I think that if you want to major in electronics, you should have an electronic device. Plus it is hard to avoid. We grow up with it.

    May 13, 2010 at 5:44 pm |
  695. Austin

    They are good for information depending on what they have, and they can be a distraction depending on how you use it.

    May 13, 2010 at 6:01 pm |
  696. lery

    i think videogames r a distractiom

    May 13, 2010 at 6:02 pm |
  697. Emma

    I think my ipod expands my creativity. When I feel bad I can listen to my songs and I feel free!

    May 13, 2010 at 6:14 pm |
  698. Lexie:)

    The playstations and xboxs and video games are fine. Some children don't have parents home right after school and cant go outside. The video games and stuff keeps them busy and ussally children get sick of playin or board and end up goin outside if parents wouldent bug them as much to go outside they would choose to go out themselves same with practicing an insterment, So Video games, ipods, and ipads are fine they keep children like me busy!

    May 13, 2010 at 6:43 pm |
  699. Maria

    I think that the computer and phones are distraction because you you can do may things on them.Yet it has information because you may look for learning games or definitions. Maybe call a friend for help or ask what the homework is. So, it is both in my opinion.

    May 13, 2010 at 6:45 pm |
  700. Jamie

    They can be distractions but come on, how else would i watch CNN student news?! and with out computer or tv, how would we know about this speech? I think they can help, ive made up soo many songs to the tune of a real song to help remember math equations and such. If you're on an electronic for more than ,like, 16 hours a day, WAYY too much!

    May 13, 2010 at 6:49 pm |
  701. Joe

    If you use technology to much then it becomes a distraction. If you use technology the right amount of time then it will give you information

    May 13, 2010 at 7:08 pm |
  702. Nico

    they are sometimes a distraction but they are helpful and fun

    May 13, 2010 at 7:19 pm |
  703. Sam

    i think ipods, video games, and ipads are only distracting when you are using them at the wrong time and reason.

    May 13, 2010 at 7:57 pm |
  704. Anna-Marie

    I think that these things are NOT a distraction, because no one is on their technology 24/7. We have to sleep and its not allowed in schools and most teens are involved in sports. We're lucky if we get in an hour at most on them. Also they are very usefull to look up information that we want to know that we never would have found out otherwise.

    May 13, 2010 at 8:09 pm |
  705. Marcus

    I believe some games and electronics are distracting and some are pretty useful for instance fallout 3 is a game that hides the fact that your learning to make good decisions in life or you will get the bad story in the game or you don't get to do something.

    May 13, 2010 at 8:10 pm |
  706. Anonymous

    well they could be info u never know unless u try it out u got 1 n its very helpful

    May 13, 2010 at 8:18 pm |
  707. Casey suferin and El-amin

    Ps3 can help because it has internet and internet help you so can xbox360

    May 13, 2010 at 8:45 pm |
  708. joseph

    obam dos have a point if kid get all the games they wont and i pods you would never see them and then they get very lazy so i think kid should be limited to the time like the parents should watch and make them go out side and play more then on there games.

    May 13, 2010 at 8:48 pm |
  709. Ian

    well are generation has always been used to these things, but if we relize whats important in life we should not have these distractions with the unimportant things

    May 13, 2010 at 9:07 pm |
  710. Sheawnknee

    i think, that electronics such as iphone ipods, zunes, and such, are good for the civilazation, because it helps make's this century build up and progress thing to the future, were building up our technology, so one day we'll have flying cars, but it dont think its a distraction, because they can help you learn, theres apps, and facts, and things that you use your mind for, theres helpful things, and computers, ipods, iphones, playing with them and listening to them is an amazing stress reliever.

    May 13, 2010 at 9:09 pm |
  711. Megan

    Most people think phones and computers are a distraction to kids. I think phones and computers can be either a distraction or information. It all depends on the person using it.

    May 13, 2010 at 9:11 pm |
  712. Linda

    I think there's a time and place for certain electronics. It's the same with our textbooks in class. We wouldn't use our science textbook in civics class! So we don't use certain electronics at certain times.

    May 13, 2010 at 9:20 pm |
  713. Molly

    Many things such as iphones and ipads can be helpful, but many people get distracted by the,m.

    May 13, 2010 at 9:38 pm |
  714. Ally

    Electronic's can be distracting but it depends how much you use the electronic's.

    May 13, 2010 at 9:41 pm |
  715. emily

    sometimes they could distract me but without ipods and all of the other electronics my life wouldn't be fun and happy anymore it would be boring and sad 🙁

    May 13, 2010 at 9:53 pm |
  716. julian

    I think that video games are information & a disraction but although obama says there a distraction i have to agree with him that teens can become an addiction.

    May 13, 2010 at 10:10 pm |
  717. Majed

    Although technology is exciting and distracting, you must think to the big picture.Technology is how almost all our continents work, and that will not change, because technology is a gift and we should appreciate it.

    May 14, 2010 at 1:26 am |
  718. ray

    ipods are not a distraction phones while you are driving is though

    May 14, 2010 at 8:09 am |
  719. Pat

    I think that technology can be a distraction if it is used too much, if it helps people to study when they listen to music thats ok, but don't try to play xbox and do homework, I've tried and it doesn't work.

    May 14, 2010 at 8:14 am |
  720. Paul

    I think that technology can be distracting but only if you are playing games

    May 14, 2010 at 8:14 am |
  721. tyler

    i think that ipods are great and that they are good for having some personal stuff. also if your bored and your not home you can just whip out your ipod or ipad and play some games or surf the web.

    May 14, 2010 at 8:14 am |
  722. Ashley

    ok. fact is, can you tell that teens have fun playing videogames. and can you honestly tell me that life without fun isn't life at all. no one would like to live without fun. and although they may be played alot, just remember, america is supposed to be free, and now that there are so many lawss trying to be passed, it is taking away our freedom as young children, teenagers and adults. everything is dangerous and has its risks but you should give us the chance to take our chances if we want.

    May 14, 2010 at 8:20 am |
  723. Jessica (:

    Most of the time the computer, ipods, cell phones and other electronics are a distraction but every once in a while I need it so I'm glad to have them. Like ipods can be a distraction but depending on how you use them they could actually help you with a lot.

    May 14, 2010 at 8:56 am |
  724. Zeng

    i think the prez. is wrong because tecnoligy has done so much for us it makes your t.v run and it makes your camera run too.

    May 14, 2010 at 9:08 am |
  725. chris

    At my school we have ipod touches and i pads for learning uses. there for they are not a distraction.

    May 14, 2010 at 9:13 am |
  726. Darek

    I dont think games are a distraction. Game are just a way for kids to have fun.

    May 14, 2010 at 9:14 am |
  727. Zeng

    pluse the prez can't band tecnology and peopple could go mad with music we need music and things to ocupie us 😀 :o)

    May 14, 2010 at 9:14 am |
  728. galena☻

    I think video games and technology is good and bad in a way. For kids who play video games nonstop that is a bad thing and we wonder why so many people are fat in the United States. But for kids who play on the X-box or wii for maybe three hours a week its ok. IPods and MP3 players are fine music is good isn’t it? Computers too they are great for finding answers to questions or buying stuff, but of course there are always some people who abuse it. So I agree and disagree with Obama.

    May 14, 2010 at 9:19 am |
  729. David

    i do not agree! Becuase I think that video games are not bad kids. Infact that some video games can make you smarter. But some video games can be a distraction and it can not be at the same time so kids can figure out clues or messages able to beat the game. But some peple don't agree becuase they want to save energy or want to go green and play outside for and hour a day.

    May 14, 2010 at 9:19 am |
  730. Aysha

    Well coming from me, a true gamer myself. I have time to play Modern Warfare 2 all day, but not do my homework. I could easily forget to do chores if was on my Xbox 360. I do love my video games, but even so they are very distracting.
    Even as my class is discussing how video games are distracting us from some different types of learning experiences, one of my fellow peers decided to go on an online gaming site.
    He's very intelligent.
    ( ;

    May 14, 2010 at 9:21 am |
  731. Zoey

    I think it is not a distraction because your not playing it in school. So it is not a distraction if you do your homework and all of your schoolwork and do what your told. Then the games shouldn't be a distraction as long as you do all that you are supose to do. You can be able to play video games and listen to music and go on technology. You can also use technology to do school work.

    May 14, 2010 at 9:22 am |
  732. montrell

    i think that the prez is not going to stop beacuse it will be crazy

    May 14, 2010 at 9:22 am |
  733. Riske

    I think that video games can be a distraction but sometimes they can be useful. Video games are a distraction because kids and teens use vidoes to try and get out of homework. I dont agree with the president about the I-Pod touches cause lots of people use music in there everyday life, cause normaly when I do my homework I listen to music. I also don't agree that texting can be distracting cause most of the time people text when there done with thier homework but that is most of the time. I don't agree with the president but I also agree. "The divices becomes a distraction, a diversion, a form of entertainment rather than a tool of empowerment...". I disagree cause look at the computer for instance cause like everyone uses the internet to do there homwork with out the internet how would we be able to do any of are homework. So if you take tecnology away we wont be able to do are homework.

