why cell phones should not be allowed in school essay

Featured Topics

Featured series.

A series of random questions answered by Harvard experts.

Explore the Gazette

Read the latest.

It’s on Facebook, and it’s complicated

How far has COVID set back students?

What do anti-Jewish hate, anti-Muslim hate have in common?

Do phones belong in schools.

iStock by Getty Images

Harvard Staff Writer

Bans may help protect classroom focus, but districts need to stay mindful of students’ sense of connection, experts say

Students around the world are being separated from their phones.

In 2020, the National Center for Education Statistics reported that 77 percent of U.S. schools had moved to prohibit cellphones for nonacademic purposes. In September 2018, French lawmakers outlawed cellphone use for schoolchildren under the age of 15. In China, phones were banned country-wide for schoolchildren last year.

Supporters of these initiatives have cited links between smartphone use and bullying and social isolation and the need to keep students focused on schoolwork.

77% Of U.S. schools moved to ban cellphones for nonacademic purposes as of 2020, according to the National Center for Education Statistics

But some Harvard experts say instructors and administrators should consider learning how to teach with tech instead of against it, in part because so many students are still coping with academic and social disruptions caused by the pandemic. At home, many young people were free to choose how and when to use their phones during learning hours. Now, they face a school environment seeking to take away their main source of connection.

“Returning back to in-person, I think it was hard to break the habit,” said Victor Pereira, a lecturer on education and co-chair of the Teaching and Teaching Leadership Program at the Graduate School of Education.

Through their students, he and others with experience both in the classroom and in clinical settings have seen interactions with technology blossom into important social connections that defy a one-size-fits-all mindset. “Schools have been coming back, trying to figure out, how do we readjust our expectations?” Pereira added.

It’s a hard question, especially in the face of research suggesting that the mere presence of a smartphone can undercut learning .

Michael Rich , an associate professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and an associate professor of social and behavioral sciences at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, says that phones and school don’t mix: Students can’t meaningfully absorb information while also texting, scrolling, or watching YouTube videos.

“The human brain is incapable of thinking more than one thing at a time,” he said. “And so what we think of as multitasking is actually rapid-switch-tasking. And the problem with that is that switch-tasking may cover a lot of ground in terms of different subjects, but it doesn’t go deeply into any of them.”

Pereira’s approach is to step back — and to ask whether a student who can’t resist the phone is a signal that the teacher needs to work harder on making a connection. “Two things I try to share with my new teachers are, one, why is that student on the phone? What’s triggering getting on your cell phone versus jumping into our class discussion, or whatever it may be? And then that leads to the second part, which is essentially classroom management.

“Design better learning activities, design learning activities where you consider how all of your students might want to engage and what their interests are,” he said. He added that allowing phones to be accessible can enrich lessons and provide opportunities to use technology for school-related purposes.

Mesfin Awoke Bekalu, a research scientist in the Lee Kum Sheung Center for Health and Happiness at the Chan School, argues that more flexible classroom policies can create opportunities for teaching tech-literacy and self-regulation.

“There is a huge, growing body of literature showing that social media platforms are particularly helpful for people who need resources or who need support of some kind, beyond their proximate environment,” he said. A study he co-authored by Rachel McCloud and Vish Viswanath for the Lee Kum Sheung Center for Health and Happiness shows that this is especially true for marginalized groups such as students of color and LGBTQ students. But the findings do not support a free-rein policy, Bekalu stressed.

In the end, Rich, who noted the particular challenges faced by his patients with attention-deficit disorders and other neurological conditions, favors a classroom-by-classroom strategy. “It can be managed in a very local way,” he said, adding: “It’s important for parents, teachers, and the kids to remember what they are doing at any point in time and focus on that. It’s really only in mono-tasking that we do very well at things.”

Share this article

You might like.

‘Spermworld’ documentary examines motivations of prospective parents, volunteer donors who connect through private group page 

An economist, a policy expert, and a teacher explain why learning losses are worse than many parents realize

Researchers scrutinize various facets of these types of bias, and note sometimes they both reside within the same person.

