Phones have always posed a challenge and sparked controversy, particularly at Eastmont High School. While some suggest that methods like phone boxes or pocket charts are necessary, I believe they are not needed. Instead, enforcing strict phone rules is the best solution to address classroom distractions while allowing the benefits of phone access.
Phones in the classroom can prove useful in a variety of ways. These ways include accessing certain websites for research that the Chromebooks cannot access, being able to contact people if emergencies arise, and accessing certain photos or files that the Chromebooks cannot access. Phones have proven to be valuable learning tools that help with problem-solving and fine motor skills. Most websites that are needed for research projects are blocked on the school Chromebooks, leaving mostly unreliable websites like Wikipedia. Phones can completely bypass this, having access to all reliable websites to use for research projects. Phones being on the student’s person is also essential for the student’s safety. If an event were to occur where students need to contact their parents or guardians, they would be able to quickly do so. Students would also be able to easily dial 911, thus ensuring their safety. If a class requires the use of a camera, such as Photography, Drawing, Etc. Phone accessibility can be vital as a phone camera is needed. Using the phone to transfer information like photos or files is also very important in these classes.
Nevertheless, phones can be a large distraction in the classroom. I believe that phone pockets and charts are not needed, but strict rules are still needed. If a student is seen on their phone when not instructed to be or off task while on their phone, it can be taken for the period. If the student is a chronic offender, then the phone can be taken till the end of the school day. If phones are present in a non-phone time, punishment can be pursued.
Though phones can be a distraction, they can also be valuable learning tools. Locking phones up in the classroom only limits the learning capabilities of students and slightly decreases the amount of distractions present. Phones should be with students at all times for learning benefits and emergencies. So, do you think phones should be locked away?