    May 14, 2010 at 9:24 am |
  734. lilchris

    it is good to have games and phones because what would we do if there was no tecnoligy we wouldent be as smart but some games some people shouldent play them becuse it can make them think they can do what thay did in the game:D

    May 14, 2010 at 9:24 am |
  735. Chris

    I totally agree with everything President Obama says. Technologies are definitely a distraction and I think all technology is more or less destructive to teenagers like myself.

    May 14, 2010 at 9:24 am |
  736. chris

    i think videogames r a distractiom
    I think my ipod expands my creativity. When I feel bad I can listen to my songs and I feel free!
    The playstations and xboxs and video games are fine. Some children don't have parents home right after school and cant go outside. The video games and stuff keeps them busy and ussally children get sick of playin or board and end up goin outside if parents wouldent bug them as much to go outside they would choose to go out themselves same with practicing an insterment, So Video games, ipods, and ipads are fine they keep children like me busy!
    I think that the computer and phones are distraction because you you can do may things on them.Yet it has information because you may look for learning games or definitions. Maybe call a friend for help or ask what the homework is. So, it is both in my opinion.
    They can be distractions but come on, how else would i watch CNN student news?! and with out computer or tv, how would we know about this speech? I think they can help, ive made up soo many songs to the tune of a real song to help remember math equations and such. If you're on an electronic for more than ,like, 16 hours a day, WAYY too much! If you use technology to much then it becomes a distraction. If you use technology the right amount of time then it will give you information

    May 14, 2010 at 9:25 am |
  737. Aj Tj

    I think it can be a destraction. That kids are addicted to it. BUT it can be a place where kid that get picked on can fight back and not hurt any one. Also it is somewere people can exprecs them selfs

    May 14, 2010 at 9:25 am |
  738. Liz

    I do not agree with the president.I think that the internet can help us kids with information in the world.Then best thing about games is that it can teach us not to do things in the world.The internet can teach us things we will need in the world.The thing about some video games is that it is a form of entertainment to kids in the world.The point of kids playing video games is so they do not have to do any of the house work.<3

    May 14, 2010 at 9:27 am |
  739. Maddy

    Sometimes stress is a big matter in school.But,Some people only need a little music to keep their mind on what they are doing.It can even help you relax.Technology is growing and we need to be growing along with it.

    May 14, 2010 at 9:28 am |
  740. Zachary

    In some ways i agree and disagree. I do not agree with the government. I don’t agree because some people play video games not so often. I play video games because it is a form of entertainment. I also agree with the government. I agree because some people play video games all the time. If people play video games all the time some peoples eyes will get use to the pixels and it could ruin there eyes. If video games are distracting, then we should not use them in school.

    May 14, 2010 at 9:31 am |
  741. Emily

    I think that the new technology is helpful and not helpful. It is helpful because when people need to do research and there are very helpful websites and helpful apps on IPods. Also if there were to be no more technology like iPods and phones etc. since they are a good source of communication like if someone is on there way home and some one like attacks them they have their phones or iphone on them they can quickly call someone to help them. Another thing I think that is good about this technology thing is the iPods since the iPod is very portable people can go jogging with it. I agree with the president but don’t in a way. The reason I think that the new technology is not helpful is because that people can very carried away on their iPods and go crazy with buying apps. They can spend a whole bunch of money on apps when like in a couple of months their IPods will be sitting somewhere and no one will be using it and it will be like all the rest of the things. The iPod is just a fad people and so are the other technology things. Another thing is that technology is keeping kids from learning and other things in kids lives. Kids and adults can spend hours and hours on their technology things.

    "they are sometimes a distraction but they are helpful and fun"
    ~nico

    i agree with this!

    May 14, 2010 at 9:33 am |
  742. Brendon

    I think that technology helps us more today than ever before. Xboxes and playstations actually let kids go to a world where anything is possible.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:00 am |
  743. Tony

    I think these thing can give information
    depinding how it is used.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:01 am |
  744. Joshua

    video gamees are beast.And plus they sometimes are educational. And they help you prepare if you want to be a football player. They also help with careers in cooking such as maybe if you play a sims game it helps you prepare. Plus or should i say finally i think you can't stop games just because they use time because sometimes you don't have homework or if it is the summer. Thanks hope you understand.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:01 am |
  745. Bob

    Games help you relax from the long school day

    May 14, 2010 at 11:01 am |
  746. Dale

    No because they can help you learn just don't over do it.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:02 am |
  747. Bryanna

    I don't think that technonlogies are a distraction because at my school we use iPod touches in class, but we use them for learning. Also, my school uses TVs in every classrom for showing important information and messages. Obama may have a point, but most technologies do help.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:07 am |
  748. Stephen

    I love games they are. Sooooooo fun but when I keep dying then it's not fun

    May 14, 2010 at 11:07 am |
  749. Jose

    I think video games are a distraction if you want it to be. Technology is capable of negative influence but is also a pass time when it’s appropriate. What is not appropriate is getting it into a habit and not doing your work and making it a distraction.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:09 am |
  750. Angel

    I disagree with the president because I think games are beast. Some games teach you stuff, and others can show you how war is like or was like. Games can sometimes be a distraction but they give you something to do. Same thing with IPods and IPads, they entertain you. You can listen to music or play game when you’re in a long car ride. Things like IPods and IPads can help you do homework search something up quick whenever you need it.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:11 am |
  751. Kasey

    I think what Obama is saying is a bunch of bologna. These iPods and play stations do not distract, in fact there are some games that actually help us study. Like Learn Math for the DS. These games can also help us with our hand eye coordination. So Barack is wrong.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:11 am |
  752. Michelle

    Yes, i agree that it is a distraction. But it helps us relieve stress and tension. They help you feel better!

    May 14, 2010 at 11:12 am |
  753. Damaruis

    I think that the president is a little right and a little wrong. He is right because some people like to get obsessed with video game. Some people like to use their iPod on the go and while they are gaming they almost have a near death experience. Then he is wrong when people need a little free time to gather their thoughts have a little fun. And people like to listen to music on the go. And the violence could help them with them if they are getting robbed. People play army games and that could help them if they went to the army. :}

    May 14, 2010 at 11:13 am |
  754. Faith

    I think technology is educational because you use it in every class.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:14 am |
  755. Ametrias

    I don't think electronics is a distraction it can actually teach you something important it's not like we use all of the everyday electronics at school the only thing we really come in contact with is computers and iPod touches at school but we still use then for activities to learn

    May 14, 2010 at 11:14 am |
  756. austin

    technology is a good thing like cell phones that we use everyday to keep in touch with our family members and our friends. then we have all those playstation, x-box, and the wii systems that most people play on a daily basis like after school and while they play they eat and in a week they gain about 10 pounds. i think that they should play the game system when it's raining or when they brake there leg and they cant go anywhere. if i had a game system like the x-box 360 i would play it after school for about an hour then do my homework and eat then go for a run around town to stay in shape. but i wouldnt play it every day after school or i will get so addicted to it that i would play it every day for hours on end so i would play it about 4 times a week. so yes i do think that video games can be a big distraction. but for some people they arent.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:16 am |
  757. Emily(:

    I think that they are a distraction. I think that because kids/teenagers basically rely on video games, iPads, iPods, computers, Xboxes, Play stations, etc. But sometimes, technology is a good thing to use as a distraction, like some people listen to iPods when they need to think or vent, and sometimes people play video games to release anger. So in a way, they are both a good thing, and a bad thing.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:17 am |
  758. Sofia

    I think that they can sometimes be a distraction but, technology like computers can help us go farther by giving us the information that we need. So in a way they can be good. I agree with what Joe said, "If you use technology to much then it becomes a distraction. If you use technology the right amount of time then it will give you information." I think that makes a great point. I think that many great inventions used tehnology in the process.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:18 am |
  759. shelby

    I think that the games need to be put to a limit like maybe 2 hours a day you don’t need to go over board. I guess iPods are ok but they need to focus on other things. I know that videos games are a place to realest your anger that is what my brother does that all the time. It is kind of dumb how he goes to games instead of the problem. They need to learn games ARE NOT THERE LIVES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    May 14, 2010 at 11:18 am |
  760. Mason

    I think for the most part, President Obama is wrong. I play video games all the time and I have strait A’s. If you get your homework done on time and all your schoolwork done first, there is nothing wrong with it. I come home, do my homework and then play video games. But, if someone plays video games first, then it can get bad. Video games are not a waste of time. They keep kids entertained, so they are not bored. I think it’s crazy if they are on 16 hours a day or something, but still it’s fine if all schoolwork is done. Anyway who says video games are all bad? What’s wrong with doing a little racing, or football, or basketball? If you do your homework, and don’t stay on for 8 strait hours, video games are fine. The government cannot take away our fun and freedom.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:19 am |
  761. Jaydin

    After reading the comment on the CNN blog I think that technology (video games) is too big of a distraction because so many people would rather play games then do something productive. Like my brother, in the beginning of the year he used to play video game after school for hours, he never got is homework done and was failing. Then once my family told him he could not play anything on a school night he started to get his grades up. Technology is not all bad because you can learn more and quicker but when you use it too much and for the wrong reasons it is useless for anyone to have. Video games aren’t all bad because some of the games people create help children learn. They use math, science, health, and reading to teach little kids that learning can be fun. It is also easier to teach kids because they would rather play games than read from a textbook. It is also a good way to learn because when someone read something in a text book many people will not understand what it is trying to say, but when you go on the computer there are many websites that explain the same thing but in different wording so everyone can understand what they need to learn and grow in your knowledge.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:19 am |
  762. Nick

    I think that the technology we have should only be used when it is the most proper time to use it. If we let it get grasp of us for too long we lose our meaning in life.(EX: if you have something else to do then do that first, and then when you have nothing else to do use the technology and let yourself have a break.)

