The rise of Smart Phones is undeniably a phenomenon, which continues to transform how we work, communicate, and play in the 21st century. Like the Internet before it, people across the globe are migrating to this technology at backbreaking speeds. We are also seeing these handheld devices being used in classrooms as science probes, photo editors, data entry tools, and of course for text/audio communications. In watching these feats of technological prowess, one cannot help but awe as we watch our motivated youth learning through these technologies. Additionally, there is no question that within 5-10 years the desktop computer will be obsolete and its users who cling to this relic from the past will be deemed the dinosaurs of technology. With this in mind, one would think supporting smart phone usage in the school system is a no brainer.
To this I say, “Not so fast!” In adapting any new technology (and even not so new technology) for classroom use, one must consider the following factors; educational benefits, risks, and child safety. Let us start by examining the last factor. According to recent surveys, 41% of children have been threatened via their smart phone. Even worse, smart phones along with its texting features are the preferred devices of teenage gangs. Subsequently, smart phones are being utilized to cheat in the classroom and to record/post inappropriate information about teachers. Smart phones are also being used by people who;
· Pretend they are other people online to trick others
· Spread lies and rumors about victims
· Trick people into revealing personal information
· Send or forward mean text messages
· Post pictures of victims without their consent
So does this mean smart phones should be banned? After all smart phones are also being used to;
· Text-missed assignments to classmates that are absent
· Perform math functions as the new math curricula encourages the use of a calculator for problem-solving
· Take pictures of notes from the board
Many teenagers have also been known to use their smart phones in various situations that helped protect their safety. Additionally, a quick scan of the Innovative Educator web site reveals a myriad of effective practices already being used in which smart phone technology is being harnessed to empower and teach students. Never the less, every safety study on smart phone technology has reported the rise of cyber-bullying and other negative activities. Can we as educators ignore this looming danger? Does the cited danger validate a ban on smart phones within our school system? Is there a way to make smart phone use safer and acceptable in the school environment? For example, can an Acceptable User Policy help the situation? These are not easy questions to answer. Having said that, here are a few more thoughts on this perplexing matter.
For the time being those who are pro smart phone and those who do not support its use will stick with their position and will not stray from their point of view. However, regardless of one’s standpoint, it is clear that no child should be allowed to use a smart phone within a school setting without signing an Acceptable User Policy. The Acceptable User Policy should require students to attend a minimum of 2 smart phone safety seminars in which they learn about lurking dangers and how to handle those situations. Additionally, an Acceptable User Policy should require students to;
· Register their smart phone with the local law enforcement.
· Understand that they can only send appropriate text, email, or picture messages.
· Understand that they should not give their address or other personal information on a phone call, text, or email to people they do not know, or if others can hear them.
· Understand that they should never respond to an email, text, picture, or voice message from someone they don’t know.
· Agree that they will inform an adult they trust if they receive anything on their phone—a call, a text message, an e-mail, a picture, or voicemail message—that makes them uncomfortable.
· Delineate which applications and web sites are appropriate for school use.
Finally, the use of Smart Phones is an earned privilege with the understanding that students will lose their device and other privileges if they violate any of the above rules.
If a school or district promotes an anti smart phone policy, the topic of Cyber Bullying should still be addressed at least twice a year. After all, Cyber Bullying is a problem that is not limited to smart phones. This is evident as a recent survey conducted by the National Crime Prevention Council reported that 43% of middle school students;
· received an e-mail or an instant message that made them upset
· had something posted on a social networking site that made them upset
· had been made fun of in a chat room
· had something posted on a Web site that made them upset
· had something posted online that they did not want others to see
· were afraid to go on the computer
Subsequently, I urge all schools and districts to review their technology policy and examine if their plan adequately addresses the rise of Cyber Bullying and make the appropriate adaptations if needed. For more information visit; http://www.stopcyberbullying.org/ and http://www.ncpc.org/cyberbullying.
209 comments:
1 – 200 of 209 Newer› Newest»Smart Phones should not be banned but they should be used sparingly. Before you can infuse a smart phone into your curriculum, you have to get parents on board with your idea. Its not totally a bad idea but you need a plan. You can't just say take out your phones and respond to this literary piece. It is euphoric to want to use the phones for good with all the cyber bullying going on but we a little more structure.
I am in agreement with this post. It is inevitable that many children that have a cell phone are going to have a smart phone. There are countless pros to the children having this technology at the palm of there hands. Cyber bullying is a growing epidemic. I agree that the children should not be permitted to use the smart phones in school settings. I also agree that all children of a certain age should be required to attend a mandatory workshop that focuses on safety tips while using the smart phone.
Marlon Campbell
As with most, if not all, technologies, they are great for educational purposes. In most cases, cell phones are not allowed in school. However, students who bring them in, do find time to use them. Texting one another during the day, calling people, and surfing the web if available on their phone. So, I am not too sure if it is such a great idea to allow students to use their phones for educational purposes. If phones are allowed in school to aid them in classes also opens the door for free play. When one should pay attention they may be playing with their phone. Although, I think it may cause some issues (mainly using phones only when instructed) I think that it could be beneficial. Students should be educated how to use a smart phone and understand that cyber bullying is unacceptable. At the end of the day, most students have them and carry them, so why not put it to use for school.
As with all technology, there is always a positive and negative side. Teachers, educators and parents should keep in mind that smart phones could be of great help in different situations. Instead of trying to ban them, educators, parents, and administrators should work together to provide students with the knowledge and safely information they need to be safe and act responsibly in school and at home. G. Torres
I'm unsure about how I feel about letting students use smartphones in school. Although they could be used for positive reasons, I think the negative outweighs the positive here. Yes the students could: Text-missed assignments to classmates that are absent, perform math functions as the new math curricula encourages the use of a calculator for problem-solving and take pictures of notes from the board. What comes along with this is, students texting in class, being on websites that are off-task, which is really inevitable with most children and even adults. Also, not all children have cell phones, the use is absolutely growing, but you can not assume that all children could have a smartphone for classroom use. I'm sure there is a way to incorporate them into a school's curriculum, but it needs to be very thoughtfully planned out, considering you can not monitor 30+ children all at once that all are using a cell phone in your class.
Kimberly Braga
I really enjoyed reading this post. I like how it discussed both the pros and cons of the use of smartphone in the classroom. I do believe that there are quite a few benefits for using these devices in educational settings. If smartphones were to be used for educational purposes, I think we would need to take many precautions to be sure that they were being used for the right reasons. Issues such as cyber bullying would need to be addressed before students began using these devices in school. I also think special times would need to be set aside during the school day where students were allowed to use these phones with close supervision so children do not take advantage of this opportunity.
Christina Ferrara
I am not sure where I stand on this matter exactly. On one hand, the use of smart phones among children will occur regardless of what the school policy is on them. Schools do not normally allow the use of cell phones in class, yet tons of students find a way to sneak around those rules and text or communicate throughout the school day. However, on the flip side, the benefits of these technological devices are endless. There are a lot of ways to bring the world to students fingertips by incorporating the use of smart phones into the curriculum...the possibilities could become endless. I guess based on my previous comment, if the children are going to have them in school regardless, why not try and use them in a beneficial way. With that, an Acceptable User Policy in addition to Cyber Bullying workshops must be in place. Moreover, keeping track of all students and the way in which they work on these phones would be extremely difficult. Not to mention, we cant expect all students to have access to these devices so allowing them in schools creates unfairness among peers. Ultimately, I am still unsure of where I stand on the issue and I feel that it will be in debate for some time.
Courtney Weiner
I have mixed feelings on banning phones in school. I don't feel like smart phones/cellphones should be banned completely but there needs to be rules set if they are allowed in school. Obviously teachers and administrators would have to worry a lot more if they are allowed in school but having them being banned doesn't stop the students from bringing them. There are pros and cons and I am a little torn on this topic, thinking about everything that can go wrong if students would have phones in the classroom. On the other hand, there might be positive things to having phones.
Nancy Mandarino
It is really interesting to read, “that within 5-10 years the desktop computer will be obsolete.” Especially as someone who is really behind in embracing technological advances and who does not own a Smart Phone.
I think that the Acceptable User Policy is a great way to try to make using Smart Phones safer for the students. I think having the students attend safety seminars is good. It’s also a good idea to teach them what is appropriate to text and what they should be on the look out in terms of text that they receive in order to protect themselves.
I’m glad that Prof. Gutnicki discusses cyber bullying. I recently saw a movie about this on ABC Family. It was very unfortunate what the student in the movie had to suffer. However, the movie also pointed out the lack of laws available to properly punish the perpetrators.
Like with many other things there are pros and cons that are attached to allowing cell phones in school. Yes students are bringing them into schools anyway but are we saying if you can't beat them then join them?
Personally I do not know where I stand on the issue but I do know that cell phones are distracting. Even as a college student who is allowed to bring and use her cell phone in school I am often so wrapped up in checking my text messages, emails, and BBMs that I am so far removed from the lesson being taught.
Monitoring students and their cell phone usage is a good idea but is a job within itself. Also not all students have a smartphone, would those students be excluded from smartphone activities?
Whether or not cell phones are allowed in schools I believe that students would benefit from cyberbullying workshops. Educating them on the dangers of cyberbullying can teach them just how dangerous it is and hopefully make a change for the better.
Nitzeida George
I don’t think that Smart phones should be banned completely. Phones can be used for safety purposes. However, I don’t think that Smart phones should be encouraged. I feel that it would do more harm than good. It would be more of a distraction, rather than a teaching tool. It’s already hard enough keeping the students’ attention through a whole period! If they walked around with Smart phones, they would be texting one another all day and never get off Facebook! Cyber bullying would be more prevalent, with kids being able to take pictures of one another and posting it right away. I think banning Smart phones is a good idea, at least for now...
-Alla Priemyshev
I think that it is a great idea to use an Acceptable User Policy for secondary aged students. This method would make students feel that they are trusted and respected. If children use smart phone wisely, they will get benefits from current technology. Practicing both of the Acceptable User Policy and violation rules will be a positive experience for everyone. Keiko Shari
Smartphones can be used both in a positive and negative manner, as you stated in your post. However, would I suggest it be used in the classroom or within a school setting? No. While there are many benefits of using it as an educational tool, with all the extra applications, it will also serve as a distraction to students who are already struggling in a given topic. Most teachers know that our strugglers are the ones to get most easily distracted and to prevent that, we want to keep away as many distractions as possible.
If we use it as an earned privelege, as suggested, we probably can find an effective way of avoiding the distraction issue mentioned above. But it would need great monitoring and oversight from the educators in the building.
Ayesha
The question : "Should smart phones be banned in schools?" causes a lot of argues , and I think the answer would be never founded. Smart phones are useful to students to stay in touch with their parents throughout the day or for after school, but they are a major distraction in the classroom and shouldn't be used.
But from another site , smart phones are a distraction. Students will only use them to play games, listen to music, or surf the web. Instead, students should pay attention to their teachers and their lessons. So, probably just time would find the answer, joist time would show which opinion is right !
I think the use of smart phones should be banned in schools! I believe children should be allowed to carry them to and from school in their bookbags but should not be allowed to take them out during school hours. There should be no reason why a child needs to use their phone during school hours. Parents have the school phones to get a hold of their children in case of emergencies. I think allowing children to keep their phone on them could possibly get them into trouble in more then 1 way. It gives them the option to cheat if they feel their under pressure during a test as well as their device could be stolen while on the grounds and then parents may think it's the schools responsibility to replace. Yes I do believe many people/students use their phone for HW, note taking and etc. but phones in general I believe are becoming the ruination of this generation and has to be ended somewhere.
On the issue of having smart phones in the classroom it can be a good thing and a bad thing. I for one oppose having smart phones in the classroom because it can be a big distraction during instructional time. It can only work if the school takes the phone at the beginning of the day and return it towards the ending of the school day.
At present time the mayor wants to allow cell phones in the schools. He believes it is a "safety issue" so parents can keep track of their kids headed to and from school. Yes, I agree to a certain extent but other measurements has to be accounted for and taken into consideration.This will be an on going controversy.
