Schools tend to have a policy of no phones in class or—in some schools—no phones at all.
In today’s world, phones have become essential tools for nearly everything people do, from organizing our schedules to accessing large amounts of information instantly.
Phones should be allowed to be used in school because phones can be used to facilitate communication—either for emergencies or to overcome language barriers—-and to enhance education—often by providing access to educational resources.
The communication barriers between two people who don’t understand each other can be difficult to deal with.
But using translation tools in class can be helpful. Some teachers do use their phone to use translation tools to help understand them. Students who are not fluent in the language of instruction can use translation apps to better understand lessons and communicate with teachers and classmates.
Using assistive technology, phones offer features like speech-to-text and text-to-speech, which help students with hearing, speech, or learning disabilities to participate more effectively in discussions and activities.
Phones also provide quick access to online resources like e-books, articles, educational videos, and research papers.
Enhanced engagement can be useful because of interactive learning experiences, such as educational games, like Kahoot, Gimkit, and Blooket.
These can make lessons more engaging, helping students focus and stay interested in the subject and do better in the classroom.
Some might say it can be a health issue because excessive phone use can cause low attention spans. The health concerns are a problem, but teachers can limit screen time in the classroom and encourage breaks to reduce eye strain.
Using phones for brief, focused activities rather than constant use helps balance their educational benefits with health.
Now others can say that it will give students a chance for cheating.
Yes, phones can be used to cheat, but students cheat with or without phones. The focus should be on promoting academic honesty and designing assessments that show understanding over answers.
People can say that phones can be distracting. While phones can be distracting, teachers can set rules and use classroom management. Parents can also add software and apps to limit access to non-educational content.
In a world full of digital technology smartphones have become a powerful tool that can aid in education when integrated into nearly every aspect of life, it makes sense to embrace technology.
