SHOULD CELLPHONES BE ALLOWED IN SCHOOLS? by Edgardo Gonzalez

2024-11-27 03:35:59 UTC

I think it's a major distraction and can take away from a learning.

catherinensharp — 2024-11-27 14:24:43 UTC

There are great uses that smartphones have in school as a way to provide additional resources when school funding has been cut leaving students without technology to complete assignments, allows them to look for information on a global scale as we know technology in schools is limited based on funding cuts.

The key to allowing cellphones / smartphones in school is to increase the education around safe use of these devices. This is by way of increasing awareness of critical thinking, internet safety, and reducing access to social media until students are 18 years old. In order to change behaviour, it would need to be it's own course with outlined curriculum to identify the outcomes, as well as a deeper understanding as to how it impacts brain development and social behaviours too.

What is the real difference between brining a cellphone or an ipad? or even a laptop? Access to the internet is still there, the distraction is still present - teaching students strategies around how and when to use them is the key!

2024-11-29 13:03:47 UTC

I believe cell phones should be allowed in schools because they can serve as vital tools in emergency situations and as safeguards for student well-being.

Firstly, in extreme emergencies, such as an unauthorized person entering the school, students can use their cell phones to take videos or photos to document the situation. This can provide critical evidence to help authorities respond more effectively and ensure the safety of everyone on campus.

Secondly, cell phones can be a tool for accountability. If a teacher mistreats a student, whether it's verbally, physically, or sexually. Other students could use their phones to record the incident and report it to the proper authorities. This ensures that inappropriate behavior is not ignored and that students feel protected.

However, cell phones can be a distraction in the classroom. I believe this can be managed with a strict policy allowing cell phone use only when authorized by the teacher for specific activities, such as research or other educational purposes. This balance ensures that cell phones remain tools for safety and learning without hindering the classroom environment.

In conclusion, with clear policies in place, cell phones can contribute to a safer and more accountable school environment while minimizing distractions.

josieacea — 2024-11-30 20:00:12 UTC

I think that cell phones should be allowed in schools because they have many different uses that can be beneficial in a school setting including the following:
-Cell phones let students use educational apps (like Duolingo and Khan Academy), do quick research, and stay organized with calendars and task apps.
Example: A teacher might have students use a dictionary app during a lesson.

-Cell phones help students contact parents or emergency services when needed, and help parents stay in touch about schedules or emergencies.
E.g. In bad weather or lockdowns, cell phones help families stay connected.

-Cell phones help students learn how to use technology responsibly and find reliable information. This can be supported by putting policies in place by the schools.

-Students can work together on projects using apps like Google Meet, and teachers can make lessons more interactive with tools like Kahoot!
E.g. A teacher could use a poll during a history discussion.

-Cell phones can help students with learning challenges by offering tools like text-to-speech or giving them ways to learn at their own pace.

2024-12-03 17:13:57 UTC

Against

I work really hard to keep students engaged when teaching. I teach adults. So, for me it is a hybrid answer. I want cell phones face down until I ask them to look something up or engage in a learning activity.

I also give a 5 minute cell phone break every hour for those who just can't help themselves.