Rochelle
This post raises a concern on our generation and blames it on smartphones. Before there were even smart phones there were still students spreading rumors, not paying attention to the teacher, ETC. Therefore, we could not blame it on smart phones. However, it is obviously a distraction that's why I think it is only appropriate to be used during lunch time when the student has their brake. Why aren't kids allowed to use smartphones, look at us we use it whenever we need to. Perhaps there parents or relatives are calling them about something important.
I think that smart phones should not be banned. However, parents and school officials need to work together to create a policy that allows students to have phones but make sure they are not used in class or during a lesson. Parents need to be involved in monitoring phone usage and cyber bullying.
EDSE 650 Samantha Mauri
This blog post really showed both sides of this topic. I personally do not think smart phones should be used in school. I feel that the risk factor is way to high and there are too many ways that they can be used inappropriately. I feel that they would be more of a distraction than a tool to engage the students with.
Geihan Hussein EDSE 650
Smart Phones should not be banned but used appropriately. I agree that students have phones for safety issues. I do not think they need a smart phone any cell phone is good enough. Students now use smart phones for internet, texting, etc. I do not believe that they should use in classrooms. I Believe that during school phones should be away unless it is an emergency. Parents give their children cell phones so the can track their child and to make sure they are in school safely. Students do take advantage and break the rules which than becomes an issue.
Although cell phones can be a major problem in schools, I fell they would be a huge asset to the advancement in technology in schools. The fact that literally everything can be done on a smart phone can be very useful to students. The things that can be done on the smart phone can be beneficial for teachers as well. If schools are trying to bring as much technology there is no reason a smart phone should be excluded. I think it would be important to have things monitored like they already do in schools.
Although it is evident that a student is going to use their cellphone in class whether the school accepts it or not, I do not feel they should be permitted in the class. I agree that they can be useful in certain aspects, but I feel that saying a student is allowed to use their cellphone is just asking for trouble. Let's be serious, students are not only going to use that cellphone for school purposes, they are going to be texting in class, sending pictures to one another, and searching the website which includes Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. Therefore, the negative outweighs the positive in this case and cellphones should NOT be permitted in the classroom for students AND for teachers as well.
JamieLynn Vaccaro EDSE 650
Smart phones should not be in the classroom for "learning" purposes. Even if monitored, children will find, yet another way to be distracted. I would use the smart phone as a reward, however I would not let it be used to take notes, follow the lesson, or engage in a task. We have to remember that we are "role models" for our students. What example will be setting if we constantly and consistently depend on technology? Our students and children will learn that being dependent on technology is "okay." We have to be held accountable for our independence.
Danielle Balestrino
As with many other issues, smart phones can have benefits as well as risks. Let me start by agreeing with you that there are many risks to having smart phones in schools. Besides the fact that students are using them to cheat on exams, they are a danger to society. When walking down the streets, kids are always looking down at the floor instead of paying attention to their surroundings. Students are teasing each other over social media, posting unnecessary pictures, spreading rumors, and going on inappropriate websites. On top of this, having a smart by their side 24/7 allows them to research any topic, rather than using their brains, studying, and thinking. Students no longer feel the need to learn because smart phones allow you to look up anything at any time. On the other hand, smart phones do have many educational benefits. They can be used for research, finding articles, taking notes, etc. In addition, they provide assistive technology for students who need extra support. For this reason, I find it hard to say that they should ban smart phones in school but they should definitely limit the use of them and monitor them as much as possible to decrease the risk factors.
Maia Matcharashvili EDSE 650
I strongly believe that using smartphones should not be banned. Educational process could benefit out of using smartphones. Smartphones can be incorporated thoughtfully in the classroom. Of cause it should be controlled by teacher, students love to talk on the phones, using smartphones should be permitted at school only for educational purposes.
Rodney Knight, EDSE 650
It's truly amazing how far we have come as an society in terms of technology, with that being said I believe that we have to continue pressing forward with advance technology, of course there are pro's and con's in everything, but most in importantly we have to safe guard our children. I agree with the use of smart phones being used in the class along with realistic regulations.
Gina Angelo EDSE 650
Should smart phones be banned from schools? In my opinion, students in public schools today are exposed to many technological advances. The use of smart phones seems to be an often ignored issue. I believe that smart phones offer students increased communication abilities. They provide students with a tool for safety and parent contact but should be used appropriately during school hours. Many public school leaders feel that cell phones are a severe distraction when it comes to the education process. Whether students are talking in the hallways, on the phone in the restrooms, or texting during class, they are proving to be a very big distraction. School leaders are trying to improve student performance by enforcing very strict policies regarding smart phones.
Medita EDSE 650
Smart phones are relative in the 21st century. It is a great device that enhances learning, once it is utilized in the correct way. It is an educational tool that helps teachers and students in the classroom.
However, it is the responsibility of those in authority to regulate how and when these phones are used based on the environment (school).
As mentioned in the article, students should be made aware of the negative effects of the smart phones. Therefore, safety seminars are important to assist them with cyberbullying.
Finally, smart phones should not be banned, but monitored correctly so that students do not lose their focus and become distracted.
Nicholas Chao EDSE 650
In regards to using smartphones in school, I believe they should be allowed in the facility, but their use should be limited during school hours. I believe that phones can be utilized in a beneficial and educational way, but it isn't necessary. From my personal high school experience, phones were not allowed in the school altogether. The positive of this was that students did not have to deal with distractions. I can name a few classes where my phone would come in handy to help me get through the class. As a result of not having my phone, it allowed me to stay focused throughout the day. With smart phones, students are able to play games, access social media sites as well as other sites. With all these resources at your hand, it can potentially be detrimental to ones learning process. The negative aspect of not having a phone is that students will not be able to communicate with any family members, if need be. As stated before, I believe that students should be allowed to carry their phones to school, but should not use it in the classroom.
Rodney Knight EDSE 650,
I agree that the future will be dominated by handheld devices that will be eventually used in the classrooms. So, we have to prepare for the inevitable as soon as possible. It's very important that policy makers embrace this reality. I say, the sooner the better. Although their are risk and child safety issues that need to be addressed, just like everything else rules and regulations have to be in place to control the dangers of the use of Smart phones. Overall, we have to get ready for the future.
Cell phones in schools are a hotly debated topic. There is no right answer to this question. Smartphones can be a huge distraction in the classroom. Students can use these phones in a negative way in the classroom. Some students may use these devices to cheat on test. Students can also become a victim when having these very expensive phones in school. On the other hand, students can use these phones to gain access to the internet which will enhance the students learning while working in the classroom. Students can use these phones to find answers to the questions they need to finish their work. If a student is responsible and they know the right way to use their phones in school, phones can be a resourceful tool in the classroom.
It’s hard to believe that arguments for and against the use of smartphones in the classroom still occur, but they do! Smartphones are a multi-purpose technology. While my mathematical needs don’t compare to students in a maths class, I have to admit that I've not used a calculator for years. Why should I when it is so simple to use the calculator on my smartphone? The enormous range of smartphone apps steadily available, provide a functionality that could never have been dreamed of just a few short years ago. Apart from any other kind of argument, smartphones are just one of the amazing digital technologies of the 21st Century and – they are here to stay. We are kidding ourselves if we consider that the abuse of technology and/or the inappropriate use of any technology by students is restricted to smartphones. One of the many roles of teachers and our classrooms is to teach appropriate use of technologies.
Jaclyn Boyles
MONDAY NIGHT CLASS
I enjoyed reading this article,as we all are aware of smart phones within the school setting is always a debate.I believe they can be used for many great aspects. The down side of this is many students abuse the usage of such devices. They can be such a distraction. I dont think they should be banned 100% , I beleive the time and when they are allowed needs to be closely monitored.
I believe that smart phones should be used strictly outside the classroom unless the teacher tells the students that there is something he/or she wants the student to do in the class. Teachers shouldn't have to worry that everything they do or say will be recorded.
Last year my children received unwanted messages through their phones. They spoke to the Dean of their grade about the messages. It was resolved in school and there were no further incidents. My children also received in school training about not accepting texts from strangers. One can only hope that they will follow that training. We have also discussed this topic together.
The phones are a great way to keep in touch with your children when they commute to school. We can't do without them anymore.
L. Fuld
Cali Loukas EdSE 650
I am not in an agreement with smart phones being used in school. I believe they can and will be a huge distraction in the classroom. Yes it is important for children to have phones in order to be able to contact their parents in case of an emergence, but the phone should be left in their book bags where they belong. I love the idea of parents and/or schools having smart phone safety seminars in order to inform the children of the dangers that come with owning a smart phone.
As a soon to be teacher, I don't think cell phones should be allowed in the classroom. They cause a major distraction to the students in the room. I constantly notice kids checking their phones, texting and looking at social media. It has become a serious issue in our school and causes a major problem for capturing the attention of our students. It becomes very hard to grasp their attention while they have the cell phone at the palm of their hands. While they could be extremely useful in some aspects, I believe it causes more trouble than it does help. It is extremely hard to monitor students while trying to teach your lesson and do everything else that comes along with being a teacher. If we eliminate cell phones from school totally, we won't have to deal with these problems on a daily basis.
My views of cellular phones in the classroom are simple, I do not agree with this idea. They are distracting and can possibly lead to other problems such as class disturbances, cheating on test and now a days a faculty or two ending up on social media because you have been recorded. Nonetheless, cellular phones are great for emergency circumstances. Furthermore, the ban of cellular phones in NYC public schools have just been lifted by our "lovely" mayor of NYC, so my opinion means nothing. Great article though!
In my opinion smart phone should be permitted in schools but should be used wisely. Every smart phone has so many useful apps for education. For example students can record the lecture this option is very helpful for auditory learners, take notes, take pictures of the board , use calculator to solve math problems. On the other hand smart phone can also interrupt kids from studying with options to call and text, therefore school system need to prohibit those options on school premises.
I go back and forth a lot about the idea of letting students use smartphones in school. Although they could be used for positive reasons, I think the negative outweighs the positive. Yes the students could use smart phone for many good reasons, such as, texting missed assignments to classmates that are absent, performing math functions, googling information for research projects, and taking pictures of notes from the board.
However, there are many negative points to letting children bring smart phones to school: students texting in class, being on websites that are off-task, which is really inevitable with most children and even adults. Also, not all children have cell phones so you can not assume that all children could have a smartphone for classroom use. I'm sure there is a way to incorporate them into a school's curriculum, but it needs to be very thoughtfully planned out, considering you can not monitor 30+ children all at once that all are using a cell phone in your class.
Being that I am an early childhood substitute teacher, I do not have to worry about smart phones in my classroom just yet. I do think that children as young as first grade will have smart phones in the near future, whereas when I was growing up, I was able to get my first cell phone when I started 8th grade.
As I think about the use of smartphones in the classroom, fear takes over me. Although technology-based learning is certainly appealing to students of all ages, I feel that smartphone use almost immediately intrigues students to social media. It is most definitely at the forefront of their thinking process. I love using technology in my classroom. This is through the SMARTboard, as well as desktops. Although I see desktops becoming obsolete, I see it as being replaced with an Ipad or tablet, one that has no connection to text messages. Maybe a good idea would be to have students use their “school” emails to send any information. This way they can be monitored by administration at all times! This article has certainly opened my eyes to an issue of the future.
Smartphones in the classroom are dangerous. Not only are they a device to cheat with but students can use the phone to take videos during class time. The phones are also a distraction since social media is such an important part of many peoples lives these days. Smartphones are too distracting and school is a great opportunity for the student's to get a break from their phones. Especially since the minute they leave school everyone has their phone in their hands for the rest of the day.
Smart phones as well as other technological devices have their positive and negative sides.I'm not sure we should ban using of smart phones at school completely. But I know one thing for sure.This is that smart phones and cell phones are really distracting.I know it from my personal experience.When I was a teacher in my country I noticed not one time how my students were playing games or texting messages hiding phones under the desk.They really could't concentrate their attention on the class. I like the idea about an Acceptable User Policy for secondary aged students.Anyway,I think if children will use their phones wisely they can get benefits from it.