How old is too old to run?

No such thing, specialist says — but when your body is trying to tell you something, listen

Excited about new diet drug? This procedure seems better choice.

Study finds minimally invasive treatment more cost-effective over time, brings greater weight loss

Why Schools Should Ban Cell Phones in the Classroom—and Why Parents Have to Help

New study shows it takes a young brain 20 minutes to refocus after using a cell phone in a classroom

Photo by skynesher/iStock

Parents, the next time you are about to send a quick trivial text message to your students while they’re at school—maybe sitting in a classroom—stop. And think about this: it might take them only 10 seconds to respond with a thumbs-up emoji, but their brain will need 20 minutes to refocus on the algebra or history or physics lesson in front of them— 20 minutes .

That was just one of the many findings in a recent report from a 14-country study by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) that prompted this headline in the Washington Post : “Schools should ban smartphones. Parents should help.” The study recommends a ban on smartphones at school for students of all ages, and says the data are unequivocal, showing that countries that enforce restrictions see improved academic performance and less bullying.

It’s a fraught debate, one that prompts frustration among educators, who say students are less focused than ever as schools struggle to enforce cell phone limitation policies, and rage from some parents, worrying about a possible shooting when they can’t get in touch, who insist they need to be able to reach their children at all times. And, perhaps surprisingly, it prompts a collective yawn from students.

In fact, students openly admit their cell phones distract them and that they focus better in school without them, says Joelle Renstrom , a senior lecturer in rhetoric at Boston University’s College of General Studies. It’s an issue she has studied for years. She even performed an experiment with her students that supports what she long suspected: Cell Phones + Classrooms = Bad Learning Environment.

BU Today spoke with Renstrom about the latest study and research.

with Joelle Renstrom

Bu today: let me get right to the point. do we as a society need to be better about restricting cell phones in classrooms it seems so obvious..

Renstrom: Of course. But it is easier said than done. It’s hard to be consistent. We will always have students with some kind of reason, or a note from someone, that gives them access to technology. And then it becomes hard to explain why some people can have it and some people can’t. But student buy-in to the idea is important.

BU Today: But is getting students to agree more important than getting schools and parents to agree? Is it naive to think that students are supposed to follow the rules that we as parents and teachers set for them?

Renstrom: I have made the case before that addiction to phones is kind of like second-hand smoking. If you’re young and people around you are using it, you are going to want it, too. Every baby is like that. They want to reach for it, it’s flashing, their parents are on it all the time. Students openly acknowledge they are addicted. Their digital lives are there. But they also know there is this lack of balance in their lives. I do think buy-in is important. But do it as an experiment. Did it work? What changes did it make? Did it make you anxious or distracted during those 50 minutes in class? I did that for years. I surveyed students for a number of semesters; how do you feel about putting your phone in a pouch? They made some predictions and said what they thought about how annoying it was. But at the end, they talked about how those predictions [played out], and whether they were better able to focus. It was very, very clear they were better able to focus. Also interestingly, not a single student left during class to get a drink or go to the bathroom. They had been 100 percent doing that just so they could use their phone.

BU Today: Should we be talking about this question, cell phones in classrooms, for all ages, middle school all the way through college? Or does age matter?

Renstrom: It’s never going to be universal. Different families, different schools. And there is, on some level, a safety issue. I do not blame parents for thinking, if there’s someone with a gun in school, I need a way to reach my kids. What if all the phones are in pouches when someone with a gun comes in? It’s crazy that we even have to consider that.

BU Today: What’s one example of something that can be changed easily?