    Think about it and don't go overboard.

    Signed, Nick

    May 14, 2010 at 11:20 am |
  763. Samantha

    I think that electrionics can be a distraction, but only if you let it be. If you go on the computer to look up something for a class or project, you could end up on face book or what not. But if you stay detirminded and stick to what you went on the computer for, you can get it done. Electrioncs are powerful things, and they can be useful if you use them correctly.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:22 am |
  764. Angelica =D

    Video games can be a distraction, but ipods and other electronics can be helpful sometimes. I have even seen helpful games for little kids like the leapster and the VTech. Altough I haven't seen any learning games for teenagers or adults. Ipods can help us when we are bored but so can books. I like ipods, but it is true that I can get distracted by it. Like the new ipads, they are just a huge version of an ipod. Why get something in a bigger size, just to be better maybe? I think that the electronic companys want us to think everything new is brand new, that none of it is recycled ideas. The truth is they are recycled and reused again and again and again. Overall i agree with President Obama. We can read books instead or take walks. Find other ways to keep your brain busy!

    May 14, 2010 at 11:23 am |
  765. Ellie

    Overall, I agree with the President. Most people can get easily distracted and don't know when enough is enough. I think the computer is a positive impact on people because a lot of people use it to strengthen their knowledge. If people are using it for gaming, then I think that they are wasting there time. The time this is being used for playing games could be used to be reading a book.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:23 am |
  766. Kimberly

    I think that it’s not Obama’s choice rather to take away games or not. But on the other hand something’s like X-box, Wii, Playstation and many more things distract kids from learning. Instead of kids doing homework right away they go play with their X-box. So I guess I see where he is coming from.

    But also some technology is helpful. Like computers. We need computers to do research and type up a paper. It depends how the technology is being used.
    Obama is just looking for kids to have good grades to go far in life and get good jobs.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:24 am |
  767. Hailee

    My name is Hailee. I also agree with the president and all of those people who agree that video games, and other necessities that distract from learning. I think that IPods are okay:):) IPods are really not a distraction and there’s many purposes for and IPod such as listening to music.... Video games are a BIG BIG BIG distraction i mean all those BOYS and GIRLS who play too much games they become addicted to it and when they come to school that’s all they talk about and that’s what distracts them from there learning during school!!!!!! *Xbox’s are awesome but people honestly we need to put a LIMIT on it* I would have to say the only video game and system that is really recommended is the WII because u can play the WII fit and stay in shape........... I mean how else are we going to get are homework and things we need to get done if we sit down all day and play Video games? At my house my mom won’t even let us have Video games or Video game systems...... What I am trying to say is listen to Obama listen to the President He’s totally right…….. Listen to what he’s saying….. *Its all true*

    May 14, 2010 at 11:26 am |
  768. madley

    I think that technology is really good or else we would be bored all day.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:28 am |
  769. cainn

    ok well i think id agree with bob cause my teacher will not allow me to have head phones that the school provides.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:54 am |
  770. spencer

    Well I agree because some people take advantage of the informational technology the school districts provide for us. They go onto unblocked sites for games and all other sorts of entertainment while they are supposed to be doing work.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:54 am |
  771. Mike

    I think that Obama has a point, people spend to much time on electronics. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing but they aren’t learning they are playing video games and ignoring all of the information the internet has to offer. Its ok to play some video games I for one am a “sweaty gamer” but I do other things to.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:55 am |
  772. Jonathon

    I disagree what Obama says about the Video games are a distraction I think that some games are school related but some games aren’t...

    May 14, 2010 at 11:56 am |
  773. Jenna

    I agree AND disagree with the president! There are some kids that spend all day on the computer and playing video games... But there are also a lot of kids that go on to there devices and look stuff up for school and knowledge! I also think that it is a BIG addiction because kids make something on the computer such as a game, face book or something that you get addicted to and cannot put down for homework! Another thing is… I am pretty sure the president never uses computer, I-pod, cell phone, and other things…OF COURSE he uses them!! You would not be able to learn new things without the technology we have today!!

    May 14, 2010 at 11:56 am |
  774. Jessica

    I think that the president is right and wrong because video games can be a distraction to teenagers when they could go and hang out with their friends but in stead they play on the computer. But when they need to use the computer for resources on a school paper that is okay. The people who are called “sweaty gamers” use computers and video games way too much. But the people who use computers and video games responsibly know how to use them for the right things.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:59 am |
  775. Devan

    I think that obamam is right and wrong because games sometimes can be a distraction. But i think he is wrong because games arent a waist of time it just depends on how you restrict your self. I also think he is right because peope that spend hours a day playing video games are waisting there time and thats were i think obama went right when he talks about playing video games. But personaly think that we should decide wether how long we play but you should resrict your self.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:59 am |
  776. Trey

    I personnaly am not affiliated with video games, but i pods are a favorite of mine. even as i write this comment i'm listening to music. it all depends on how you restrict yourself from games like call of duty. i am not here to convince you to stop playing video games. its up to you to plan out your time whether its studying or playing skate 2. i would rather listen to music over any thing in the world. its my life and if video games are your life then live i guess because i would be upset without music.

    May 14, 2010 at 12:03 pm |
  777. Jerry

    I think that President Obama is somewhat right and somewhat wrong because, kids need something to play in their free time and would have nothing to do, but kids often play too much and get distracted from their work. Xboxes, Play stations, GameCube, and other game stations are played in a person’s free time, but kids get carried away and just keep on playing instead of doing their work. I think kids should only play when they got free time. Electronics on the go like Ipods and PSPs and Nintendo DSs are not really a distraction because those pocket electronics can do other things instead of playing games. They can take pictures, research on the web, talk to others and other non-games stuff. I think kids can play as long as they want after they have done all their work. If a kid wants to sit near the T.V. all day and play video games, that’s their choice. If they want to play games for life or go to college and get a degree, that’s all their choice.

    May 14, 2010 at 12:04 pm |
  778. Nick

    Some people think video games help progress while others see them as a distraction. I use computers, x-box, and mp3’s all the time. They are not a bad thing. In fact they can be a very good thing. What I mean by this is that, I play x-box because; I get a satisfaction of being able to complete something. I use the laptop as a way of a sort of free communication. “I think my I-pod expands my creativity. When I feel bad I can listen to my songs and I feel free!” Emma explained, I totally agree with her, I listen to my mp3 when I am having a bad day or something is bothering me, it just helps me get out my feelings without actually taking them out on someone or something. Thus I think that these types of devices are a good thing. They can help you communicate, get a satisfaction, and get your feelings out.

    May 14, 2010 at 12:04 pm |
  779. Bob

    I agree and disagree; videogames are a distraction only if you play them a lot. But if you only play them for an hour a day I don’t think it’s that bad. But before you play games and, stuff like you should get your homework done and, more important things. Also they can be of useful information. So if use elections wisely I don’t tink they are a distraction.

    May 14, 2010 at 12:05 pm |
  780. KERSTEN!!!! ☺☻♥♦♣♠

    I think that Obama is partially right, but only to an extant. We use computers for homework AND for fun. Way can’t we do them both??? Is it a problem that we have iPods, I Pads, computers??? If we can be trusted to do what needs to be done on the computer or whatever, is shouldn’t matter!!!
    I don’t see how iPods a re a distraction. People can multi – task, we can listen to music and do our work or whatever.

    May 14, 2010 at 12:05 pm |
  781. Jack

    I think that if you want to major in electronics, you should have an electronic device. Plus it's hard to avoid. We grow up with it.

    May 14, 2010 at 12:08 pm |
  782. CJ

    I HAVE A WII AND A XBOX 360 BUT I DON’T PLAY IT THAT MUCH CAUSE I GO FISHING WITH MY BROTHER AND MY SISTER. WE NORMALY DO MORE OUT DOOR STUFF CAUSE MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS AND ME ALL HUNT AND FISH SO I AGREE COMPLETELY I THINK WE SHOULD TRY TO DO MORE OUT DOOR STUFF AND SPEND LESS TIME ON VIDEO GAMES.

    May 14, 2010 at 12:10 pm |
  783. Jeffrey

    The Xbox 360 helps communicate with friends online without racking up the phone bill. So I call my 360 my telephone. All videogames do help people learn about the world. So I’m saying I disagree with Obama.