Many parents would say that smart phones should not be banned in schools, myself included. The reason for this is because many parents like to have a way to contact their children as they're coming home from school or if they need to call them for something important. However, I also agree that if a parent is going to give their child a phone, there needs to be some sort of parental control, as there should be with all technology. Parents should not just buy their child a phone and let them do whatever they want with it. It is a parent's responsibility to monitor who they are talking to, what they're texting, what apps and sites they are visiting, etc. This can greatly decrease bullying and harassment via smartphones. It is also a school's responsibility to set rules and to follow them. If a school doesn't want their students to text in class, there needs to be consequences such as taking the child's phone away. However, if a student wants to take pictures of their notes or send assignments to an absent classmate, that should be allowed. Banning smartphones isn't going to stop students from sneaking them into the school. It is up to the parents and school officials/teachers to set boundaries and monitor their use.
The debate on should smart phones be banned in schools is a very topical today. In my opinion, smart phones make you happy, and they are good friends. However, I think smart/cell phones should be banned in classroom. It interrupts student's ability to focus on studying. I believe it's better to play with your phone at home.
Wildeen, ED SE 650
Should smart phones be banned from school? Well both parents and students say its for safety and emergency purposes, which I strongly agree with. But I do believe that it would be best for cells phones (including the smart phone) not be banned but must be put away during school hours. In case of emergency parents/guardians can contact the school directly. I have been in several classrooms over the years and from the perspective of both student and educator the cell phone/smart phone has been more disadvantage during the school hours than advantageous. It is a fact that the smart phone can be used as a resources but on average educators can admit that it has been overall used on average as a distraction.
I believe cell phones should be banned in school because it can be a distractions for students. I am grad student and my phone is a total distraction for me. I think there school be a place where students can store their cell phone away. This year they lifted their banned on cell phones in schools.
This was an essay question on the LAST exam. I believe cell phones should be stored away in school and not be allowed in the classrooms because it can be a huge distraction for students and their learning process. It's me I am guilty of checking my emails and texting while in class making sure my son is ok but I am look help and I am lost with what my professor just said. lol
Amanda Cougan
I feel as though smart phones should be banned in the classroom, there is no reason to have them, they are not only a distraction but a means of cheating and causing possible harm to other students such in the form of bullying ect.
Children should be taught without the use of these devices to assure that they are staying on task and receiving the education they deserve.
I believe cell phones have NO place in the classroom. As most people know cell phones were not in the class room when i was in school. I learned everything i needed and had no cell phone to "enhance" my learning experience. I don't think children younger that 10th grade need a cell phone but even beyond that age, the cell phone wont help the learning experience, it serves as a major distraction. Social media, cyber bulling, and children being exposed to everything over the internet, all these factor will never serve as a way to enhance the classroom experience. Even as an adult I have to remind myself to focus on what ever I'm doing and to put my phone away sometimes. too many people are hooked to their phone, myself included.
Smart phones are great! They should not be banned, but they should be used with caution and smartly. Smart phones can be a big help and advantage for children, especially those with special needs. It should not be used in ways where someone else can steal someones identity, or pretend to be someone. It should also be used to the right reasons, and not for inappropriate reasons.
When I was in school there wasn't cell phone/ smart phone to take to school. the student was going to school for an education with out that technology and that the way it should be now.
T.Alvarez EDSE 650
Currently students sign a "Cell Phone Contract" which as far as the upholding of it goes, means absolutely nothing. These contracts are suppose to ensure students don't use cell phones during class time and that they exercise responsibility with their devices. Neither of which seems to be a result for most students in signing the contract. As you mentioned, students should indeed be required to take a seminar that provides students with safety tips but I dont see nor do I expect this to happen in the near future. I think cell phones being allowed in the classroom was a big mistake on behalf of the city.
I agree Smartphones have a lot of positive and negative aspects as mentioned in the article. I don't think banning them is a good idea because they do serve very important functions if used correctly. I think we should focus on continually educating students and adults alike on the use of Smartphones and what is acceptable and unacceptable behavior. We cannot just assume banning them will take care of the problem. As always educating is knowledge.
Cell phones should absolutely be banned in schools. In my school they are the source of constant agitation between students and teachers. It is a constant battle and believe me the teachers are losing. If students were using cell phones for research and classroom related activity I may be more inclined to be lenient but it is my experience that students generally are using their phones to listen to music, access social media, text friends and or take pictures and video of staff and students without their permission. More often then not, this is all happening in the classroom. I am absolutely against phones in school and I think Mayor Deblasio made a mistake when he decided to allow them.
Daniela
I don't think cell phones should be allowed in the classroom. Its a huge distraction. Students are to preoccupied with social media and not paying attention to the lesson at hand. Also they take too much time goofing around taking pictures and videos.
Mariya EDSE 650
There are certainly benefits for using smartphones in schools. However, as this post pointed out, the dangers of using smartphones are definitely more important than the benefits. Students should therefore use their smartphones sparingly and only during emergencies. I agree that there should be a user agreement in schools that all students need to agree to before they use smartphones.
Kevin
I think cellphones should not be banned, but instead a strict policy placed on them instead. lets face it we live in a day and age where constant communication is needed. If cellphones are banned then our students will not be in contact with their loved ones. On the other hand with the use of cellphones it becomes a distraction in the classroom. that is why there should be a safe place for students to leave their phones while they are in school, that way they cannot be distracted by them and they will be able to get them after school to stay in contact with their loved ones.
I think that smart phones should be excluded from the schools activities at all. Cyber bullying and opened personal information in the net are extreme negative sides of the smart phones. However, smart phones are so-called engaging device does not really support the academic achievements. On the contrary, smart phones take away enormous amount of free time and bring a huge destructive potential. Students engage themselves in picture making, writing, commenting, chatting, etc. What could they do instead? They might do many interesting things such as reading a book, drawing, walking outside, having a real conversation with peer, parents, relatives.
I do agree with the article. If children are going to use it to benefit from it, there should be rules and consequences put in place.
Personally, I would prefer that my children leave their phones at home because it is very difficult for one teacher to supervise every child in the classroom.
Susana C.
650
Quot Faih Lei Cheng EDSE 650
The spread of the printing press was also considered the spread of lies and treacheries by some religious institutions in Europe about six centuries ago. Books became cheap and thus knowledge became very easy to access. The Spread of Printing Press changed Europeans' perspectives toward religion, humanities and the world. Similarly, the introduction of smartphones can also be a blessing rather a curse to mankind. Think about how accessible are the knowledge and information. I used to make numerous of trips to my college libraries in order to write my paper and now I can just find a cafe with Wifi to finish my paper. I think at least teacher should allow to use smartphone in the class to access knowledge.
I feel as though smart phones may not be good for class, I don't think they should be banned in the classroom. I think cellphones should maybe stay in a backpack or stay on silent but they shouldn't be banned. I feel that students in school should really have no reason to use their phones during class, because it does not support or help them learn anything. I feel that when students look up things on their cellphones they are taking the easy way out. However I know in college the professor asks students to look up things on their phones.
Nelya Yarovaya, ED SE 650
I find myself having conflicting feelings in regards to this issue; however ultimately I do not feel smart phones should be formally allowed and used in the classroom. It is true that although smart phones are not allowed in schools or are not allowed to be used during class time many students sneak around these rules and find ways to use their smart phones. It is also true that smart phones would have many benefits for students, they would be able to text classmates in regards to class work, as well as use their phones for assistance in class whether performing a math function or doing research, be able to take pictures of class activities, and many other educational benefits. However I feel there would be more negatives. It would be very difficult to monitor students’ usage of smart phone. It would be inevitable that students would use their smart phones for texting, web browsing, and playing games during class time which is not for educational purposes and this would prevent them from learning as well as distract others. Furthermore, I predict that this would increase cyber bullying as students would have immediate access to social media and communication mediums within the school where most of their interactions with their peers take place. Also, not every child may have a smart phone. However, although I do not think smart phone usage should be allowed in schools I believe that the school should incorporate usage of this technology into the curriculum on the part of the school not the students as well as conduct seminars to teach students how to properly and safely use their smart phones outside of the school as well.
Smart phones should be banned from schools. Phones can be very distracting to both the student and teacher. With smart phones in the classroom, students can stray away from the task at hand. Also, they might not be using the smart phone in a positive way. For example, if the assignment is to use the smart phone to find articles on a certain topic, who is to say the student is actually doing that and not on social media. Social media Smart phones can be helpful, however there are to many temptations, therefor I would band call phones in the classroom.
Stavroula Theodoratos
EDSE 650
There is no doubt that smart phones has risen in a positive light over the past decade. They are getting more and more popular each year as new features or apps are being made so often. Smart phones has its good and bad uses but such is life. I think children should be taught the negative things that can happen with such a device. Fortunately, there are so many positive aspects in owning an iPhone. I do not think smart phone should be banned from schools because I believe children should have a chance and if they are not following the rules then it should be consequences which is get it taken away from them as they did when I was in school for the students who didn't listen.
I believe for personal and safety precautions, yes they may be allowed in schools. Banned is a strong word. However, Ive attended many college classes where people were texting behind a handbag or a backpack which is ridiculous. It's disrespectful and distracting to others especially the professors. So perhaps there should be an allowance of them in schools but with a regulation of them.
I agree that smart phones shouldn't be used at school time. Using of them is not only distraction from studying but could be dangerous. Cyberbullying is a serious problem that can lead to dramatic outcome for the victims of it. Children should be taught about safety to use smartphones and negative impacts of using them at school.
Smart phones can be a danger in the classroom but it can also be helpful. Truthfully, there are other ways that children can learn without using a smartphone. If a student has it out in class, he will probably misuse it and yes, he might get help from it, but ultimately, they will not be able to control themselves to use it for things other than school. if it is not prohibited to use in the classroom, there definitely needs to be some type of control and monitoring or a stop on things not related to school.
Frieda Antebi
Marcela Diaz
EdSE 650
Nowadays we live in a very technological world where everybody is surrounded by iPads, and smart phones, that why as new teacher we have to realize that it will be really hard to keep the students away from technology. I think that students should being allowed to use iPhone in school specially when they are little, because they might be exposed to different websites that are not age appropriate for them. I also think that the use of iPhones are very distractive and students will not only have access to the internet but also to texting and to social media. However, teachers can provide students with a laptops or iPads where teacher can have more control over the students and the things that they do online.
For someone who has used my smartphone to help with homework or classwork when I was behind, I cant agree with banning them from school, although I do agree that there are many reasons why this could become an issue for students who may become distracted with this device or end up texting in class all day. I believe that there can be a middle ground to what is acceptable and what is not when it comes to using devices in class. If we are black and white about the situation, we may not be able to benefit from putting these devices to use for a good cause.
C. Mark EDSE 650
I think that it is important for children to be able to carry their cell phones with them to school but there should be strict restrictions on what is and isn't allowed. In my high school, my teachers took our cell phones during the day and gave them back at the end. they are a distraction. I am an adult and have trouble not looking at my phone during class so imagine how difficult it must be for teenagers and pre-teens.
EDSE 650 MONDAY
The phone polices depend on the school. Unfortunately, there are schools in NYC that use metal detectors for safety reasons, and they don't allow phones at all. Some schools for gifted and talanted have students that travel from far away, and they need cell phones for safety reasons(to connect their parents on the way to school and back). Some schools use cell phones during the lesson. I think, there should not be a general rule for that. It depends on the school polices and the level of maturity of students. Anyway, the teacher should be responsible of teaching the students the rules of Internet safety.
I think smartphones are important with regulations sometimes students just want for playing but they said is for an "emergency". We have to regulate the use of them.
While technology is on the rise and more and more students have access to smart phones I still believe its use should be limited in schools if used at all. Sure they can be carried for emergency purposes however I don't see any use for them in the classroom. The more important issue would be getting better technology in the class so students can experience all the benefits of modern technology, in a controlled way that can not be done with the use of personal devices. Teachers can use apps, or online supports that students can use from their personal devices at home and this should be utilized. However, I still don't see a place for a personal smart phone in a well equipped classroom.