Renstrom: Parents need to stop calling their kids during the day. Stop doing that. What you are doing is setting that kid up so that they are responding to a bot 24-7 when they shouldn’t be. If you’re a kid who gets a text from your parent in class, you are conditioned to respond and to know that [the parent] expects a response. It adds so much anxiety to people’s lives. It all just ends up in this anxiety loop. When kids are in school, leave them alone. Think about what that phone is actually meant for. When you gave them a phone, you said it’s in case of an emergency or if you need to be picked up in a different place. Make those the parameters. If it’s just to confirm, “I’m still picking you up at 3,” then no, don’t do that. Remember when we didn’t have to confirm? There is a time and place for this, for all technology.

BU Today: This latest study, how do you think people will react to it?

Renstrom: This isn’t new. How many studies have to come out to say that cured meat is terrible and is carcinogenic. People are like, “Oh, don’t tell me what to eat. Or when to be on my phone.” This gets real contentious, real fast because telling people what’s good for them is hard.

BU Today: I can understand that—but in this case we’re not telling adults to stop being on their phones. We’re saying help get your kids off their phones in classrooms, for their health and education.

Renstrom: Studies show kids’ brains, and their gray matter, are low when they are on screens. School is prime habit-forming time. You should not sit in class within view of the professor, laughing while they are talking about World War II. There is a social appropriateness that needs to be learned. Another habit that needs to be addressed is the misconception of multitasking. We are under this misconception we all can do it. And we can’t. You might think, I can listen to this lecture while my sister texts me. That is not supported by science or studies. It is literally derailing you. Your brain jumps off to another track and has to get back on. If you think you have not left that first track, you are wrong.

BU Today: So what next steps would you like to see?

Renstrom: I would like to see both schools and families be more assertive about this. But also to work together. If the parents are anti-smartphone policy, it doesn’t matter if the school is pro-policy. If there is a war between parents and schools, I am not sure much will happen. Some kind of intervention and restriction is better than just ripping it away from kids. The UNESCO study found it is actually even worse for university students. We are all coming at this problem from all different ways. Pouches or banned phones. Or nothing.

Explore Related Topics:

• Smartphones
• Share this story
• 26 Comments Add

Associate Vice President, Executive Editor, Editorial Department Twitter Profile

Doug Most is a lifelong journalist and author whose career has spanned newspapers and magazines up and down the East Coast, with stops in Washington, D.C., South Carolina, New Jersey, and Boston. He was named Journalist of the Year while at The Record in Bergen County, N.J., for his coverage of a tragic story about two teens charged with killing their newborn. After a stint at Boston Magazine , he worked for more than a decade at the Boston Globe in various roles, including magazine editor and deputy managing editor/special projects. His 2014 nonfiction book, The Race Underground , tells the story of the birth of subways in America and was made into a PBS/American Experience documentary. He has a BA in political communication from George Washington University. Profile

Comments & Discussion

Boston University moderates comments to facilitate an informed, substantive, civil conversation. Abusive, profane, self-promotional, misleading, incoherent or off-topic comments will be rejected. Moderators are staffed during regular business hours (EST) and can only accept comments written in English. Statistics or facts must include a citation or a link to the citation.

There are 26 comments on Why Schools Should Ban Cell Phones in the Classroom—and Why Parents Have to Help

i found this very helpful with my research

It was ok, but i will say i enjoyed learning more about why we should not have cell phones.

It was a great research, helped me a lot.

I think that this was helpful, but there is an ongoing question at my school, which is, though phones may be negative to health and knowledge and they’re a distraction what happens if there was a shooting or a fire or a dangourus weather event and you don’t have a phone to tell your parents or guardians at home if you are alright? (Reply answer if have one)

Yeah they would get an amber alert

well, the school has the technology that can help communicate that to the parents, and if that were to happen, I guess that’s why there’s always a cell phone in the classrooms those old-time ones, but I feel it would not be okay in case of a shooting since you have to go silence, and on the moment of fire or weather everything happens so fast in the moment.

Yeah, that’s exactly why they have those supplies or items in the classroom, to alert parents. Kids don’t need to use their phones for that.

