I agree that cell phones should be banned from the classroom. It’s terribly obvious to me that, “students would use them for purposes other than educational (Allen & Kolb, 2008).” I also think that the upside of cell phones in class isn’t that great, so it isn’t worth the inevitable problems that will come up. I reject the pro argument that many students already have a phone, so the cost is minimal. I don’t believe most students have internet access on their phone, and if they do, it isn’t free. Are we going to buy some kids a cell phone and plan, but expect others to finance their own? I don’t think that’s fair, and I think it’s another way the poor kids will feel inferior.
Letting kids use cell phones outside of class, on field trips or at home, avoids the distractions in class, but has the same money issue I already mentioned. The lure of texting friends will be too much for most students to avoid. I think if you hand a kid a cell phone, they’re thinking of social issues, not listening to your assignment. The risks outweigh the rewards.
Bibliography
Allen, J., & Kolb, L. (2008). Should Cell Phones be Banned from the Classroom? Learning and Leading with Technology .
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I agree Everett!
ReplyDeleteIf cell phones are allowed in the class, I believe that too many kids will be texting each other about a variety of things that are unrelated to the lesson. Also, these conversations are going unmonitored in your class - what if kids are talking about someone else? Can cyber-bullying take place?
Like you mentioned - there just aren't enough rewards to overide all the risks