The Task:
I was asked to keep a journal log to keep track of all interactions I had when I used my phone. I was given a small composition notebook and a specific pen that I MUST carry with me at all times. Considering the world I have grown up in, I figured I would be using my phone more often than I thought. This assignment taught us that we do not interact with others in person as often as we should.
Phone Interactions
Interactions:
- 30 interactions
- 5 hours 36 minutes 3 seconds
Textual Interactions:
- 9 interactions
- texts, calls, SJU alerts, email
Social Interactions:
- 18 interactions
- Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, Communications homework
Textual and Social Interactions:
- 2 interactions
- Homework, Email
Activities
- Social Media: 15
- Texting: 5
- Voice Calls: 5
- Communications Homework: 2
- Email: 1
Given a forty-eight hour rule I began to jot down all of my phone interactions. I can admit that I did change how often I check things on my phone. It seemed like a hassle to grab the notebook and pen just to look at social media or to text someone. I did not have as many interactions because I c
hanged my phone activity. Instead when I did use my phone I spent a longer time using it so I didn’t have to write down so many interactions. This assignment made me realize that I do use my phone more than I actually think. I spent 5 hours just wasting time while I could be talking to my friends or doing homework. I do depend on my phone more than I should. Phones give an excuse to not have to talk in person. Such as, I just sat on my phone in the elevator just so I could avoid and awkward conversation with the kid I was with. It’s almost a comfort zone to escape real life and live behind a screen.
I have learned through this experience that I depend on using my phone for social interactions rather than doing them in person. I avoid talking in front of others just so I can his behind a screen. Although technology has made it easier to communicate with my family back home, I use them as an excuse to stop homework and procrastinate.
I was one of the first people in my friend group to get an IPhone. At first I had no purpose but to play games and text others here and there. Now I depend on it for directions, Google, and what my friends are up to back home. Throughout the years my phone activity has definitely increased. Social media has had a huge impact because it distracts you from the important things in life. As I 
mentioned I use my phone to avoid the face-to-face interactions. I find it easier to text someone instead of meeting up to answer a question. Even with referring to class, taking an online instead of meeting in person made me more comfortable to answer questions. I felt confident and was able to discuss more.
This assignment has made me more aware of my surroundings and how to interact with others. Instead of hiding behind a screen I should put down the phone more often and socialize more. I have learned that although my phone can help me in many ways it is also hurting me. This has given me the opportunity to realize that I can change my behaviors and become more involved in the real world.