Tom Bishop -EDSE 650
Veronika Blank EDSE 650
I am a little in between on this issue. I do believe smart phones can be very handy for students on their way to school, from school, and possibly during math tests. On the other hand, I believe smart phones can be an extreme distraction as well as a form a bullying that can occur inside the school building. I do not see a problem for schools to allow children to bring in their cellphones in case there is an emergency after school or they need it to assist them in class, but I do not think cellphones should be allowed out anytime, and during classroom instruction. Students can send each other answers to tests, take inappropriate pictures, or visit inappropriate websites when inside the school building. All students should receive proper instruction how to safely use a smartphone, and also only be permitted during certain situations throughout their school day, ex. take a photo of notes for an absent classmate, use it as a calculator, or use it in case of an emergency.
Smart phones are here to stay. I don't think they should be banned completely in school but they do need to be monitored very carefully. Also, in school the smartphones should only be used in class under a teacher's direction. They should not be allowed to be used all day long where bullying or other trouble may occur. Even at home parents need to monitor their children with the use of smartphones and how they are utilizing their phones. There's always pros and cons to everything.
Kellyann Doran EDSE 650
Smart phones are very useful throughout the day. There are some cons to having smart phones inside the classroom. They can be used to cheat, post inappropriate information and bully other students. These are all major factors we need to worry about. Although there are these risks to smart phones in the classroom, I still believe they should be used inside the classroom.
-Brittany E.
EdSE 650
G.Willis
I believe students should be able to use their smart phones in the classroom. It used to be that the only place students were able to access technology was in the classroom, now it is the other way around. Students always have the devices and can learn so much from them. The public schools all have wifi and there is no reason that the teachers should not be able to use these devices to further the students' learning. The devices need to be used appropriately and under supervision of the adults.
I feel smartphones should be banned in the classroom. Now you can find anything on the internet and allowing students to carry and use their cell phones in school allows them access everything at the touch of a button. Now there are apple watches and children can access information that way as well.It will be extremely easy for students to cheat on exams and classwork. I think it is fine for students to have their phones in their bookbags off for the school day and then turn them on after school. In case of an emergency their parents know exactly where they are so they can call the school. Cell phones are extremely distracting.
Dana T
Mon night class
S. Willis EdSE 650
I am pro smart phone use in the classroom. I believe it should be used throughout the educational day, but sparingly. Technology is of great benefit to education. I believe in the user agreement being signed and certain behaviors being expected of the students. I also find the wifi useful in the NYC DOE because it blocks inappropriate websites and gives access to educational ones. This will all benefit the students as well as the teachers.
I feel that Smart Phones should not be used in the school setting. Even though I teach Pre-School and obviously the children do not carry cell phones the teachers are not allowed to carry any type of phone in their possession. If we go out on trips we are allowed to carry our phones in case of an emergency. I believe that it distracts the students and can cause stealing and or jealousy among the students.
EDSE 650 Robyn Balsam
This is an excellent article as it portrays both the positive and negative aspects of smartphones. I believe that if someone wants to do something bad, he or she will use any means to accomplish this. Teenagers especially use many forms of technology for bad things. While smartphones can cause great damage, I think it is the individual and the choices he or she makes which will ultimately lead to good or bad actions. What I mean by this is that if a child does not have a smartphone but wants to ridicule his or her classmate online-this child will find a way to do that! I think there should be seminars and workshops for teenagers on bullying and other negativity that goes on online. We should not try to ban phones-we should go and try to fix the root of the problem.
-Chana Tabi
I thoroughly enjoyed the article. The article put some great points into perspective. The world today is filled with technology. Technology has become the center of the world we live in. Keeping students away from smartphones would be a difficult task. Smartphones should not be banned. Smartphones should be used appropriately. There should most definitely be some restrictions on the smartphones. Students need the phone mainly for before and after school purposes for example traveling back and forth from home to school. All phones should be shut off or silenced throughout the school day and left inside the backpacks. I also feel students should have no major reason to use their phones throughout the day. A smartphone should only be used if instructed by the teacher.
Alexandra Violetta
Spiro G. EDSE650 2/22/2016
Due to both the positive and negative effects of smartphones in school it's hard to have a right answer for this debate. However, I do think students should have a contract and be allowed to use their cell phones until the contract is broken. I think that's fair, and allows students the opportunity to use their phones when appropriate.
Christina Visciano EDSE 650 Spring'16
It is evident that the use of smart phones is growing rapidly. There are both positive and negative effects to the smart phone.
I do believe that the smartphone can work positively in the classroom. There are many ways a teacher can use a smartphone; such as for classroom management. In my classroom I use an app on my smart phone called Class Dojo. This app gives and monitors students positive reinforcement points when they reach their goals.
However, smart phones can also be used negatively in the classroom. I believe that smartphones are a distraction to students during classroom instruction. I also believe that smartphones can cause cyberbullying between students by text messaging, social media, etc.
Smartphones have created a tricky situation in the school setting. There are a plethora of reasons why students should be able to bring their smartphones to school. Parents may need to stay in contact with their children. Students may have medical needs and a phone is needed traveling to and from school. As a result smartphones are needed in my opinion. However smartphones are not needed in the classroom. Students don't need internet access at all times in the classroom. The teacher can access the internet for any information needed through the school WiFi or on their own cellular device. Students will have to cope with cyber bullying and nasty messages until educators and officers can get a grip on cyber bullying. As a result I think smartphones should be banned from the classroom but not from everyday life out of the classroom.
I think it's not a good idea for kids to be able to use cell phones in school because they almost always use them for texting and social media, not educational purposes in my experience.
I believe cell phones should be allowed in schools. Since all cell phones are now smart phones, smarts should be allowed in school. We live in a post 911 worlds, were we are on constant alert. Children should be able to use easily contact their parents in case of an emergency. However, I do think limitations should be placed on cell phone use in the classroom. For example, if students are using their smart phone calculator for an test, then the school should turn off the internet wifi.
I do like your idea about teaching students about cyber bulling. Too many kids bully each other online. Many of these bullies don't even know that they are committing a crime.
Sabine J EDSE 650
David Habib
EDSE 650
smart phones has good and bad side at the same time. students using their smart phones in school could be very dangerous special using the media to post pictures and videos during school times. teachers should be very careful about watching students been on their phones and what they do with it. student could easy bully each other by sending pictures or post some stuff in the internet. in my opinion phones should be not be allowed in schools.
My first thought while reading this article was that many of the features that are available on a smartphone are also available on other computing devices. With that being said, many of the positive and negative aspects of using a smartphone can also be executed in other mediums of technology as well. The primary concern of smartphones is the constant accessibility and its distractive tendencies. That is where the regulations regarding the accessibility are most useful. The most important thing is to consistently monitor the use of smartphones amongst younger children and teens.
Vinny Garcia
After reading this blog I still feel that smartphones should be banned in schools. I feel that they are a big distraction and are used by peers to discriminate against each other. I have observed smartphones being used maliciously by students against one another and I strongly feel that they should be banned from schools. In addition, by banning smartphones students are forced to pay closer attention to what they are learning in the classroom and they will succeed better academically. However, I do agree that smartphones do enable students to use certain tools to assist them in their classes but I suggest that teachers provide these tools via other formats for their students.
Jane Haddad
EDSE 650 BC Spring 2016
Very good article. Let's also not forget the issues caused by the students that "lose" their smart phones in school. Coincidentally this happened to a student of mine earlier today. She left her phone charging in the back of the classroom after being instructed not to and left the room. She returned back to the classroom later and (SURPRISE) no phone. More and more expensive personally owned smart phones in schools could potentially cause more issues.
Michael S.
EDSE 650 BC
I don't think that smartphones should be banned, however your suggestion on monitoring with an acceptable user policy is a great idea to help with some of the problem s that might occur with many teenagers.
With great smart phone power comes a great need for responsible smart phone use. That's not as a heroic-sounding as the Spiderman version, but you get the point. Smart phones are definitely a part of the technological reality of this era--like it or not. Any teacher will tell you that smart phones are incredibly useful for a number of things including checking email and even manipulating smart boards. It's inevitable that smart phones because of their profound usefulness will continue to infiltrate our schools, classrooms, and eventually, our lesson plans as teachers.
J. McGhee
While I think smart phones do have their positives, I believe the negatives outweigh the positives. I know I only had a cellphone in high school for phone calls to my parents to pick me up after my after school activities. I was to leave this device in my locker as if it was used in any way, it would be taken and my parents would have to come and get it at the end of the day. I think that incorporating these devices in class will create a distraction, and I believe that using laptops/Ipads is more than enough technology to be used in school. I do not believe using even more technology such as a smartphone where you can text, browse certain applications, and even social media is necessary when you already have devices that are used in school. There should be a user agreement in schools for students to agree before using smartphones, and I believe that they should only have them to be in contact with their loved ones before and after school, not throughout the school day.
-Victoria Troy
Kelsey Reed EDSE 650 BC
I believe that smartphones should be banned while in school. Students can have them on them but while they are in school they should be turned off. There is no reason for students to be messaging people while in a school setting. If a parent needs to get in touch with the student because of an emergency or anything of that nature, they can contact the school directly. Having smartphones readily available to students in school is a recipe for disaster. Students are in school to learn and also to of course socialize and they can do both of those things without the use of smartphones.
Esther Rosario edsn 650
I believe that smartphones should and should not be banned. This a very difficult topic because it goes both ways. For instance they are necessary in the case of an emergency. But then again in the vent of an emergency staff at the school can call your parents as well. Also phones have been the cause of bullying and harassment. I also believe that it is a major distraction for students in the classroom. I do believe that the negatives outweigh the positive any day.
I am completely unsure on which position to take. I believe there are both pros and cons with allowing children to use smart phones in classrooms. While there might be many advantages to integrating smart phones with education, students for the most part will become distracted. When I was in high school cell phones were banned from the building. Although I was devastated (what teenager wouldn't be), it helped me disconnect from my addictive device and truly focus on the moment.
the woes of technology remain an obstacle in what would be an ideal technological world. I know that schools should allow phones into the classes for many reasons first students are being ripped off by local bodagles for holding there phones. the classes would move along quicker if we had the advantage of hand held research devices. I understand the students will if they want take advantage of this liberty. so why not have it accessible for school use only. like block all social media websites while on grounds of school. this will prove to help teachers stay on task as well if you know what I mean
Lisa Paul summer 2016 edu. 650
I believe that smartphones should not be allowed in schools. Nowadays, students, specially in High Schools, use the smartphones to bully their peers, or distract their peers from the school lessons. Besides, in my opinion, the schools should allow the students to use internet only for school work, anything personal such as Facebook, or personal emails should be banned.
Vivianne Beltrand 650MA/ Summer 2016
Babayev Eti
Edsn 650
Technology has its negative and positive side. Although smart phones can be a good use in education children tent to use their phone at the wrong time while in school. I feel like in certain age group student shouldn’t have a phone. Now a days children at age 7 years old have phone which in my opinion isn’t necessary. In older age group above 15 years old should have a phone and should be able to use it in school but only when its small group activities to research or find information on your smart phone. As a parent I understand also that giving your child a cellphone to inform you when they get to school, leave school and what they doing afterschool. Makes you feel calm about your child statues. Phones should be in school but used only when needed.
Yafit Gadaev
EDSE 650
In my opinion, I believe that smart phones should not be banned from schools. I work in a high school where for the longest time cell phone usage was permitted and about 4 months ago they decided no more cell phones are to be used at any time during school hours. I understand why. Students are more focused on their phones than on the classroom material. There are times when the students have a free period or are done with their work and are still not allowed on their phones and they are really bored. I say allow the phones in school but sporadically. Put a limit on how much they can use it. There are many positive and many negative uses for smart phones, but in the case of having the phones in school I fell the negative outweighs the positive.
Ruty Israilov EDSE 650
This is such a tough subject - I will always agree and disagree on behalf of cell phone usage in the school. Here's why I agree for them to have a phone in school- my own personal experience when I was not able to pick up my teenager from school and could not get in touch with anybody in the school from the administrators it was nice being able to send my son a text and let him know not to wait for me and expect someone else to get him, it is also very beneficial in the event of an emergency I want to be able to contact my child or vice versa should the reason occur.
