In a bid to create more conducive learning environments, schools across the United States are banning smartphones from classrooms as the new academic year begins. In response, to the increasing issue of distractions and cyberbullying eight states have introduced regulations or policies that limit student cellphone usage during school hours.
The Rise of Smartphone Bans
A recent article, from The New York Times revealed that 70% of high school teachers consider student phone distraction an issue. To address this concern states such, as Indiana, Louisiana and South Carolina have implemented regulations. Leading the initiative was Florida, which passed a law year requiring schools to ban personal electronic devices during instructional periods. Some schools are going even further, banning smartphones throughout the entire school day.
Implementing the Bans
To implement these rules schools are using approaches. Some ask students to keep their smartphones, in lockers or special holders during lessons while others use “phone jail” cabinets to take away devices from those who break the rules. For example Orange County Public Schools, in Orlando has prohibited the use of smartphones during school hours.
Support and Opposition
The initiative to start banning smartphones has garnered support from many educators who believe it will foster more focused learning environments. On the side there are opposing views, to the bans well. According to a study conducted by the National Parents Union 70% of parents favor restrictions on phones in classrooms. However more than half of them feel that students should have some leeway to use their phones during times in the day such as lunch or recess.
Critics argue that implementing a ban, on smartphones could put students at a disadvantage especially those who have part time jobs or family responsibilities after school hours. Additionally some students rely on their devices for reasons like capturing assignments or jotting down notes.
The Broader Movement
Despite these worries the movement, toward schools without phones is becoming more popular. Leaders in Virginia, California and New York have shown backing for actions, in their states. The push for banning smartphones in classrooms is part of a broader movement to address the growing influence of technology on young minds.
Limitations and Alternatives
The New York Times points out that enforcing bans, on smartphones in classrooms might not be entirely effective due to the presence of technologies, like school provided laptops and tablets which students frequently use and can also lead to distractions. Some argue that rather than outright banning smartphones, schools should focus on teaching responsible technology use and digital citizenship.
As more states and schools embrace the idea of banning smartphones in classrooms, it remains to be seen how effective these measures will be in the long run. While striving to establish learning environments that’re more targeted is commendable striking an equilibrium, between utilizing technology for educational objectives and reducing distractions will remain a persistent hurdle, for both educators and policymakers.