    May 14, 2010 at 12:12 pm |
  784. Chandler

    I agree and disagree because video games are really helpful to use by keeping us from being lazy. For example by using the wii you get a lot of exercise because it’s active. But people are going to play video games. But I don’t think so because that I see people in school playing video games on the computers during there class. Also people are so obsessed with video games that they play and not do anything else. So that’s one reason people get fat or get lazy and then there parents complain that there son or doter aren’t doing what they want when they bought the game in the first place.

    May 14, 2010 at 12:14 pm |
  785. Nate

    It can be a distraction if you use it all the time and get addicted to it so much that you use it when you are not supposed to or allowed to.
    If it has the internet {which some do}, you can look up information that can be useful in sertain situations.

    May 14, 2010 at 12:19 pm |
  786. eton

    hi carl and others my favorite kind of vidoe game is the calll of duty series wats yours

    May 14, 2010 at 12:29 pm |
  787. !!Hailee!! :):)

    My name is Hailee. I also agree with the president and all of those people who agree that video games, and other necessities that distract from learning. I think that IPods are okay:):) IPods are really not a distraction and there’s many purposes for and IPod such as listening to music.... Video games are a BIG BIG BIG distraction i mean all those BOYS and GIRLS who play too much games they become addicted to it and when they come to school that’s all they talk about and that’s what distracts them from there learning during school!!!!!! *Xbox’s are awesome but people honestly we need to put a LIMIT on it* I would have to say the only video game and system that is really recommended is the WII because u can play the WII fit and stay in shape........... I mean how else are we going to get are homework and things we need to get done if we sit down all day and play Video games? At my house my mom won’t even let us have Video games or Video game systems...... What I am trying to say is listen to Obama listen to the President He’s totally right…….. Listen to what he’s saying….. *Its all true*

    May 14, 2010 at 12:41 pm |
  788. Candace

    Technology can become a distraction from other school work, but also an information source. Right now I'm supposed to be researching Heart Diseases, but since I've finished I'm commenting here. Is this a distraction?

    May 14, 2010 at 1:20 pm |
  789. Grace

    I agree with the president. The technology now is a HUGE distration but some technology is helpful or "information".

    May 14, 2010 at 1:40 pm |
  790. Sidney

    I agree my little brothers have many game divices and when they are suposed to dothere home work they are playing tham and it becomes a huge distraction also most of the games are violent witch put a bad imige in the state of mind.

    May 14, 2010 at 1:45 pm |
  791. Doris

    I think that technology is good for kids who want to have some free time and use it wisely. It can be bad for the kids who play video games and are on the computer all day.

    May 14, 2010 at 1:46 pm |
  792. Seth

    Kids play video games because its a place for them to make their fantasy. Like a kid being born by wolves or making fire or ice. But its also a distraction and they wont do homework.

    May 14, 2010 at 1:47 pm |
  793. Billy

    i think the president is wrong. Since alot of workers (employees) work as game designer's. With out games the workers word have no customers and would be bankrupt. Plus you could get finger exercise for playing games. Video Games makes a child who they are. With out video game a child will be bored, lazy, and less knowing of the world.

    May 14, 2010 at 1:48 pm |
  794. Ashley

    I think that phones are a distraction to kids because I have seen kids on their cells in school, texting, listening to music, going on the internet and watching videos. Kids are dropping phones all day long!!! 1st hour Drop. 2nd hour DROP!!!!!!! So on and so forth.

    May 14, 2010 at 1:57 pm |
  795. Yasmine

    I think that it is a destraction because when you are playing any of that nonsence you are waisting time. When playing a dumb game you could be reading , studying, or playing outside. its a big booboo

    May 14, 2010 at 2:00 pm |
  796. Jennifer

    I think these technology Help you learn in differ

    May 14, 2010 at 2:36 pm |
  797. Nereyda

    I think it's not a distraction because many people in our world are using technology for work,school,ect . -nereyda

    May 14, 2010 at 2:37 pm |
  798. Jamie

    I think that that I pods and ps3 are good for adults and kids cause it's passes the time we have alone

    May 14, 2010 at 2:39 pm |
  799. Jennifer

    I think these technologys help you in different ways you just go to find out how it helps you.

    May 14, 2010 at 2:39 pm |
  800. Emmaleigh

    Techonogly is not a distraction it can be used to learn. Though it can also be used to have fun.

    May 14, 2010 at 2:40 pm |
  801. Shaikha

    I think it is really great Because technology is a good way to get things from really easy.

    May 14, 2010 at 2:40 pm |
  802. Jennifer

    I think these technologys help you in different ways you just got to find out how it helps you.

    May 14, 2010 at 2:41 pm |
  803. Avery

    I don't beleive that has something to do with school people have fun also that's what it is made for so I don't agree

    May 14, 2010 at 2:51 pm |
  804. ajh

    I do not think technology is a distraction. If people use it too much, and excessive, it could be considered a distraction. These are helpful, for weather, sports, and disasters. If we didn't have technology, we wouldn't know anything.

    May 14, 2010 at 3:08 pm |
  805. Alexx

    So were do I begin.... In MY opinion I think that Obama isnt even worrying about REAL issues. It doesnt take a rocket scientist to understand that we as the new generation rely on technology too much... and not enough. We need technology to survive. Its what provides us with information of whats happening with the world TO THE SECOND NOW PEOPLE!!!!!!! We need this information as it is vital to our very existence, but were is the line drawn? One person has stated somebody listening to music for over 16 hours a day while doing nothing else is a distraction. But what if that time spent on listening had a purpose? What if the listener is a musician who needs to learn a MASSIVE setlist for a MAJOR show a few days off. Or somebody spending time analizing the way CGI is used in video games... what if that person was observing because they were going to create the next accurate crash test software for new models of cars? Technology is a distraction and a blessing at the same time. The "president" needs to shut his trap with the small issues such as the youth "spending too much time texting and on the computer" and more time running the country... actually I must rephrase that... he should START running the country... if its not too late already...

    May 14, 2010 at 3:21 pm |
  806. STOCKo

    I think if you use technology as a distraction then it is, but if you use it for your job or school then its usfull.

    May 14, 2010 at 3:28 pm |
  807. emily

    I know that a lot of people use technology for good but sometimes they don’t. I have a lot of friends that text or use their phone during class. That happened to me during class today, but I don’t even own a phone, it was a note. But sometimes it is a distraction and can keep kids from doing their best during class. At home it’s ok but if it keeps them from talking with family or friends it isn’t the best.

    May 14, 2010 at 3:33 pm |
  808. Ashley

    I think that technology is for both informational and distraction. As Wesley said, “technology is good for kids who want to have some free time, but bad for the kids who play video games and are on the computer all day.” That is so true because kids who play games whenever they are home are the kids who normally do badly in school. If you are the computer for homework or other informational things and then you play games and other stuff like that, that is the best thing to do. Instead of playing games on your xbox 360 or psp or even your iPod, you should go outside and hang with your friends. So basically, I sort of agree with President Obama but not all the way.

    May 14, 2010 at 3:34 pm |
  809. Austin

    I think that technology these days are makeing it easier to do work on. like windows seven, its very user freindly. I think that if you use the new tech. correctly you can get a good education. and with the video game thing I think that the video games are distracting, but if you don't OD on games you will be ok.

    May 14, 2010 at 3:36 pm |
  810. justin

    I think electronics are very unhealthy for kids. I think the y get brain dead and they might lose there paying attention in class. I think that they shouldn’t go straight to video games. Other wise kids go threw there homework really fast and then go to games and melt there brain.

    May 14, 2010 at 3:37 pm |
  811. Heather

    I think the President is free to voice his opinion. If he starts trying to regulate "information" (which he already is – via the FCC's push for "Net Neutrality") he is overstepping his bounds and violating the 1st amendment

    May 14, 2010 at 4:00 pm |
  812. Chris

    What Obama is doing is he is being two-faced, because he has an alterior motive to trying to get us off of the things we have like ipods, iphones, and laptops and game systems, and that is the fact that he wants only his special networks to feed us info. So basically, he is being two faced. Also, president Obama is always on his blackberry, and always is updating things on facebook. So there is your evidence.

    May 14, 2010 at 4:57 pm |
  813. JASMINE

    I think these technologies can be a destraction because if someone is trying to tell u something important then you could just easily tune them out.

    May 14, 2010 at 5:12 pm |
  814. Girtrude

    It is ok if you do use technology sometimes but you should leave some time to go outside and do other stuff.

    May 14, 2010 at 5:16 pm |
  815. Julia

    I think that if you spend too much time using technology, you won't gt any use out of it. But if you spend a smaller amount of time on it, you may lean something.

    May 14, 2010 at 5:59 pm |
  816. Haven

    I think sometimes their a distraction. But it helps alot too in ways. Like in teaching, teachers have to have computers and such. So their not a HUGE distraction.

    May 14, 2010 at 6:37 pm |
  817. michael

    I think it would be a distraction like texting and driveing. peaple would foucus on listning to music insted where there driveing.