Here's my view on the negative aspects of having cell phones in school- social media, bullying, harassment and pure distraction. Rules for my son: you can have your phone in school but it is turned off until the dismissal and can only be turned on in case of an emergency. I believe that's the way it should be.
Mariya Khaimova
EDSN 650
smart phones can be used in a positive and negative matter. For instance, smart phones are good for looking up the weather, searching the web and of course, face time. Although smart phones are very known and almost everyone in the world has them, they can be very negative. It causes radiation, people are so dependent on it that they don't get other important things done, people begin using calculators on their phones to add or subtract. Smart phones need to be used for the right reasons. Like they say, "People get dummer, smart phones get smarter."
I believe cell phones should not be banned in school. At my current job, my high school students leave their phone in a locked security box. At the end of the day, during homeroom, they get to sign off and take their cell phone. During dismissal, I feel it is important that they have means of communication in case of an emergency. I definitely agree, cell phones are distracting and rarely used for educational purposes. However, I feel it is an invasion of privacy and safety to ban the cell phones in schools.
Elliana Kim-Alzate
650
Smart Phones like any other piece of technology has its pros and cons. There were some argumentative points made in the article. I do agree that any phone or type of Smart phone most of the time isn't used proactively as it should be. In the sense of cyber bullying and/or using it for inappropriate actions. But at the same time it is always a great thing to have in your hand if and when there is an emergency. There have been over the last few years an enormous amount of school lock downs and parents not being aware directly from the school. I absolutely love having a Smart phone for a variety of reasons but one in specific it is easy to access any kind of information when desired. I can check my emails being that it gets sent directly to my phone, get driving directions or directions for the subway/bus, etc. Yes we all use our phones at some time for inappropriate things but that doesn't mean it should be banned from schools in specific completely. In the school I am currently employed at has a lock box in their home room classes in which students have to hand in their phones in the morning to their homeroom teacher, the box gets locked and put away until dismissal at the end of the day.
Stefanie Rizzo
EDSN 650 - Summer 2016
I personally believe the use of smartphones in a classroom has positive and negative effects. Being that technology allows room for differentiation between assignments and lesson plans, it can also be a major distraction in the classroom. Being that most schools have access to some sort of technology, the use of a smartphone is not needed. An iPad provided by the department of education has the same apps a cell phone does. The teacher has the power of setting restrictions on a laptop, computer or iPad however, the teacher does not have the power to set restrictions on a students cell phone. Therefore, allowing students to use their cellphones in class would be a disaster. Majority of the kids will be checking their social media or texting their friends.
Alan Avezov
EDSN 650
Despite the fact that this article has made some valid arguments regarding allowing the use of smartphones in the classroom, I still believe it is a danger to allow it within the classroom. Especially in today's day and age where as the article even emphasized that Cyber-bullying is not limited to a smartphone, by allowing students access to a smartphone, we only amplify the chances that Cyber-bullying can occur within or outside the classroom. Therefore, although it may have some beneficial advantages, I think that its disadvantages outweigh them due to the amount of harm it can cause. There are always alternatives to the benefits that can be offered to students instead of a smartphone.
Milan Dey-Chao
EDSN650
Smartphones should not be completely banned from schools, but I think we are better off banning smartphone use from the classroom setting. It is hard enough to keeps the students attention without the distraction of a smartphone. I understand that there are benefits to smartphone use such as using math applications, texting missed homework to classmates, and texting reminders to the class. However, all of the aforementioned tasks may be performed outside of the classroom setting. I believe that the review and signing of an Acceptable User Policy is a step toward a reasonable compromise. Allowing the use of smartphones should be conditioned upon the required seminars and adherence to the rules and protocols. Understanding the principle that the use of a smartphone in a school setting is a priviledge that will be revoked if certain rules are violated seems reasonable to me.
Olga Vasquez
ED650
Summer 2016
The question posed in this article is one that has been debated over and over again. Teens argue that phones should not be banned, while other's are for it and think it would help put an end to many problems such as cyber bullying. I don't know if there is a clear cut answer to this issue and if its so black and white. I believe that there are definitely some advantages to being able to carry phones in school yet on the other hand, having had grown in this technological era I am also very aware of the dangers that can come with it. Some of the advantages to carrying phones are the obvious things like being able to contact someone in a case of emergency. However, it's important to weigh out the pros and cons. I believe that one of the main things that school districts should do is to teach cyber bullying and have courses that teach how to safely surf the web.
yh
Smartphones should not be banned in the classroom and schools. I personally believe that there is a time and place for their proper usage. For instance, texting in the middle of a lesson- no, but applying it for research purposes when there is not enough technology (such as laptops for each student) is great! The article does mention that cellphones can be a gateway to bullying, but bullying will be present physically, verbally, or through the use of other technology. In addition, in case of any emergency, both students and teachers have access to communication when in need. It is important for students to learn the etiquette needed behind cellphone usage in the classroom or school. With my students, I ask for them to turn their cellphones on vibrate during the day. In this case, if an emergency were to occur, students can have quick access to them. But, although it is present within the school and my classroom, the students will not get distracted during a lesson by texting or taking selfies.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this post as it brought forth both the pros and cons of a situation that is happening regardless of how you feel about it. Smartphones are now being found in the hands of children at younger and younger ages and the question of whether or not they should be allowed in schools is becoming ever more pressing. Smartphones are a distraction to everyone, young and old so it would be hard to keep students on task if they had the capability to venture onto uneducational websites. I don't see how the educational positives could outweigh the negatives that come with allowing students to bring their phones into academic settings. The positives of allowing students to have their phones would solely be in the form of communication purposes. If there is an emergency or a student is in danger it would be extremely helpful if they had a phone to contact someone and get help. ------------Kelly Subjenski EDSN650
I agree that smart phones should be banned from schools based on the problems that may arise which were mentioned in this article. They can be a huge distraction amongst many other things. Cyber bullying has become more and more of an issue as technology has become more and more accessible to teenagers and young adults. It is inevitable that students will bring their phones to school therefore I think that at the beginning of each day the schools should collect everyone's phones and then return them at the end of the day. I also agree with the rules that should be applied which were also mentioned in this article.
Debra C. EDSN 650 Summer I
I do not think cell phones should be banned in school, mainly in case of a serious emergency, for example, a terror attack or, if a school goes into lock-down. Students should have access to their phones in case such emergencies take place. Students should bring their phones to class and have to drop them into a basket before walking through the door. One minute before class is over they should be handed back their cell phones. With teenagers, cell phones cause an unimaginable amount of problems such as the ones listed in the article, but when a cell phone is really needed (usually during some sort of emergency) the cell phones are either not allowed to be brought into the school building at all, or are stored away in students lockers.
I don't think that smartphones should be banned in school due to the rising incidents in schools today. What I do believe the do is revise the rules for have a smartphone and the responsibilities and punishment that goes with not adhering to the rules. Today in some cases having a smart phone in school can make the difference in staying alive and connected.
This article is very interesting and scary at the same time. I say this, because technology as we know it, is taking over and replacing the fundamental things we once knew as everyday life. It is scary to think the way I grew up with a desktop or laptop in front of me with a keyboard and I could physically sit down and type will no loner exist eventually. I have a hard time with change, and the fact that these desktops will now be replaced with i phones, I do not like it. I do not agree with getting rid of desktop computers because there is only so much a phone can do and the size limits one to information, sight, fine motor skills etc. I feel a desktop in schools now is regulated and limits children to all the things listed in the article that we now want to transfer to the iphone and more. I feel the fact that we have to have children abide by this agreement, says that the iphone is not a good idea to have it replace a desktop. Children I feel are going to be at a disadvantage and they are going to think its fun and may not learn or get meaning out of what they are supposed to be learning. I think it needs to be discussed and really taken into consideration the drastic change we are shifting towards, and how it is going to effect our students in the long run.
Smartphones in school can be a very great tool for students. However, like with many other things, smartphones can absolutely be a distraction, as well. This ever growing and ever changing technology should be incorporated into the curriculum, if and only if, it benefits the student. Like with smartboards, some students do very well with them while others don't. With smartphones students have access to an abundance of information. If used the right way, and monitored, smartphones have a great purpose and could be used to educate and engage students to be more excited about obtaining knowledge.
Alyssa Emhoff
Course 650
8/18/16
I'm not quite sure where I really stand on this issue. I'm a believer in freedom (of many things, yet of course, there must be some rules.
That being said, I do not think that cell phones should be allowed in the classroom. I feel that the phones are a real distraction and can be used dangerously, like other technology. This is not to say that students should be banned from having them; they should just be put into a safe place during class time, and then returned to the students at the end of the day.
EDSE650 Rachel
This article is very important, and I like that it's states both pros and cons. To my opinion, I would agree to the use of smartphones in a classroom, but maybe with some software limitations, and with proper directions to the kids. As they can be both as a big help in classroom, cause you can have all needed information handy, as well as they can be harmful, if not used properly.
Olga
650 8/18/16
I think students should be able to use their cellphones for emergency only. Letting students learn from their smartphones is not a very good idea because they will be on Facebook and other social media instead of doing their assignments.
Nana magali, 650, summer4,2016
Students should definitely be able to bring their phones to school but their use should be limited, unless a teacher finds away to incorporate them into the lesson. I agree that students should attend seminars that would educate them about the proper way to use technology and how to treat others online. In addition, I believe there needs to be a lot of education surrounding technology all together. For example: teaching kids about the contracts they agree to with one click. They need to know what they're signing up for.
I agree that cellphones should be banned from schools because of the potential harm they may cause children. In order for this to happen, ideally, parents need to be on board and enforce these rules accordingly. Cellphones are now used to record inappropriate behavior, mock students/teachers, post videos on the internet, record fights, and last but not least they are used for bullying. Social media plays a big role in the bullying epidemic across the nation. I believe that with the quick access at their fingertips, it is now, more than ever, spiraled out of control.
I do not feel that smart phones should be banned. I do not think they should be used during a school setting, especially when a teacher is teaching a lesson. This rule of course will come with exceptions like emailing a friend homework or taking pictures of notes during class. I have found that taking a picture of my class notes helped me listen to the teacher better, since I was not focus on writing. I feel that if a child or even an adult is up to something sketchy, they will keep finding ways around the banned smart phone policy. The Acceptable User Policy sounded like a solid base line to at least control the usage and functionality of smart phones during class time.
Marie Amato
EDSN 650
Edward DeCamillis
EDSE 650
I think SmartPhones should be banned from classrooms very several reason. The smartphone is a a great tool, I probably would not be able to do many things or get many places without it, however it is also the cause of many problems within the classroom. I have caught several students cheating on exams by using notes stores on their phones and through group messaging sharing information. I also agree that smartphones are the sources for many cyber bullying incidents. If you watch the news, it is evident that children all over the country are filming brutal fights or posting derogatory comments about other students. This type of harassment often ends with suicide and that is truly a shame! If Smartphones are permitted in classroom there should definitely be rules and guidelines for students to follow, along with consequences for breaking them!
Christian K EDSE 650
I do not think that smartphones should be banned but do agree that the proper precautions should be taken when it comes to a child's safety. Students should also be informed on the effects of bullying via smartphones and made to understand this behavior is not acceptable and will not be tolerated. The acceptable user agreement is a great way to help students realize what they should and shouldn't do with their smartphones. The safety aspect is also an important point that students should understand.
Curtis EDU 650
I feel cell phones should be absolutely banned from the classroom. I was a teenager during the boom of the smartphone and can say that the access that i had during class was a distraction. I would be more interested in the social "horseplay" than anything going on in class.
I don't think the cited dangers necessarily validates a ban on smartphones in the classroom. However, required smartphone seminars for students between a certain age range may be valid to educate about the imminent dangers that may be involved. Of course, anyone who is interested can still take the seminar.
There are benefits and convenience in terms of enhancing education. Taking pictures of notes, group chats for group project discussions, etc. There should be rules and limitations. The dangers listed above such as bullying and spreading lies, could just as easily be done without smartphones on the internet.
Kathy EDSN 650.