In schools all teachers have cell phones. So one way or the other the messages would get out to the parents as needed. If a student gets on the cell phone to inform the parent about the activity, that’s taken place it could cause panic. School staffs are informed as to how to handle such situations.. what I have seen take place in classes are students who are texting each other either in the same room or in another classroom during the school time. Many students spend time on YouTube and not concentrating what’s going on in the classroom.

Teachers have communication with all parents and it also has amber alerts

You just give the kids watches to call there parents or guardians on.

I think that this was helpful, but there is an ongoing question at my school, which is, though phones may be negative to health and knowledge and they’re a distraction what happens if there is a shooting or a fire or a dangerous weather event and you don’t have a phone to tell your parents or guardians at home if you are alright?

I am writing a paper and this is very helpful thank you.

I am writing a paper and this is very helpful but it is true what if our mom or dad have to contact us we need phones!

this helped me with my school project about whether cell phones should be banned in school. I think yes but the class is saying no. I think it’s because I was raised without a phone so I know how to survive and contact my parents without a phone. but anyway, this helped me with my essay! thank you!

I don’t think phones should be allowed in school, and this is perfect backup! Thank you Doug

great infromation for debate

Thanks, this helped a lot I’m working on an essay and this has been really helpful.by the way, some people may think, but what if i need to call my mom/dad/guardian. but the real thing is, there is a high chance that there will be a telephone near you. or if it’s something that only you want them to know,go ahead and ask your teacher if you can go to the office.

I mean it could also depend on the student, like for example let’s say that i’m a student inside the school, if I used my phone and I got off it, for me it would instant focus, but for others students they might take longer or the same time as me, it all really depends if the student is tend to be responsible with their time trying to focus so I would say that this claim is not true.

I think that is article was very good. I’m currently writing and essay and I have used this for most of my evidence so far. I personally think that cellphones should be banned from the classroom because the school will get the information that your parents need out to them so you don’t have to cause a panic because you don’t know if your parents know what is going on at your school or not. It will just be better because then we wouldn’t have as many distractions in the classrooms as we do now because kids are always getting caught on their phones and they are constantly being sent down to the office and it takes time to get the class back on track. I personally agree with Doug that cellphones should be banned in the classrooms.

It’s striking to realize that the reason some parents feel the need to advocate for phone usage in school is due to concerns about a potential school shooting. While parents may be more informed about the harmful effects of smartphones in a learning environment, they take preference for the safety of their child in a hypothetical situation. It’s a hard debate because while the safety of their children is important, the drastic effects of students needing 20 minutes to refocus is significantly impacting their ability to learn in their classes. I find it very saddening that this is what our world has come to – prioritizing safety for a school shooting over academic performance, because it is no longer so unusual for a school to experience that type of tragedy.

I liked the comment, “Addiction to phones is kind of like second-hand smoking. If you’re young and people around you are using it, you are going to want it too,” because I experienced this phenomenon in my early middle school years, with the invention of the first iPhone. All of a sudden an invention that was broadcasted on the news became an essential for the other students in my middle school class, to the point where I became one of the only students without one. Then, I finally succumbed to the pressure, and begged my parents for an iPhone as I felt extremely left out. It’s frustrating to accept that this pressure is affecting children now younger and younger by the year, with even six year old children I babysit owning their own iPhone/iPad.

I also think that with the prevalence of child phone usage significantly increases parental anxiety, particularly for those parents who are already overbearing to start. Giving parents the ability to contact their child at any given time is harmful, and it can create a dependence on either side. It’s ironic given the fact that parents push their children to focus and succeed in their classes, yet harass them all day about minuscule things that could’ve been addressed later that day. So yes, parents need to stop calling their kids during the day.

this helped me with my school project, very reliable source.

I think that this talked more about why parents should help more than why cell phones should be banned.