    May 14, 2010 at 6:55 pm |
  818. Breeanna

    I would have to say that technology is both! They help us research and learn more about whats going on not only in the country but in the world around us. But they can also be time consuming and distract us from doing things such as homework and chores.

    May 14, 2010 at 6:57 pm |
  819. Maisha

    I think they can be both informational and distractive. It depends on how you use it .

    May 14, 2010 at 7:51 pm |
  820. Ella

    Yeah, lets face the facts, lots of electronic devices waist our time but, they are also fun to use and help people relax. And as long as we get out and go places with family we won't be trapped in our texting or
    I pads.

    May 14, 2010 at 8:10 pm |
  821. Michaela

    I think ipods and other media can educational there are many video games and things you can put on your ipod that have math games and many other subjects you can play and download.

    May 14, 2010 at 8:13 pm |
  822. Meghan

    I feel that entertainment electronics are both a benefit and a distraction. Electronics can relieve stress, and also can give good information, like the computer, (example: CNN.news) but they can also be a distraction. You may want to play a game or text more than do your chores or homework.
    ~Meghan

    May 14, 2010 at 8:29 pm |
  823. bethany

    i think that a lot of good can come from electronics and they can be used for a lot of educational purposes

    May 14, 2010 at 8:34 pm |
  824. bethany

    i think that electroinca are educational and help with school work.

    May 14, 2010 at 8:36 pm |
  825. Emilee

    there's no problem with electronics we just have to use them right not using them instead of homework. Kids should be responsible about using electronics i see what he means but we are american citizens

    May 14, 2010 at 9:47 pm |
  826. Cora

    i think that some people get really distracted by a lot of technology because once you've started a game and you learn to like that game, it gets too addicting, but if you use it right, it can help you learn amd secceed. also, i have to agree with Jamie. technology can be useful because without it, there wouldnt be any cnn student news! the world wouldnt be right without it! anyway, technology can be good and bad for you all at the same time!;)

    May 14, 2010 at 9:55 pm |
  827. Nigel

    I believe that president Obama went a little to far by disowning technology as a distraction and should have considered the helpfulness of technology when reasearching and he should not have focused solely on how distracting technology can be.

    May 14, 2010 at 10:16 pm |
  828. Joy

    The president is right in many ways.The only thing that helps me learn is the computer.I mean, look at me! I been playing games and watching t.v!I have glasses.Trust me, they do not look good on me.
    I'm telling you.Electronics can make your eyes go bad, like me.
    Instead of using technology, how about using your BRAIN!!
    Your brain can be just as good as a computer, like me. I'm smart.
    How about BOOKS!! I love books! I love it more than technology!!
    So, listen to me.I can live perfectly fine without games. Now I changed.
    I don't know how, but whenever I play games,after 5 minutes,I turn it off,and say I'm BORED. So now,I never play them anymore.
    So,I'm on the president's side.Besides I only have a ds light. My brother has a ds light,computer,gameboy,another ds,and a gamecube.He is a game fan:(!! BYE!!

    May 14, 2010 at 10:35 pm |
  829. cheryl

    i think that it is information because the wii has internet to search the web for educational reasons!!!!

    May 14, 2010 at 10:41 pm |
  830. Matthew

    I disagree with President Obama because I think it is not a distraction. They are informative and useful. I do agree, though, that if you use them for nonsense stuff too much, then it becomes a distraction.

    May 14, 2010 at 10:53 pm |
  831. joyce

    I think the president is right.I don't really like games. I love books!!!!!
    I also love using my brain too. My brain is like a computer. So stop playing games, and get your mind awake right now! 🙂 Bye!

    May 14, 2010 at 10:58 pm |
  832. Kevin

    I think that they can be both a distraction and helpful for you because you can use electronics for homework or studying. But on the flip side they can be a distraction if you use them in the wrong way like texting during class.

    May 14, 2010 at 11:04 pm |
  833. David

    Video games are awesome, belive me but I have a 25% agreement with pres. Obama. People text a LOT. What I find in class is people texting when our teacher tells them not to. Although I'm in 7th grade and I don't have a phone, and I'm kind of glad I don't have a phone after you (carl) said that texting can be kind of an adiction. Thank you for listening to my rather long opinions.

    May 15, 2010 at 12:26 am |
  834. Keaton

    I think video games are good. PS3'S and XBOX 360'S have email kinda things. Its entertainment while talking to your friends. Though i do agry on going outside and playing or riding your bike. When you do things outside you can think about ways to make descisions in your life that youve not yet made. but me and my dad play games on our PS2 all the time. Its bonds our father\son relationship

    May 15, 2010 at 9:56 am |
  835. Shanya

    Yes, I think that many peaple just don't use money there sopposed to. I certainly agree with presidiant Obama because peaple just waiste it on other things. I think peaple should start saving up for college

    May 15, 2010 at 10:33 am |
  836. Konnor

    president Obama sounds like a communist when he says information is a distraction. I say that we shouldn't trust him.

    May 15, 2010 at 11:14 am |
  837. Vironica

    I think that vidio games distract students because the students will be playing on there game system insted of studying or doing homework.

    May 15, 2010 at 1:43 pm |
  838. CMAN

    Why would it be either. Its live Its the World growing with new technoligy and its helping us Communicate and have fun.

    CMAN Out. And out to my Classmates!!!

    May 15, 2010 at 2:47 pm |
  839. Kendall

    Technology can be helpful and a distraction.Like right now you are on a website that helps you learn.But if your on a website that only entertains you then it becomes a distraction.

    May 15, 2010 at 3:04 pm |
  840. laney

    it should be the childrens choice if they want to listen to their ipods , we should let them. i mean its not going to hurt us . ipods sharpen our listening skills as long as we dont have the amplitude up to loud .

    May 15, 2010 at 3:05 pm |
  841. Kevin

    He's wrong he just wants to control things... On my iphone and ipad i read the news everyday, i listen to audiobooks about stocks, when i dont know what something is or it means i google it, I use you tube on them to watch financial advice videos from warren buffett and others. I play games like Who Wants to be a Millionaire and Are You Smarter than a 5th grader. These things help me way more than they hurt me.

    May 15, 2010 at 4:07 pm |
  842. Sarah

    I believe that some video games can definitely be distracting. Video games can keep kids from doing homework or they would choose to not go outside. But some video games are actually educational and informative. So I think it just depends whether you limit your time on the video games and what games you are playing. Go outside and limit your video games!

    May 15, 2010 at 4:27 pm |
  843. Sarah

    Yes they are distracting! I totally believe the president is right! Kids- go outside and get some fresh air and try to only use the useful or informative games. I don't even know how to use video games!

    May 15, 2010 at 4:30 pm |
  844. Sadie

    I have an ipod and i love to use it. But I agree it can indeed be distracting...

    May 15, 2010 at 4:32 pm |
  845. christina

    well sometimes people use there technology in good and bad ways, like peoples cellphones are supposed to be used to talk to people not in an addictive way. but people now use them to TEXT everyday.

    May 15, 2010 at 5:06 pm |
  846. Kassie

    i think that children should listen to their ipods,and other thechnology if they want to. It may also depend on the parents decision.

    May 15, 2010 at 5:38 pm |
  847. Kathryn

    I think it is information because some electronics can teach us useful things and give us information about what's happening around the world like the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

    May 15, 2010 at 7:17 pm |
  848. matthew

    technology like the mp3 is distracting and doesn't help you learn at all.

    May 15, 2010 at 8:55 pm |
  849. Weber

    I can use my iPad as a tool for journalism, a textbook, or a novel to read on the train. Maybe the president should learn the benefits of new technology before laying down assumptions.

    May 15, 2010 at 9:14 pm |
  850. Jay

    I think Obama is distracting himself on this topic. This has nothing to do with being the president. If you ask me why hes focusing on things distracting others, I say he's just run out of idead.

    May 15, 2010 at 9:33 pm |
  851. brandon

    i think if u want to listen to music or play games thats fine you are still learning something.

    May 15, 2010 at 11:56 pm |
  852. Hansel

    I think President Obama is correct because games, ipods, iphones and nitendo d.s. distacts people and they get attracted to it. They never care about there school grades insted they care if they are going to lose in a game or they picked the wrong song/ number.

    May 16, 2010 at 1:31 pm |
  853. blake

    I would think the president is wrong because all the technolige in the world helps all of to use computers and plains.

    May 16, 2010 at 1:33 pm |
  854. helmmy

    President Obama is wrong because games are very fun. President O bama never play game before he will really enjoy it if he tried playing games

    May 16, 2010 at 1:34 pm |
  855. blake

    I think the president is wrong because all the technolige in the world is taeching us of to fly plain and fight in wars so we would be ready if a big war came are way

    May 16, 2010 at 1:38 pm |
  856. blake

    The president is make a fool of himself, allmost the whole world is run by computers and ipods so if he took that away the United States would be stuck with out computers.And what would we do if we were bored not read because what kid likes to read.