Tantinia 650
I believe smart phones should not be banned from school. Smart phones can help us as teachers and as while as the students. As you had stated in the article the students can text the missing assignment to the classmate that are absent. That will improve the homework ratio of who does the homework when they are their our not there. Also the register the phones to law enforcement is a great idea. That will keep our children safe if they was to every go missing or get lost.
Kevin M. EDSE 650
I agree that smart phones should be banned in schools. Technology can have a negative effect on student's focus and school should be some place where they should be able to improve their focus. It is hard enough to manage a classroom without cell phones. Cell phones in the hands of some students could lead to big issues and issues that will only stay within in the classroom. For the few upsides that a cell phone might provide - there are far more downsides.
although smart phones cause danger, they are also a great tool for worried parents. For example, mothers can now download the app life 360, and know where their child is. This helps when schools buses are running late. The phone also helps for when kids get off the bus, and have a short walk. Phones do need to be monitored though, and responsible parents will find ways to monitor their children's phones, and may require their children to drop off the phone by the principle in the morning , and pick it up on the way home. Parents can also get a "kosher phone" where their children can only make calls, they are not able to access the internet, and in this way the phone may become safer. At the end of the day there are pros and cons to everything.
As a person who grew up attending public schools in Staten Island (from elementary through high school) before smartphones were an available technology, I believe that a classroom is not the place for such a device. Though there are many "pros" that can come with the internet at your fingertips, the very same "pros" can be gleaned from incorporating tablets or computers into instruction. I believe that the "cons" of a smartphone (from cyber bullying, to easy distractions, to inappropriate content being circulated) far outweigh any educational value that a smartphone may contribute.
Peter Piroso EDSN 650
Having smart phones in the classroom is another one of those technology "tightropes" we see in education today. On one hand having smartphones can help students be safe away from home, research and have information literally at their finger tips but, on the other hand, several problems pop up. Even putting aside the basic problems of having a regular phone in class (ringer going off, texting in class, and so on) there are still several cons to having the smartphone in class. For schools that may not have the best controlled students smartphones can further distract class in a number of ways (playing games, playing music, using apps, going online instead of doing work). Seeing nightmare videos online of teachers being filmed and pranked further cements the issue for me. Students should be able to bring smartphones to school, but not the classroom.
I think that smart phones are a great tool for parents to utilize in order to check in on their children. one way to kosher the phone is to lock the internet. the internet holds many dangers for children. at the end of the day there are pros and cons to everything , and parents must weigh their options, before making any decisions.
Samantha Laurella EDSE650
I do not believe smart phones should be banned in schools. However there should be an age where students are allowed to bring them to school. In today's day and age teachers are allowing students to access their work via smart phone usage. I do not believe students in the primary grades benefit from having smart phones in school. The internet can be a very dangerous place for young children if it is not monitored correctly.
Roche_EDSN 650_fall 2016
I think that smartphones have so many pros and cons to them. In this day and age, children are getting cell phones at such a young age and they're proficient in using them. While smart phones can be used for educational purposes and to dive deeper into content, I don't believe they should be allowed in classrooms. Smartphones have too much opportunity for distractions - such as texting, Instagram, snapchat, and all other social media apps. These, I believe, are too tempting for children to avoid using in a lesson. There are other ways to incorporate technology in the classroom and I don't believe a smartphone is the best way to do so.
With this being said, I also don't think they should be banned from schools. Cell phones are important for children safety and they should be allowed to have them in schools to access before/after school or during their free periods.
Smart phones are something that are here to stay. With the rise of people using them, there are advantages and disadvantages. I think that schools should take precautions if they are allowing students to use smartphones in schools. It is scary to think how many students may be bullied through smartphones right in our very own classrooms. But along with that, the advantages of taking pictures of notes, or using it to look up important information does give smartphones a benefit in the classroom.
Malka Kramer
11/07/16
edsn 650
I believe that smart phones should not be used in schools. Phones should be allowed to enter the building but they should not be out during the day. The topic of cyber bullying will just continue during school hours because it is easily accessible. Students once they leave school need there cell phones for safety reasons, and for contacting parents or guardians. Especially today students are receiving cell phones at younger ages and we cannot stop this. But during school hours I believe cell phones should not be allowed.
Matt Troisi
Fall 2016
I do not believe that smart phones should be entirely banned. There is of significant value for safety reasons at to why it serves a purpose. It could cause more of a distraction rather than getting their attention. In today's tech world, it is already difficult in getting the students attention as is. I see it as the students will wind up texting each other anyways rather than focus on learning. With the growing rate of cyber bullying it would most definitely become more prone to occur in this way. Setting a restriction on banning smart phones I feel is a great thing to do for the time being.
I love my smart phone. its so convenient an I am never out of the loop. With a simple tap and swipe and can access an endless array of information. I can even use an app to book a cab! Nonetheless, I do agree with you assessment that smartphones can be a danger for kids. The very things that I love about my phone can be really deadly in the hands of children. Schools do need to enforce the proper restrictions and precautions before allowing their students to have smart phones in school.
Faye Grossman
EDSN 650
There is no doubt that smart phones are a essential part of society. I really don't think that they should be part of the curriculum. We cannot trust kids at a young age to refuse temptation of talking to a friend or looking up something other than the schoolwork. I believe that education is efficient enough without the use of smart phones in the classroom.
Eugene Naccarato
Cellphone use in the class can be a useful tool. I do not believe the benefits of using cellphones outweigh the negative factors of having them used in the classroom. Cellphones would be a constant distraction for students in the class. In my school we have an advanced science course for 8th graders. These students have to use their phone in class to research certain material. Due to the fact the students were not using the cellphones properly, we had to dismantle that approach. This is a science program that is ranked top 10 in the city. The students in this classroom are high performing students, and if they can't handle the responsibility of using a cellphone in class I do not believe the rest of the school will be using it properly. Social media is just too much of a distraction for todays junior high school student.
Thomas Finale
I do not believe that children should be able to use their phone in the classroom. The teacher should supply enough materials for the students in order for them to understand a lesson they are working on. If I child needs to get more information once they are home then by all means they can use their phone to search anything needed. Children are way too distracted by their phones and I feel they will not pay attention to what is actually happening in the classroom.
Marie P
EDSN 650
Fall 2016
I don't think that iPhones should be banned. Although I do believe that they should be used in moderation. Cellphones have proven to provide safety to children when they leave school. It is a way for parents to keep in touch with their children and to make sure that they are safe. However during school time it is necessary that children keep their phones off and inside of their book bag because not only can it distract a student from learning but it can also be an aid for cheating purposes. We live in a world where cellphones are necessary but everything should be used in moderation.
-Amanda Riccio
I consider myself to be a strong opponent of the Smart Phone use in the classroom or at school at general. I think that modern schools are well equipped with technological devices, including computers with an internet access, that students do not have to rely on personal Smart Phones to get access to information. Using Smart Phones in school poses a threat to students safety; it also often serves as a major distraction. Another factor to consider is the affordability of Smart Phones. Many students come from families which can not afford to buy a Smart Phone. These students might become the target of bullying or ostracism. Vote to ban Smart Phone during this year's upcoming election !(:
The question arises whether or not the risks of utilizing a Smart Phone outweigh the benefits. Children and adults alike must err on the side of caution when using their Smart Phones because red flags can be easily overlooked. It is particularly important for students to be informed and responsible users of electronic devices since they are heavily used in schools and throughout instruction. Parents have a responsibility to ensure that their children are using their Smart Phones safely and constructively at home.
Natalie Kabakov
Fall 2016
EDSN 650
Having a smart phone in school has its pros and cons. However, I feel that the cons outweigh the pros. Cyberbullying is a huge issue in today's society. Before social media, children who were being bullied at school were usually able to escape it when they got home or left the school building. Today, children are followed by things they don't want to see, hear or be a part of. Cell phone usage in school will more likely than not turn out inappropriate. I don't think I'm ready for computers to become obsolete especially in the school setting.
Christina Sciarrillo
EDSN 650
Fall 2016
Smarts phones should not be used in schools because it is a distraction for students.
Sometimes students take advantage of the situation when they say I need my phone to call my parents ...
In the beginning of the year students fill up forms with contact numbers in case of emergency and vice versa, so in order to reach their parents they can use the school's phone.
Concentration is very important for students although it is not necessary using smart phones ....
Smartphones are part of everyday life but should not be taught to keep at a very young age due to distraction and not being able to concentrate on the lessons.
Etleva class 650
Naseer EDSN 650
I think smart phones are very useful even thought it's not appropriate for a classroom setting. That's why we need to monitor phone usage regardless if it's at home or at school. The tech world is advancing so quickly that if we don't introduce our children to such equipment we are limiting their learning experience. Smart phones have pros and cons but that does not mean we should completely ban them. The best way for us to provide the best learning experience is by allowing our children to be introduced to every teach equipment out there that will enhance their learning experience.
i don't agree that smart phones should be banned if people are going to say that smart phones should be banned than they should also say that computers and internet should be banned. the same thing that was stated in the article that teens and even adults are doing with smart phones the same exact thing is happening with lap tops and computers. yes you can ban smarts phones if you wish, but if computers are not going to be banned as well than everything in this article will still happen.
Alina cuello
monday evening class
EDSN 620
Steven Sena
650 Monday evening class
I believe that we should encourage our youth not to rely completely on our smartphones. The use of smartphones has become a little bit excessive I have to say, however their are still many more benefits and advantages. Their is still new technology and endless possibilities that are being developed daily for smartphones that make it almost a universal remote for life. I can literally do the following on my smart phone, turn my lights in my house on and off, open my front door, pair it with my Verizon cable box to use as a remote, open the garage, order food, order any product online, and play games.
M. Lucchesi 650 Fall 2016,
I agree with the point of making smartphones in the classroom a privilege, not a right. The idea of having cellphones in the classroom is still very new- to me the idea of a cellphone is still amazing and new. Cellphones could be used for instantly looking up information, completing a task, used as a device to play interactive games with the smart board.This could be an advantageous tool but at the same time if they arent used properly it could completely take over the student's learning experience. Cellphones havent been around long enough to know how to use them properly yet in the class setting but I see its potential now. I think in the future theyll be a great asset to the classroom
Smart phones should not be banned from school because the pros are greater than the cons. The article list the cons as everyday technology issue, not smart phones issues. Bully is an issue we have with all forms of technology; however, smart phone in the classroom are very beneficial. For example, it is a good way to differentiate instruction. Some kids have a hard time consuming information if its not on a screen and an easy way to accommodate them is by passing them a smart phone. Not to mention "Google" has become a lifesaver. If you don't know something you can quickly refer to google on your smart phone. Older students can use their phones for simple task like definitions or problem solving. Smart phones are like a must have item for the classroom. They should be on the supply list.
Teyana Smith
Edu Tech Monday 5pm
Interesting article. I think that cell phones should not be used in school except perhaps on lunch breaks. They are not appropriate for school and provide various distractions. Let the children focus in school in school; cell phones belong at home.
-Betty Cohen technology class at touro
Victoriya Levkovskaya
EDSN 650 Monday
Cell phones in school are a tricky topic. I understand why some people argue that cell phones should be banned, but I do not agree. I think that cell phones should not be banned in schools for a variety of reasons. First of all, cell phones are crucial in times of emergency and students may need their phones coming to and from school. Technically, school can check all phones at the start of the day and give them back at the end of the day, but for big schools, this would be a hassle. Another reason that I believe phones should be allowed in schools is because they can act as an educational aid. For example, students can use their phones to look up definitions for words that they do not know. Of course, I think that cell phone use should be heavily regulated and that students should only use cellphones during appropriate times. I like the idea of students signing a contract stating that they will use their phones responsibly and if they break the contract, then they lose their right to bring a cellphone to school.
Students at this young age aren't mature enough to use smartphones "responsibly". Based on my subbing experience they usually 1. "play music during my lesson (which disrupts my lesson and makes me stop to tell them to turn it off) or 2. record disruptive behavior such as fighting or an argument. The main uses students use their phones for are informal and irrelevant reasons that have nothing to do with the classroom environment. I believe that phones should be banned because they are NOT used as tools to help the students with there school work. They only encourage deviation from learning. If the students need media tools then the school should provide access to a school granted and APPROVED technology "ex.I-pad, or other devices" that will improve the class environment, NOT there own personal device.
