Could a school phone policy be the key to improving students’ focus and engagement? Over the years, John Dewey students constantly have their phones out during class time. This not only affects the students’ grades, but also affects school’s graduation rates. However, some argue that phones are essential learning tools.
As more students in John Dewey High School focus on their phones instead of their lessons, schools are rethinking their phone policies. Should phones be banned altogether, or can students learn to use them responsibly in school? How the school handles this issue could change how students learn in today’s digital world.
For many teachers, the distraction posed by phones is undeniable and teachers have to constantly tell students to put away their phones. “It’s nearly impossible to hold a student’s attention when they’re distracted by notifications and text messages from their friends,” says Ms.Wegman, a Theater teacher in John Dewey High School. ”I get very upset when students keep on taking their phones out in class, students have to get up from their chair and do warmups and activities.”
Students, on the other hand, often argue that phones are not only a part of their daily lives but also a helpful tool or resources. I get that some students misuse their phones, but I use mine to check assignments and look up information.” says Vladyslav Buchyna, a senior in John Dewey High School. ” Imposing a phone policy is unfair for students who use them for learning.”
John Dewey High School has taken a firm stance on the issue. Teachers are encouraged to confiscate students’ phones when they become a distraction to the lesson.” I have to confiscate a lot of phones everyday, ” says Ms.Wegman. “ This started to become a problem because it will delay my lesson and affect their participation grade which is 25% of their grade.
Many students argue that banning phones is just not the solution. Instead, they suggest that schools should focus on teaching students how to use technology responsibly. “Phones aren’t going away anytime soon.” says Vladyslav Buchyna. “Teachers should incorporate technology into their lessons.”
Some teachers believe that it is part of their job to prepare students for the real world, where they will need to navigate through this internet world. “It’s students’ responsibility to use the phones wisely”, says Mr. Lerner, a Law teacher in John Dewey High School.” My lessons are in the Google Classroom, so I expect my students to use the phones for learning purposes.”
As the debate continues, schools will likely need to think of different strategies to find what works best for their students. One thing the school has to accept is that smartphones are here to stay. Teachers, students, and parents will need to work together to find a solution that supports learning while acknowledging the role of technology in modern life.