    May 16, 2010 at 1:46 pm |
  857. Stuart

    I believe that videogame consoles and ipods/ipads are meant to be an open medium to spread iformation o all kinds. That is why the apps on the ipods/ipads and videogames on their respective consoles exist, to give more specific objectives to the big, open slates. Depending on which apps and videogames you buy, uses the ipods/ipads and videogame consoles as a means to be distracted and procrastinate.

    May 16, 2010 at 2:58 pm |
  858. Natalie

    I agree because I have become very lazy with the homework, its because i either want to watch TV, play on the computer, or listen to music. Latly I have tried to do all my homework when I first come home from school so that I have the rest of the day to relax or play outside.

    May 16, 2010 at 4:23 pm |
  859. Grace <3

    I think that we should be able to take advantage of the technology but still be able to use simple things, not always concentrating on a computer/ electronically item!

    May 16, 2010 at 5:08 pm |
  860. Sarah

    I think Ipods, computers, and technology is not a distration at all. It's helping us run our counry and for other countries to communicate with eachother. Without technology we would be lost and probably not as smart as we are today.

    May 16, 2010 at 6:40 pm |
  861. anthony

    sometimes it can distract us from homework and getting out to do activities but its nice to have the technology around

    May 16, 2010 at 7:05 pm |
  862. isaac

    i think technology distracts us teens because were young and need to get out exercise and do our homework but its fun to have it

    May 16, 2010 at 7:17 pm |
  863. Togoontumur

    It may be true that game systems can be distraction and diversion, but at the same time they can be helpful to kids, when it time to relax or spend some time with friends when it is raining outside. Ipads and ipods can be helpful, since now a days they aren't just used for listening to music, they can do so much more than that. Overall today's technology helps us more than it hinders us. Wonder what tomorrow's will do?

    May 16, 2010 at 9:16 pm |
  864. Nate

    The ipad, ipod, playstation, gamecube, ect. are made for distraction, to help you get away from hard days and have a little fun. When you are bored or stressed, you can just use one.

    May 17, 2010 at 6:51 am |
  865. Rajim

    It all depends on how you use technology

    May 17, 2010 at 7:10 am |
  866. Marissa

    I completely disagree with blake

    May 17, 2010 at 7:11 am |
  867. Corey

    I think that the president is wrong because when you take away computers or i-pods how are you going to research about the people you need to look up on the computer or how are you going to make presentations for your students to study for exams or tests.

    May 17, 2010 at 7:15 am |
  868. stokley

    i feel that it is both, an ipod can find locations or get help, but it still doesn't belong in places where vital information is told!:):):):0

    May 17, 2010 at 8:07 am |
  869. Jamie

    I think that the technology we have today can help us, but they can distract us from what we need to do. If you are lost, you can contact your parents easily with a telephone. But some things are indeed distracting like the ipod, as it plays music. The ipod could help too though, you can hear it through the audio. On this topic, I am divided, as everything has it's good and bad points.

    May 17, 2010 at 8:34 am |
  870. Justin

    I don't see problems with video games or ipods. I use my PS3 for things other than gaming. =D

    May 17, 2010 at 8:54 am |
  871. Kyle

    I don't see what the problem is. I mean as long as they don't play forever and ever, I don't think it is a bad thing. I use my computer for more than playing games, I use it to keep in touch with my friends who aren't nearby. So I don't think that the electronics are that bad.

    May 17, 2010 at 8:57 am |
  872. Bentley

    i play xbox live and it is kind of a distraction its addicting but its a good stress reliever when i get off of school, it's nice to sit down and just relax and play games with my friend, but on the other hand my hand/cordnation has got better from playing gutiar hero wierd to say but its true.

    May 17, 2010 at 9:06 am |
  873. Bentley

    i meant hand/eye cordnation has got better

    May 17, 2010 at 9:10 am |
  874. Alexander

    i think he is right because violent video games cause violent thoughts and violent actions

    May 17, 2010 at 9:35 am |
  875. Sean

    I think technology is both; it depends how you use it. If you use it to complete schoolwork, then it is information. If you use it to play games during class, then it is a distraction.

    May 17, 2010 at 9:52 am |
  876. William

    I think it's not a distraction because it will encourage kids to want to make their own system or other items that will help our future, it just makes an extended network of ideas.

    May 17, 2010 at 10:03 am |
  877. Casey and Shayley

    I dont think that ipods and iphones are distractions. the president even has a iphone and he said himself that he doesnt know how to work technology.

    May 17, 2010 at 10:05 am |
  878. Molly

    I think that at times technology can be distracting, but at other times it can be helpful. For example, you can spend your free time playing games on the computer, but the computer is also really helpful for school when you need to look things up! Another example is the tv. Channels like disney, nick, and tlc that kids watch a lot are just for fun, but channels like animal planet and the discovery channel are very educational.

    May 17, 2010 at 10:30 am |
  879. Bryn and Gabi

    We agree that technologies can be distracting, but can also be useful. Entertaining apps should be time managed better. The educational apps we use are interactive and provide an alternative venue to just reading textbooks.

    May 17, 2010 at 10:33 am |
  880. Bryn and Gabi

    Educational technology is very useful, but entertaining games don't help you learn and they're time consuming. It doesn't hurt to put down your ipod for a while and go do something outside. It's all about balance.

    May 17, 2010 at 10:43 am |
  881. Sara

    i agree with obama that they could be a distraction because when a kid comes home and has many missing assingnments and has to do them by tomarrow, but instead he goes o his room and play a playstation. i do not think that ipod are a distraction because they are ment for music!

    May 17, 2010 at 11:02 am |
  882. Delaney

    our world wouldnt be a good place without computers and other things, but we should pay attention to the amount of time we are using on electronics

    May 17, 2010 at 11:15 am |
  883. Sara

    With the new modern day media it's hard for kids not to be a little bit additicted but parents need to draw the line from where there is some innocent game playing to obsessive amount of time game playing on electronic systems.

    May 17, 2010 at 11:16 am |
  884. Tatianna

    With the new mordern day media might be distracting. But parents should let kids play games but some games are distracting. But the presidant also yous`s technology too, but he is telling people that it is distractive but he is using it too

    May 17, 2010 at 11:17 am |
  885. penyane

    i think that everything would be very difficult without electric devises. back then everything was easy but now it would have to change laws like child labor laws.i think its just dumb.

    May 17, 2010 at 11:20 am |
  886. penyane

    i think the persdent is wastin his time no human but maybe a hippy would give up technolgy. i shur wouldnt i would die without a computer or cleephone. but i do agree that most kids are over using their technolgy just tad bit to much they should be outside playing or meeting with their freinds instead of texting most of tthe time me and my freinds even text standing next to eachother fopr that i got my phonr token away.

    May 17, 2010 at 11:26 am |
  887. bob

    obama is out of his mind

    May 17, 2010 at 11:48 am |
  888. Victoria and Lucia

    We think that technology is information, but if you handle or use it the wrong way, it could become a distraction, me and vicky listen to music while we do our homework and we end up doing it faster.

    May 17, 2010 at 1:25 pm |
  889. Frontier School

    We strongly disagree that electronics are a distraction to the student mind. If they a distraction half of the students at my school would have low grades. But in stead my school is having an average of B's and A's.

    May 17, 2010 at 1:55 pm |
  890. Emily

    Sure, video games can be distracting, but these games can teach you many life lessons. Video games are thought to brian wash children, but the truth is it actually benifits the kids by giving them a reason to do good in school, because if grades slip no video games. So, in summary video games can help benifit our society!

    May 17, 2010 at 2:09 pm |
  891. Jasmine

    Hi Carl , I think Obama is right because there area lot of kids that play e-box and that's allwhat they do. And kids should exercise and play more.

    May 17, 2010 at 2:26 pm |
  892. Dillon

    No I don't think that mp3 players,Xbox 360s or i pods are distractions.

    May 17, 2010 at 2:40 pm |
  893. Rebekah

    it all depends on how you use your computer and your phone etc. If you use it to catch up on the latest news like CNN Student News then it is fine but if you are spending all of your time on the electronics and not doing school work that is when it becomes a distraction.

    May 17, 2010 at 4:38 pm |
  894. layke

    I think some times it is the medias fault but not yours but it your fault to when you forget a book or something

    May 17, 2010 at 5:02 pm |
  895. Tara

    I think that technology can be a distraction- especially the internet. I always get off track and end up visiting websites that I didn't intend to get on.

    May 17, 2010 at 5:13 pm |
  896. Nat

    Sometimes technology can be useful in getting information. For example I like a lot of pages on Facebook that are science-related. I also watch the news on my computer. However, many people abuse technology as an excuse to not do their homework. I think as long as there isn't unlimited technology access we'll be okay.

    May 17, 2010 at 5:23 pm |
  897. elijah

    I have mixed feeling because with out computers, or cell phones we wouldn't be able to contact any one if there's an emergency. Or the computer people wouldn't be able to play games, or do research, or in police stations,or ther hospital they wouldn't be able to track the people in trouble.

