Do phones have their place in the classroom?
by Regis Rouzier
In today's digital age, having our phones has become as routine as putting a shirt on before stepping out of our house, finding their way into every aspect of our lives.
One of the occurring debates in education is whether these devices should be allowed in our schools. As a student, this debate is essential, as it raises questions about the role of technology in education with its potential benefits and drawbacks of allowing students to use these devices in our classrooms.
Embracing smartphones in the classroom can be a game-changer for modern education. While the potential issues are real, the advantages are equally appealing, introducing a strong case in their favor.
First and foremost, it is obvious that smartphones can be powerful tools for learning. With the infinite amount of information available at our fingertips, they give us opportunities to access a world of knowledge in seconds, allowing users to quickly fact-check.
“I don’t know what I would do without my phone. By using it sparingly I can find any information I need in seconds. It is really important for me since you don't always understand what you are learning in class, but with my phone I do,” says student Jose Rodriguez.
Additionally, some students such as Matthew Campos and Joshua Ramos commented on how listening to music on their phones helps them with classwork.
"The benefit of having a phone is class, it's another device," Ramos said. "For example, if I have my slides open on an iPad, I could use my phone to research quickly. I can also listen to music on my phone while working on assignments which helps me focus."
Allowing these smartphones in classes also fosters digital literacy, a crucial skill needed in most fields today. By adding these devices into our learning environment, students develop the ability to navigate digital information and how to use technology responsibly and critically.
Doing so prepares students for their future careers and empowers them to be responsible digital citizens who can distinguish between credible and unreliable information.
While some would say that phones should not find their way into our classes because of addiction or bullying through these devices, the good does outweigh the bad in this situation. By teaching our students how to use technology and what is wrong from right, we are stepping closer to a better future.
“I don't mind my students having their phones in class, as long as we don’t have any tests or quizzes. Their boss won't take their phones away from them when they get their first jobs; they have to learn,” says psychology teacher Daniela Rodriguez.
The debate over the role of phones in the classroom is a relevant one today, reflecting the challenges and opportunities presented by a new age of technology. While the concerns about distraction and abuse of these devices are valid, the potential for smartphones to enhance education, foster digital literacy and prepare students for the realities of the modern world cannot be ignored.
Instead of an immediate ban, a balanced approach that combines technology with responsible usage guidelines may be the key to exploiting the full potential of educational tools while minimizing distractions.
As students and educators continue to debate this issue, one thing is clear:" smartphones are here to stay and we must learn how to make the most of them in the search for knowledge and growth.
Do you support phones in classrooms?
Yes
No
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