Geoffrey Zimmerman
11/7/16
Day 4
I think there is a time and a place for smart phones while at school. I agree with the author in saying that within 5-10 desktop computers will be obsolete. Smart phones can be useful if the teacher is able to control what information the students are able to access while at school, but that seems impossible with data plans and the lack of public WiFi.
If the students data or use cannot be tracked while at school, I am all for banning smart phones at school. They can be distraction, personally invading, and used as a way to plagiarizer and cheat in class.
I'm glad the author touches on cyber bullying because it is a growing problem and can lead to fatal results. Kids view social media much more personal than adults and therefor are putting so much of there personal life out there for their peers to see. If cyber bullying happens at school, those students should have their smart phones confiscated by authorities.
I am on the fence with cellphones being banned in schools. Parents have purchased phones for their children so that they are allowed to keep in contact with them after the various emergencies and terror threats. Parents want to be able to track their children as well as be able to check on them to assure that they are safe. The unfortunate thing is that a lot of these phone are not being used responsibly but are being used very irresponsibly. I believe that parent should be responsible for teaching their children how to use the technology responsible and the dangers of using it irresponsibly. I believe that children should understand how helpful the device could be to them if they use it If the child is not going to use it responsibly.responsibly I school or otherwise I believe the ban should be banned one to one bases. Evelyn Peterkin
Although I see the many positive attributes a Smart Phone offers, I am completely against students being able to use them in a classroom. To be quite honest, nothing infuriates me more than a young child without a job in possession of a $700 device, however, to each their own. As far as the use of phones being used in a classroom I find it extremely unnecessary. Today’s classroom is full of other technology devices that students can use to enhance their learning. Children of today are constantly on a phone or device so they will have plenty of time to use it outside of school. In my experience, I see phones in the classroom only being used to assist in cheating on test or a distraction. These are not adults who may have family members that rely on them being constantly available or jobs that demand their phone to be on always. I do understand that parents find a need to contact their child for many reasons however, while in the classroom I believe phones should be left put away in a backpack, locker or be stored by a teacher until the end of the day. In case of a real emergency a parent can call a school to contact their child.
Miriam Lagnado
I believe smartphones should be banned in school. Children should not be using them during class-time. Children love being social; they are more likely to go on the internet or text their peers while on their phones. It is extremely difficult to supervise an entire class while using their devices. However, there are some positive aspects to smartphones as well. Children can have various apps that will remind them of homework or tests. One can start a class group to assist students with their school-work. All in all, there are many pros and cons to using smartphones. As educators, we must weigh them and decide what we think works for our students.
I can understand all the cons to having a cell phone in the classroom; cheating bullying and other. However, cell phones can provide help in the case of an emergency. Technology is growing every day and children need to be able to have access to the internet to help with assignments. I also believe it is important for parents to be able to reach their children when necessary. Children need to be taught how to use their cellphone appropriately during the school day.
Lanina Lopez
Lourdie Prophete says:
like most things in life, there are pros and cons. the impact of smartphones on today's society is undeniable. in the end, a smartphone is just another device or better yet a tool. and like all tools, they can be used constructively or destructively, depending on the wielder. Without proper supervision and education most adolescent will eventually misuse and abuse the capabilities of a smartphone, which is why parents should provide kids with a basic cell phone with limited capabilities; that way it can only be used for its primary purposes, phone calls/text messages. anything beyond the capabilities of a basic phone is a privilege, which should only be accessed by mature teens or ones who can afford it.
Technology has its positives and its negatives, we know this already. But, in my middle school setting, we do allow students to use their smart phones in class to research. With this comes the responsibility of trusting students to do the right thing. I understand this is easier with my students who are in grades 6-8, but there are still incidents that are addressed throughout the school year. My feeling is this, technology is so advanced now that neglecting to use these handheld computers is robbing the students of this great technology.
- Joseph Stabach
This is the era for technology. Technology, such as smartphones and Ipads are all around us. But I think smart phones should be banned from school. Students should focus on their education while in school instead of playing with their phones in class. However, I also think that they should have a cell phone for emergency. The school can keep the phones when kids are in school and they can pick them up when they are done with school. Then they won't be able to play with the phone in class and still feel safe having a phone for emergency situations.
Yenny Ho Wu (08/23/2017)
I believe that smart phones should be banned in school. Many students were playing with their smart phones during lesson time. I believe that students should concentrate and focus on learning in school, having their smart phones on hand will interrupt their learning. students were playing with their smart phone 80% of the time while in school, smart phones has taken away students learning time. Therefore, i think smart phones should be banned in school.
Dan Dan Xie
EDSN 650 summer 2017
I am very conflicted. On the one hand, I am absolutely against Smartphones in school due to the threat of cyber-bullying. Cyber-bullying is very real and in some cases has resulted in suicide. This alone is enough to make me want to prevent absolutely anything and everything that will harm our children. However, what you say makes sense. Limiting their usage and having the students sign an agreement makes sense. Also, having them understand that it is a privilege to use these Smartphones is paramount to their safety, and in some cases, their lives. Therefore, once the administrators take these protocols to ensure the child's safety, then and only then is it okay to use Smartphones in school for educational purposes.
I would have to agree with the author's perceptive. Instead of taking the easy route and getting rid of something, or limiting its access, it should be permitted with well thought of rules to manage the users and avoid possible incidents. Smart phones are extremely useful as I use mine daily in school and at work. I am able to snap class notes, save ideas for upcoming projects, and keep track of things in little to no time. As we all know time is very valuable and anyway to conserve time is always a plus. With that said, being an adult, I can self-regulate and control when and how I use my smart phone. Children and teenagers on the other hand, need some more assistance as they are sometimes unaware of the damage that can be caused when they have too much control and access.
It depends when and where you should ban phones. I as a teacher have taken the Department of education Certification exams and the phones are taken appropriately before taking the exam. As per the examples in the article, when smartphones should not be used for cheating, posting pictures without permission or destroying people lives, especially through cyber-bullying. However, there are times when it is appropriate during class like taking pictures of notes, and a calculator. It all depends, and when appropriate it should be banned but not all times.
- Merlyn Jannett Amaya
Smart phones in all essence should not be banned. The smart phone has truly revolutionized how we access, store and transfer information. The issue here is ensuring the appropriate use at the appropriate time and place. Young children are not always necessarily responsible enough to handle a certain level of responsibility not only associate with the use of smart phones, but responsibility in general terms. I therefore agree with the recommendation of having students, sign a "User policy" this will help students to fully understand the dangers associated with the careless use of smart phones. Often times the smart phone/ technology is not the problem, the problem lies with us the users who are uniformed of risks associated with the careless use of smart phones. We should therefore ensure young children are adequately educated of the pros and cons of using smart phones.
Paloma EDSN 650
I do believe that smart phones should be banned from the classroom because they cause a whole of of unnecessary trouble. The students have a more challenging time focusing on the tasks at hand. And the teacher's time becomes wasted due to class management issues pertaining to the cell phones.
Smart phones should definitely be banned from school. Children are using cell phones for cheating, collecting inappropriate information about school staff or their peers.One of the reason why they should not be allowed is that kids are getting bullied that leads to serious consequences. As teachers we must think what is the best for our students and make our schools safe,engaging, and interesting.
Galyna Melnyk
I strongly believe that cell phones should not be allowed in school. Although they could offer some beneficiary learning aspects, I agree that they have more cons than pros when it comes to learning and distractions. Children already find various distractions to occupy themselves with in the classroom whether it's conversing with other students or simply dosing off. Social media has taken over young children's lives in today's age and when it comes to education, this is extremely distracting in their everyday lives.
Cell phones should not be completely banned from the classroom community. I believe cell phone use in the classroom can be a very productive idea, but needs to be used in the correct way. If we just ask students to take their cell phones out for an activity, it is very easy for them to become side tracked. However, maybe if we were able to control the wifi and let students on certain websites at certain times for an activity, it will allow the students to remain on task. Anything outside of classroom activities, cell phone use should not be allowed in the school. Cell phone use should also be used sparingly, because social interaction is significant especially for younger children. Too much technology use allows children to become disconnected with others in a way, so this should definitely be limited so students have that time to interact with one another and be able to form conversations without their cell phones.
-Bianca Nelms
In my opinion smartphones should not be banned in schools. Technology is definitely on the rise and we are going to see more technological devices that are very useful in the classrooms. On this note, administers and teachers need to develop a policy regarding the use of smart phones in the classroom, since this device is very effective to use with all level of students. students must sign a contractual agreement with the teacher regarding smart phone usage in class before they can use this device.
Teachers need to have an information session with their students about the dangers of using their smart phones on certain websites, and monitor student's activities, and websites that their visit while they are in school.On the other hand, parents also need to sign a binding agreement with the school regarding their child using a smartphone in school for educational purposes.
In today's society, the smartphone has become the center of communication. People of all ages are using smartphones or devices to receive texts, emails, and search the internet. In addition, considering that the smartphone is an important part of daily life, students take them to school. I do not fully agree that phones should be banned in school. In my school, phones are not allowed to be used until school is over. On the other hand, other schools I know allowed students to use their smartphones during lunch. They do this in order to accommodate students and their interests. I also think that this is an alternative method, especially for upper grades or middle school. I do not think phones should be allowed during class time because it can act as a distraction. Also, if phones are not banned in schools, then boundaries and guidelines should be set in order to prevent bullying and any other complications.
-Jennifer Occhipinti
I think that smartphones should not be completely banned. As parent of a ten years old, I know how distracting a phone can be to a child, and even to a teenager. There is a lot of information that they get from there. I remember when I went to high school and they used to take cellphones away only your parents were allow to get them back. But nowadays smartphone provide so much information that kids used inappropriate.
Erika EDSN 650
I don't think phones should be banned in school. I think they should be allowed but with certain regulations. Like making sure they're not used in class but out of class it should be allowed.
Students are becoming "addicted" to their SMART phones and new technology. Therefore I feel we should come up with ways for students to use their SMART phone to enhance their learning. Teachers can use SMART phone technology to engage students in lessons. However, I am unsure how teachers can make sure students stay on task when utilizing SMART phones during lessons, instead of simply using them to play games, go on social media or as a distraction. I also agree that students should be required to attend SMART phone safety seminars.
Chelsea Olgiati
The thought of banning smartphones in schools is a humorous one indeed, and from the tone of the post, it is clear that that is not what is intended, but the article does highlight the urgent need to address safety and appropriate use concerns that have emerged with the upsurge of smartphone usage in the classroom.
First the safety issue is one that must be seriously addressed by school administrators, parents and all concerned.children need to be trained in the responsible usage of these devices
The great potential of smartphones to radically transform the learning environment need to be harnessed by educators. Smartphones are here to stay let's find creative ways to leverage their use!
There are pros and cons to permitting students to use their cellphones. I believe it varies according to the population of students and age group. For example, the school where I work has many responsible students that can be trusted.
When assigning my students a power point group project (using google slides), I permitted them to use their cellphones and work on the project and it was successful. I have also seen some students use Microsoft word to type their class notes. This can also be helpful to students who may have certain impairments (hearing disabled, visually disabled). There may be apps or resources on the phones that can be useful to students with certain disabilities and help them meet class expectations with the assistance of the cellphones.
In conclusion, this is not a yes/ no or black/ white response. It varies according to the population/ responsibility and needs of students.
Francesca Cordone
EDS 650
Summer 2017
I do not believe smart phones should be banned in schools. I believe they can be used per the discretion of the teacher and be regulated by the educational professionals within the building. From a safety perspective, a cellphone is essential and needed in case of an emergency.
Smartphone literacy is something that is learned by children at an increasingly early rate. The ease of the user interface, together with the variable opportunities for learning, make it a powerful tool in reaching children through a medium they have grown up mastering their entire lives. I believe as more generations are born into this era of smart technology, these types of devices will become so ingrained into our culture, that there will be little debate over their place in the classroom.I think the key is to promote and teach proper use of all the new technology we do and will encounter, and make sure students are technologically literate.