    May 17, 2010 at 5:50 pm |
  898. Mark

    I think they can be both. you can learn new stuff from the internet
    and other stuff like that, but its a distraction cause of the music games and other stuff on it like that, its also very fun to play 😉

    May 17, 2010 at 6:27 pm |
  899. Erika=)

    Yes, ipods, mp3 players, computers, ipads, and so many more electronics are distractions to studying. Though we tend to sometimes need a computer or ipod to keep up with the news and our friends, it doesn't mean that we have to use them 24/7. It's not like you can't go play outside or even go read a book every once in awhile. Scientists even say that the teens who tend to text more seem to have lower grades! So don't go blaming Obama when he comes up with an idea like this one, because it's true, electronics can interfere with our studying!

    May 17, 2010 at 6:39 pm |
  900. Renée

    I think President Obama makes a good point. Although the devices iPad,iPod, iPhone, Xbox, ect. are informational, but only if you use them in such a way. Although I enjoy playing games on the devices, it is distracting.

    May 17, 2010 at 7:09 pm |
  901. Tina

    I think that in most cases ipods, ipads, video games, etc. are a distraction. They combine learning with entertainment and that is a problem. We should focus on one at a time and try to not multi-task.

    May 17, 2010 at 7:21 pm |
  902. Cassie

    I agree with the president, but, the country is beginning to be run by these electronics.

    May 17, 2010 at 8:21 pm |
  903. Peter

    I think obama is defiantly wrong. All these computers and ipods and game consoles are building our awareness about how to use new technology, And knowing how to use technology is a great skill to have for after high school or college when your trying to get a job. Also if you know how to use a computer you can go to school online. For our generation technology is a big part of our lives. We should be thank full

    May 17, 2010 at 8:32 pm |
  904. William

    Maybe it is, maybe it isn't. Either way, for companies who produce them, it's just buisness.

    May 17, 2010 at 9:01 pm |
  905. Megan

    I think that a big distraction is trying to find information online- you never know whether a website for your topic is covering it truthefully or not.

    May 17, 2010 at 9:36 pm |
  906. Apurva

    I love video games and they are a good getaway from homework, but video games are diatracting and can also damage your eyes.

    May 17, 2010 at 11:03 pm |
  907. Brandon

    Technology is in no way distracting. I mean it can be if you let it control you but moderation is always the best tool. I can't honestly say that I would be able to perform my day to day tasks without picking up my xbox controller in the morning.

    May 18, 2010 at 4:23 am |
  908. Mason

    Technology can be both a source of information AND a source of distraction, it all depends on if it is used or abused. There are so many people that abuse the technology available to them, they use it all the time and often don't care about doing anything out, These people stop being productive and stop caring. But there is another group of people too, I think this group is smaller but it's still here. This group uses technology in a useful and informative way. The people in this group don't get easily distracted and care a lot about what they, and other people are doing.

    May 18, 2010 at 7:55 am |
  909. Cameron & Quinn

    We think the tecnology is a distrasction because we use it for our own entertainment. But also it is way for us to keep in contact with family and friends and lets us know news when we need it.

    May 18, 2010 at 8:14 am |
  910. Sammie

    I think it's a distraction because we are so consumed by keeping up to date it controls our lives.

    May 18, 2010 at 10:09 am |
  911. 715

    I disagree because alot of times these devices help us keep track of things and not forget them which turns into good results.

    May 18, 2010 at 10:29 am |
  912. Brian

    I say that ipods and cell phones are great from information. For me music actually helps me concentrate. So i think it is great for information not a distraction.

    May 18, 2010 at 11:45 am |
  913. Derek

    I think entertainment could be used as a great tool to communicate information because everyone texts and plays video games now.

    May 18, 2010 at 11:53 am |
  914. Tyler

    the oil spill needs to be contained it is killing lots on animals and fish. They should keep trying to contain the spill. I think Obama needs to keep trying to do everthing to contain the spill.

    May 18, 2010 at 11:58 am |
  915. scott

    video games are a distraction while ipods can be a good source to gather information for a research paper or something like that.

    May 18, 2010 at 11:59 am |
  916. Tyler

    Video games are bad, but they keep kids entertained. You can also learn alot from video games. It also increases your eye hand cordination.

    May 18, 2010 at 12:00 pm |
  917. Kathrin

    I think that President Obama has a point, too much of anything is never good, but another question that could be posed regarding his statement could be would the children and young adults of the technology age be able to even function without these devices? We have grown so used to the privelege of instant gratification or knowledge that most of us would be lost without technology. Personally, I don't know if I could. I use my phone, computer, and iPod at least once a day each and we even utilize the computer in school at least once a day. President Obama may have a point, but I don't think that people will stop using their beloved gadgets any time soon.

    May 18, 2010 at 12:17 pm |
  918. Hunter

    I'm on both sides cause technology can help you learn, but in sometimes can be a disstraction

    May 18, 2010 at 1:33 pm |
  919. Emma

    Electronics are okay..................... SOMETIMES!!! This is where EVERYNE goes wrong. They think it isokay if they ALWAYS ALWAYS go on their electronics. They ae constantly listening to their iPod Touch and neglecting their homework. That's a big no-no. >:( They have to be better at doing what they are SUPPOSED to be doing, instead of what they WANT to do because they FEEL LIKE doing it.

    May 18, 2010 at 2:22 pm |
  920. tezmariah

    i disagree with obama, i mean some things on the television can be a distractoin but other than that, there are so many televison shows that can help you learn new things you have never known before and the news paper gives tons of information we need to know so does the computer.

    May 18, 2010 at 5:37 pm |
  921. Allison

    Technology is our future and we can not escape that. Do I think that some things like video games are distracting? Yes. But that will not make them go away, we just need to hope that technology will take a turn for the better.

    May 18, 2010 at 7:35 pm |
  922. Jonathan

    Too much of anything is never good–Balance is everything. Now in the modern age, everything is so much faster–faster cars, etc. The Internet is a great resource. So much information is out there. But if you get too cooped up at home, that is not good either.

    Yeah, some people defend video games with their eye hand coordination junk, but i have a more solid defense. It stimulates the mind, and it increases social activities. It could possibly build self-esteem. Once again, too much of something is never good.

    May 18, 2010 at 9:45 pm |
  923. Sam

    I think video games are a good thing. They may put pressure on us now, but eventually we will be taught and learn with this devices if technology continues to advance.

    May 19, 2010 at 9:02 am |
  924. Mike

    Electronics are good. Video games can be good. Especially, now, with technology only expanding. This video game/electronics chat can be a good thing possibly getting them involved in tech ed for the future.

    May 19, 2010 at 9:02 am |
  925. JaQueshia

    I think kids should have eletronics to play with but then at that when they get to school they should just leave there eletronics at home. If i was a parent i would make sure my child have he/she homework befor he/she gets on his/her ipod, video game, etc. If mt child start to fell her/ his classes at school then i will take away the things they love so that they can get thier work to get it back.

    May 19, 2010 at 9:34 am |
  926. REBECCA

    Enough on the ression how about saving indangered speices. CHINCHILLAS, come on thier so cute. Wake up and smell the roses once its gone we can't get it back.

    May 20, 2010 at 12:22 am |
  927. austin

    I think you sholud pay what you Can aford. If people pay what it cost they wont have any money leftb

    May 20, 2010 at 11:44 am |
  928. Kelsey

    I think sometimes it can be a distraction if you need to do school work. BUT i think its just a way to pass the time and have fun.

    May 20, 2010 at 12:52 pm |
  929. Jenna(:

    I agree and dissagree with the President because they could be both. Some video games are helpful and not all violent and what not. And computers can be distratcting if you are on your Facebook or IM all day but if you are on the computer doing reasearch of school work it's information. I think most kids I know text , use the computer, or play video games just for fun. So yes, these are mostly distractions but can be used for information.

    May 20, 2010 at 7:39 pm |
  930. Andrea

    I agree with the president that it is a major distraction! Kids spend more time doing that than studying or doing their homework which affects our future! They also can't get enough of it so instead of playing outside, walking their dog, etc.... they stay inside and play video games all day!

    May 20, 2010 at 9:30 pm |
  931. Amanda

    they are NOT a distraction, they can be really helpful when you need them most.

    May 20, 2010 at 10:11 pm |
  932. luke

    video games a distraction that is just wrong

    May 21, 2010 at 9:05 am |
  933. Jayla

    this is to namen you said that video games are a distraction, your ipod has games on it but the only thing is its portable thats the only thing ok so anyway an ipod has games on it games are games video games are no different from any other kinds of games. (u say period) and just because its portable doesn't mean that its a home game.............. 🙂

    May 21, 2010 at 11:20 am |
  934. Olivier

    New techonolgy can help us learn new things. I research on the computer.Plus techonolgy can help me with my projects.It can also be used for fun after a stressful day or week.I never play games on the computer or play with other stuff on school days.

    May 21, 2010 at 11:25 am |
  935. max

    well it all depends some people just dont pay attention and when there driving they just dont care for the safty of them selfs and other drivers on the road like people could be smart about when they text and where they text like if they got a text while driving just wiat till you get outta the car to look at your text so you keep your self say so i really dont aggree with him it just depends who your talking about

    May 21, 2010 at 1:06 pm |
  936. Calli

    Sometimes technology can be a distraction for homework and other things but it's fun and something to do.

