Cellphones have evolved in the past decade from comparatively crude communication devices little better than walkie-talkies to miniature computers more powerful than the machines that put two men on the moon in 1969. With great power, however, comes great responsibility. While schools that historically banned the devices experiment with classroom use, certain critics claim that the disadvantages outweigh the benefits.
This month, we’ll take a look at some of the arguments in favor of allowing students to use their personal cellphones during school hours.
Immediate Access
Many schools whose students regularly use cellphones for classwork do so to help students access information and resources more quickly than they could otherwise. Rather than trekking to a computer lab or asking a librarian for assistance, general knowledge can be found via the Internet on the school’s wireless system. Classroom discussions and projects flow more easily and with fewer interruptions.
Familiarity With Device
Schools that encourage, rather than ban, cellphone use during school hours say that the students’ familiarity with their personal devices allows for greater flexibility and technology integration into the general classroom curriculum. Instead of wasting time setting up a profile on an unknown device and learning its controls, students can dive more quickly into useful learning applications directly on their personal phones.
Direct Lines of Communication
These days, many students seem attached at the hip to their devices—cellphones especially—making communication practically instantaneous. By letting students keep their cellphones instead of stashing them in lockers or cars, parents and coaches can keep students in the loop about schedule changes, emergencies, and other important notifications without last-minute panic.
“Pick Your Battles”
The ubiquitous nature of cellphones means that students are simply accustomed to using the device as a part of everyday life. If your school community is generally respectful about its use (and admitted potential for interruption), it may be wise to allow widespread use, dealing with infractions and abuse on a case-by-case basis, rather than banning them altogether.
Increased Responsibility
By holding students responsible for their time and use of the devices, relaxed cellphone regulations present educators with a teachable moment. Indeed, cellphones open the door for discussions about time management, online etiquette, and cyber bullying—all skills they’ll have to use outside the relatively sheltered walls of the classroom.
How has your school dealt with cellphones? If you allow students to use cellphones, have you found this to be beneficial? We’d love to hear your stories in the comments below!
If you’re looking to further integrate technology into your curriculum but don’t know where to begin, join us at ISM’s Summer Institute for ourTrain Your Faculty in Blended Learning workshop. Your faculty team will learn what technology makes sense for your school, how to move from online instruction to brick-and-mortar instruction (and back again), and the resources necessary to overcome potential roadblocks. Special team pricing available, so call 302-656-4944 to register!
Additional ISM resources:
ISM Monthly Update for Business Officers Vol. 13 No. 6 Practical Points of a BYOD Program
ISM Monthly Update for Division Heads Vol. 12 No. 3 Technology in the Classroom at St. Margaret's
Additional ISM resources for Gold Consortium members:
I&P Vol. 28 No. 8 Technology and Your Faculty's Professional Development
I&P Vol. 27 No. 16 Keep Ergonomics in Mind When Integrating Classroom Technology