Edward Giordano,
I do not know where i stand with smart phones being banned in schools. I think there are pros and cons using smart phones in school. Smart phones can be used in negative ways such as, inappropriate photos, videos, messages and social media. If smart phones were banned, it will not stop cyber bullying. That would just continue after school. regarding to the article, smart phones can be beneficial for classroom use. In the past, I allowed students to use their phones for calculator or dictionary use, even for a quick google check. Lastly, parents should be notified, sign a form and be monitored by a school system.
Smartphone technology has been one of our societies technological marvels. The smartphone enables everyone who has a smartphone, access to almost every single piece of knowledge and understanding unearthed by mankind. In the hands of the mature and responsible individual they can be an empowering resource that promotes success. In the hands of the irresponsible it is a tool of social mischief and havoc. As mentioned in this article smartphones can be used by students in the classroom for access to invaluable information and methods of expression, but at the same time tools of cyber bullying and misconduct. But i believe that banning smartphones in the classroom setting is a mistake. Yes, I agree that they can be a nuisance and led to behavioral problems, but so can so many other technologies, tablets for example. I believe to successfully integrate smartphone technology in the classroom is to make students more aware of the risks and benefits as well as educate them on proper use. smartphones are indispensable resources and I hope one day we will be able to use this technology to further learning in the classroom instead of a hindrance.
Kyle Noto
EDSN 650
Spring 2018
I feel smartphones should be banned in schools for many reasons. I have found students leaving to use the bathroom during exams and being caught by other students looking up answers in the bathroom. Another incident can occur when teaching because students will try to think of cunning ways to text in class, such as making believe they are going in their purse/book bag. Students are so eager to answer their friends instantly when they receive that notification in class. These are just few of the reasons why smartphones should be banned in schools. If their is an emergency, parents will notify the school, or the child can notify the parent by making a call from the main office.
I think that Cyber Bullying is a big topic and usage of smart phones in schools should defiantly be addressed. As the author mentioned that "all schools and districts to review their technology policy and examine if their plan adequately addresses the rise of Cyber Bullying and make the appropriate adaptations if needed". It can be beneficial and not depending on the different causes.
Antonina Nefedov
EDSN 650
I really enjoyed this post. It discusses the cons and pros about banning the cell phone. There are pros and cons to permitting students to use their cellphones. I believe it varies according to population of students and age group.There may be apps or resources on the phones that can be useful to students with certain disabilities and help them meet class expectations with the assistance of the cellphones.
espn 650-Tues
Fitore Demirovic
I think that it is best that teachers learn how incorporate smart phones in the class because it is such a big part of our every days life. If you try to ban them, there will only be opisition
I am in complete agreement with this article. Cell phones, although they have many benefits to their use, can be used in ways to hurt other people (students). It is important for schools and parents to have guidelines for how students use their cell phones in school property.
Smartphones can be used for many different reasons throughout a school day. Children and adults can all use smartphones for negative or positive reasons. Having smartphones in a school setting is not necessary. Therefore, I do not feel that smartphones should be used in a classroom or a school setting at all. Some may argue and state that students are responsible and can use phones for class, communication. However, schools should have computers and laptops for students to use throughout the day. Most of the time phones can be distracting. In addition, cyber-bullying and stealing now have easy access just because the phones are present on the school campus. Therefore, I believe that smartphones at schools should be banned. We do not need to be glued to our cell phone devices to have a successful day at school. This generation is too comfortable and attached to technology. A few hours away from your phone isn't going to harm you!
-Yokasta 650
I don't think cell phones should be banned but there should be some rules and boundaries set within the classroom on how and when they can be used. today cellphones are more then just phones, they have become like a piece of us. when we think we misplaced them or when the battery starts running low we all start to panic as if our world will end! i also feel like parents feel much more at ease knowing their children have access to their own phones. with todays school shootings, attacks and what nots having cell phones allows children and parents to have that direct communication. its true that cell phones and bullying does exist but honestly with or without cell phones they will still exist. So i think banning cell phones would not be such a smart thing to do.
I am torn on this issue, while i agree that being allowed to use a smart phone in school can be useful, I also agree that they can be disruptive to the learning environment and used inappropriately. At my school students are allowed to bring a phone to school once the parent has signed an agreement that if the phone is taken out during instructional time, it will be confiscated and the parent must come to the school to retrieve it. I work with special ed students who have been known to take out their phones when they don't wish to do work and disrupt the lesson. At my son's school, the classroom teacher collects the phones in the morning, locks them up in the office, and then returns them at the end of the day. I am completely fine with that as I don't have to worry about his phone being stolen. SEDN 650-L.Rivera
Upon reading the article, my first instinct is to say I keep going back and forth. I am a mom to a very sweet and very talented soccer player who is in the 4th grade. He has already asked if he can have a cell phone, because there are many times that I drop him off at soccer practice and then need him to get in touch with me to let me know if practice will finish sooner or later. In that instance it is great, but then I get to thinking, is he only going to use the phone for that purpose? I am sure he will be using all the smart phones applications, wherein lies the dangers that the article mentioned. Bullying, scammers, are just two of the potential dangers that the youth using cell phones is faced with. I think that students should be allowed to have cell phones, but they also must sign a release that allows the school to monitor their online activity while at school. If they can not comply with this then, they should not be allowed to have the phone in school. There should not be anything on their phone that they feel needs to be hidden, and if so it should not be done so at school. I always fear that if ever there was an emergency I would deem it absolutely necessary to get in touch with my children.
As an aside I found it interesting that the article mentioned that desktops/laptops will become obsolete in the not so distant future. I think that no matter how smart our smart phones become, they still can not replace the desktop in some fields such as editing and engineering where the programs need a lot of memory to operate effectively.
Michaela Tusinean
650 Sunday afternoon session
10/28/2018
There are definitely pros and cons to allowing smart phones in the classroom. In my school, smart phones are banned or are collected at the door before students enter the building (they have to go through metal detectors). As a teacher, I honestly really enjoy the no smartphone rule because I student-taught in a school where smart phones were allowed in the classroom and students were constantly distracted by their phones. They were always looking in their bags at their phones to check for text messages or phone calls, or they would even take it out to snap pictures of friends during class. The only time I felt that smart phones were helpful were when we played this online game, called Kahoot. It's an interactive multiple choice game in which the students compete for the most answers correct, using their phones (a projector is needed as well.) Although this game was highly educational and fun, I can still play this game with students at my new school (the no cellphone school) using chrome books instead of smart phones.
I also remember being a high school student that was extremely distracted by my cell phone during class. I was constantly checking to see if I got a text or phone call. My students now do not even have that as an option for a distraction. In addition, they are forced to only interact with their peers face-to-face, as opposed to having the option of interacting via phone, which I think improves their social skills and overall improves the culture of the classroom because they are spending more time speaking to each other and getting to know each other in the class, rather than texting their friends who may be in other classes.
I believe that smart phones should be banned from being used in schools.They should not be restricted from being brought to school all together but their should be policy that restricts the use of smart phones on school property to emergency situations. In doing this schools will eliminate the responsibility of having to patrol smart phone usage on school property. Instead each child should be given a school issued laptop that is pre-programed with the materials need for the classes the student is taking and all other resources or programs should be inaccessible. This will allow students to still utilize technology in the learning environment but keep students safety at the for front. With this type of policy the school should still have seminars twice a year on smartphone, and internet safety educating students about the dangers and the proper way to handle situations such as bullying or messages from persons they don't know.
Tiffany Robinson
650
Fall 2018
I believe that smart phones should not be banned from schools, allowing students to use them when they are most subjected or needed. To support this I agree with that paragraph where students should be aware of the Acceptable User Policy which requires students to attend a minimum of 2 smart phone safety seminars in which they learn about lurking dangers and how to handle those situations. In addition the paragraph added that the Acceptable User Policy should require students to;
· Register their smart phone with the local law enforcement.
· Understand that they can only send appropriate text, email, or picture messages.
· Understand that they should not give their address or other personal information on a phone call, text, or email to people they do not know, or if others can hear them.
· Understand that they should never respond to an email, text, picture, or voice message from someone they don’t know.
· Agree that they will inform an adult they trust if they receive anything on their phone—a call, a text message, an e-mail, a picture, or voicemail message—that makes them uncomfortable.
· Delineate which applications and web sites are appropriate for school use.
I believe that this policy will be a great way to help students understand the dangers including the positive benefits of using a cell phone in the classroom. Lastly, I believe that cell phones and such devices should be accessible due to emergencies within their family and such happenings that are occurring in many schools lately.
If a classroom has tablets, I-Pads or laptops for student use I believe the Smartphone is not needed in most classroom situations. In all situations where technology is used a teacher must be vigilant on appropriate use and management of technology at all times. Smartphones, due to their size allow for more off-task and inappropriate usage during class time. If Smartphones are used it needs to be thoughtfully integrated into the curriculum and used appropriately. Brodersen-650
EDSN 650- Karmela
With technology, there is of course always a positive and negative side. Teachers and parents should keep in mind that smart phones could be very beneficial in many different situations. In my opinion, smartphones should not be banned. Instead of trying to ban them, educators and administrators should work together to provide students with the knowledge of an acceptable user policy is which is a perfect solution to use smartphones safely in a school setting.
Things always have two sides positive and negative. As my point of view, We can't stop the technology trend involving into classroom,"Have a plan , not a ban" students carry smartphone to school is very normal these days.however, we still have to aware that smart phone will influence students a lot. Cyber bulling is a main issue in middle school age,but many people think cell phone will be the tool to cause this problem.Is it true? In the article mentioned, school should take some actions and make some rules at school.I totally agree, School should make rules in school, like when can students use smart technology? Educate students using this device to benefit their learning. As I know,some middle high and high schools in New Jersey allow students bring phone to school but they have to put it in the locker until schools dismiss. No matter if they have smartphone or not, cyber bulling will not be used only by smart phone, it could be a computer at home. We need to educate student "bulling is not allowed" not to ban a smart phone to stop it. Ting Ting Yen
Smartphones for students have become an appendage. They are always on them. Often for adults it appears the same way. How many times have you gotten out the door and almost to the train or work and realized you don't have your phone? Now, how many of us keep going and say...it's alright??? Almost no one I'm sure.
There are so may reasons to say YES!!! but I learn more towards saying no. I think that inevitably we must trust our students and having them participate in cyber-bulling workshops and requiring a signature from parents as well as students that defines acceptable use of devices is a great idea. As a classroom teacher and an adult I have trouble staying off of my own phone, so I am very aware of all the possible distractions that the smartphone proposes. For me, I'd rather provide students with a device that I can see, that has limited access to apps and no texting capabilities. You can miss so much once you been distracted, especially by a text/instant message or notification from an app. It's hard to force yourself to focus.
When you have a limited allowance policy and state that phones/devices will be confiscated if not properly used in classroom, you invite a barrage of backlash from students and parents, even if they have signed a user agreement. Parents and students will argue "you didn't pay for it," or "you're not the student's parent" etc. Its a never ending downward spiral than can also lead to violence against the teacher. Because it can be such a slippery slope, I believe it best to proceed with caution.
The educator and administration should be steadfast in ensuring that advancement is happening in curriculum, instruction, and technology, but often I wonder at what cost. If we could adhere to "the rules," then the solution would be obvious. For me there are so many mitigating factors, that a preliminary trial period would have to suffice. I am just not a supporter of the use of smartphones in the classroom, but as a whole I would have see more research or statistics to be swayed.
Tanika McShall
EDSN 650
FA 218
Tanika McShall
EDSN 650
FA 18
Angelique EDSE 650
I do not think that smartphones should be used in the classroom. I think that there is not a place for smartphones in the classroom. Smartphone can be used for several things, but the main thing they are used for is communication. When students are in the classroom they are learning therefor they do not need the distraction of smartphones. They can use smartphones outside of the classroom. I also agree with the author of the article when they state that students should have a phone safety seminar. This can be extremely useful especially for younger student who are beginning to use smartphones for the first time. It can also be helpful for older students. Students should know some ground rules when using smartphones and how they should be appropriately used.
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