    May 21, 2010 at 1:12 pm |
  937. Raven

    I believe that we are the future and in order to create new tecnology we must know how it works.So i think that Television, Cell phones and Xboxes are a fun way of learning. And don't forget that you can learn news of our world thourgh computers, cell phones and television. Also i bet Obama can't go one day with out using his computer or cell phone, it's anything but a distraction.

    May 21, 2010 at 3:35 pm |
  938. Lizzie

    i am very surprised at music and video games as media. of course it is a good thing but like everything can be abused. my opinion is that there are better medias to use to make yourself smarter and more aware of what is going on in your country and world although they do have -albeit limited- beifits.

    May 21, 2010 at 6:18 pm |
  939. Charmaine

    Yes I think Ipods, video games, Xboxes, and other eletronics are an distraction because It can bring down your grades in school and you don't pay enough attention in school then when your playing your video games or Ipods. It is also a distraction because when it comes to your school work you have to paty attention in school but when it comes to after school then that is when you can play your video games and other things. But the important thing is to get your work done first then you can play later after you are done getting your homework done.

    May 23, 2010 at 11:21 am |
  940. victoria

    It can be both a distraciton and and imformation i mean yeah were kids we love playing games and every onece ina while its ok but then it can also be imformation like the guy that saved himself tell the doctors got their in haiti so it can be both but i think it is ok as long as u go out and have fun and are doing something else than playing games all day

    May 23, 2010 at 12:58 pm |
  941. Cesare

    Technology is definitely a great way for learning and doing or listing to the things tat you love but at the same time can be very distracting. I love to play my playstation and I am a good student in school but sometimes it can be so addicting that forget to do homework or don’t get finish. But I also think it is a good way to get away and get stress off your mind.

    May 24, 2010 at 10:36 am |
  942. emily

    i think that vidoe games and other things can be distracting but i think that iPods are not.

    May 24, 2010 at 1:39 pm |
  943. Arriana

    I guess you can say there is a negative and positive to everything, and of course people go overboard, too much of anything is bad. oranges are good for you but if you eat 50 a day it can be harmful. To say all electronics are a distraction is a hypocrital thing to say because everyone has used electronics at one point or another, as you watch the student news you are sitting in front of a computer or call you mother to say i love you. as time goes by electronics are improving everyday and information is being given through these devices. So yes they can be a distraction if you make it that way but i think overall they were meant for a good purpose. As for video games the time on them should be controlled, they are only suppose to be for entertainment and some people get addicted to them.

    May 24, 2010 at 3:47 pm |
  944. Dick

    both some games can be good and some just leave you hanging behind
    in school.

    May 24, 2010 at 4:54 pm |
  945. austin

    i dont like president obama. i think that the only distraction goin on is him. if he says that Xbox's and playstations and other game system counsels are a distraction, then he is crazy. if there is no type of game system counsels in this world then theres no specific source of entertainment, then everyone in this world would be bored...and i really dont like being bored...

    May 24, 2010 at 8:54 pm |
  946. Vasudha

    I think that these technologies could be distracting if they aren't used for education purposes. I think that schools don't need thing like Xboxes and Playstations. And Ipads would have to have filters and limited apps. These technologies are distracting and informative at the same time. Students just need to know how to balencs the two properly. Teachers would also need to learn the right time to bring these technologies into the classroom.

    May 28, 2010 at 10:18 am |
  947. Noah

    I think that Phones, and iPods and such can be helpful. Like right now I am typing this on an iPod touch. But other times I think they are.very distracting, people are almost always on their phones, and they stay on them for long periods of time. People use phones and iPods for just about everyhing.

    May 28, 2010 at 10:23 am |
  948. Jon

    I dnt think video game consoles and iPods ar a distraction becaus they help us enlighten our day fom the hard work we have done . Also because thyw are put in the entertainment Area for a reason,, to entertain us !!

    May 28, 2010 at 1:53 pm |
  949. taylor

    i agree with president Obama. i go to a charter school in the city and i hear alot of the boys talking about their video games. while their saying the cool things about their videos games they are most likely not getting good grades. i say this because if you spend most of your time playing video games or on the phone wher is the time for homework. is it at ten oclock at night when your tired? just asking when?????????!!!!!!!!!!!!

    June 2, 2010 at 10:11 pm |
  950. Jeanne

    My sixth grade students disagree with President Obama and feel that technology is helpful an dnot distracting.

    June 4, 2010 at 3:04 pm |
  951. Megan

    i dont think its a distraction. i doesnt disract me from my homework.

    June 4, 2010 at 8:16 pm |
  952. Ben

    I don't agee with the president it will only be a distraction if the stundent wants it to be. without the media we have a hard time communicating their where made for fun and to save us time

    June 6, 2010 at 7:14 pm |
  953. Lizzie

    I do agreee with the president they can be distracting, in school or when we are doing homework but when we have free time they can be enjoyable and i think we should be allowed to use ipods, ipads, etc. so basically there are time s i believe we shouldn't use them and times we should be allowed to use them.

    June 14, 2010 at 11:11 am |
  954. molly

    i think games, toys, etc. are distracting. Kids will won;t to spend all of their time on these games. It will make homework or other work things boring an d horrible.

    June 14, 2010 at 11:11 am |
  955. abhishek

    I think the mast technolgy is distracting and is mostly used for gaming ar entertainment purposes.

    June 14, 2010 at 11:13 am |
  956. Gina

    I don't think video games are a distraction as long as you don't play them 24/7!!!!

    June 14, 2010 at 11:16 am |
  957. MIkayla

    they only become distracting when they're used in the wrong way, like when you use them for too long

    June 14, 2010 at 11:16 am |
  958. Kylie

    I think that kids should be able to listen to iPods, watch TV, and stuff like that. It wouldn't be fair if they weren't alllowed to, because it's what they like. And it's not really a distraction.

    June 14, 2010 at 11:17 am |
  959. Marjanna

    I think lots of the technology today is distracting. In a kid's world, video games and iPods are hours of fun, but also hours of sitting still and staring at a screen. In a grown-up's world, they use these kind of things to keep in touch with people and talk about business. They keep the adults from spending time with their family. I'm not saying these things aren't fun, I like video games. But they are very distracting.

    June 14, 2010 at 11:20 am |
  960. Cathy

    i believe that these technology devices can distract us, especially students. i myself rarely use things like that. and i think that they can make students'grades get lower, so in my opinion, the parents or the government should limit the time students can use devices like these.

    June 14, 2010 at 11:29 am |
  961. alex

    i think that it can give info, if the student wants it to give it

    June 14, 2010 at 11:31 am |
  962. Rebecca

    I think Obama is right that music is distracting
    Although some people help themselves concentrate and it helps them calm when they are stressed.

    June 14, 2010 at 11:36 am |
  963. Jordyn

    i do not think it is a distraction. it would only be a distraction if you would want it to be.

    June 14, 2010 at 11:38 am |
  964. annemarie

    sometimes an ipad,ipod, ect.can be a distraction but it is proble ment to be use to look up information.

    June 14, 2010 at 11:41 am |
  965. Olivia

    I think that the new tecnolegy is sometimes distracting but some thines the new tecnolgy helps up for exampl during calls.

    June 14, 2010 at 11:45 am |
  966. emma

    i think it is very distracting in school for kids to be using technology. but they should be able to have cell phones in school ,so they can call a parent in an emergency.

    June 17, 2010 at 11:08 am |
  967. abhishek

    Trevin wrote on May 10th, 2010 7:45 pm ET

    "I disagree because alot of times these devices help us keep track of things and not forget them which turns into good results."
    I think these tecnologies are only used for gaming.

    June 17, 2010 at 11:37 am |
  968. Drake

    I think thats a giant mess of gray area, but I personally think it helps me. i do home work wile i listen to music it helps me concentrate, and the news especially cnn student news helps me get that much closer to being a polotician. although i think in society today its more common for all the technology to be a distraction to kids and teens.

    July 29, 2010 at 11:59 pm |
  969. Lily

    Yes, they are distracting. Don't put them down, though. Make the information the distraction!

    August 21, 2010 at 7:15 pm |
  970. DAve

    I agree with president Obama because this type of technology keeps kids away from socializing, and the ones who can not afford it becomes a pedrator of some freak. This type of technology should be there but limited use. I mean how many kids are on facebook or use this type of technology 24hrs a day.

    August 22, 2010 at 7:51 am |
  971. Reilly

    I don't have a Playstation, but my dad does. Plus he doesn't even let me play is; so its not that much of a distraction to me 🙂

    August 24, 2010 at 3:01 pm |
  972. Reilly

    I REALLY WANT AN IPOD TOUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 🙂

    August 24, 2010 at 3:04 pm |
  973. Ariel

    This is not a distraction for students. This is like there free time to us. They even give information about history. They let you have fun. At school you stay 8 hrs sitting dound in a chair.

    September 24, 2010 at 10:27 am |