I think the teachers or guardians will allow you to contact someone but I think after the shooting or crisis they will contact your parents or guardian from the office or person in charge

I agree, I’m 13 and I honestly could live without a phone

i also agree but parents need to reach their kids somehow if something happens in school

I’m also 13

Post a comment. Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Latest from BU Today

Class of 2024: songs that remind you of your last four years at boston university, cloud computing platform cloudweaver wins at spring 2024 spark demo day, boston teens pitch biotech concepts to bu “investors” at biological design center’s stem pathways event, the weekender: may 9 to 12, dean sandro galea leaving bu’s school of public health for washu opportunity, meet the 2024 john s. perkins award winners, comm ave runway: may edition, stitching together the past, two bu faculty honored with outstanding teaching awards, advice to the class of 2024: “say thank you”, school of visual arts annual bfa thesis exhibitions celebrate works by 33 bfa seniors, q&a: why are so many people leaving massachusetts, killers of the flower moon author, and bu alum, david grann will be bu’s 151st commencement speaker, photos of the month: a look back at april at bu, bu track and field teams compete at 2024 patriot league outdoor championships this weekend, 22 charles river campus faculty promoted to full professor, this year’s commencement speaker we’ll find out thursday morning, the weekender: may 2 to 5, how to have ‘the talk’: what i’ve learned about discussing sex, university, part-time faculty tentatively agree to new four-year contract.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

current events conversation

What Students Are Saying About School Cellphone Bans

Policies restricting phone use in schools are trending. We asked students if they thought such rules were a good idea.

By The Learning Network

Nearly one in four countries has laws or policies banning or restricting student cellphone use in schools . Proponents say no-phone rules reduce student distractions and bullying. Critics say the bans could hinder student self-direction and critical thinking.

We asked teenagers what they thought: Should schools ban cellphones?

The reactions were mixed. Many students brought up the same reasons they wanted access to their phones during the day: to listen to music, to contact their parents and even for schoolwork. But many recognized the need for some boundaries around phone use, with several supporting an outright ban. Read their arguments below.

Thank you to everyone who participated in the conversation on our writing prompts this week, including students from Midtown High School in Atlanta ; Parkway South High School in Manchester, Mo. ; and Miami Country Day School in Miami, Fla .

Please note: Student comments have been lightly edited for length, but otherwise appear as they were originally submitted.

No phones in school? We’re all for it, some students said.

Recently, I stopped bringing my phone to school. I only had an Apple Watch to listen to music and message my family. This change has allowed me to focus more during my classes and I’ve come up with more creative ideas due to this change. To put it simply, while the banning of cellphones may take some time to fully get used to, it’s a necessity for all schools in order for their students to concentrate and participate more quickly. One of the main problems with cellphone usage in class is that students aren’t talking with one another. Instead, everyone is talking AT each other, because they’re always on their phones messaging or checking social media. With the banning of phones however, students can engage with one another without the use of technology, which can be described as “authentic,” or more personal.

— Leo, Midtown High School

I think that schools should ban cellphones because most problems in school typically circle back to cellphones. Students will take videos or photos of others during school and this gets uploaded to social media. They usually get bullied and aren’t comfortable being posted on social media. Kids are also always on their phones during class. Their grades start to go down and then they fail. All of these problems can be avoided if they just ban phones in school.

— Mylea, CNY

The phrase “eyes glued to the screen” is an understatement to how little students converse with one another due to something “more important” on their phone. It’s increasingly alarming and concerning that I have seen on many occasions a whole group of people sitting at a table, pressing away or scrolling on their phones, and all I hear is silence. Consequently, this adds to the overarching problem of mental health issues because of how attached students are to devices. They lose the skill of communication and therefore are not able to converse very well in the long-term.

— Alex, Manchester

I believe that we are in a weird time, where cellphone usage is so normalized, that being asked to put it away makes people mad. While I understand the annoyance with having your property confiscated, I do think it’s for the better of students. We are at a point where time and time again it’s been proven by ourselves that we have absolutely no self control and are unable to stay off phones when asked. I do think checking cameras and driving around during lunch is an extreme; but it may be necessary. If you need phones to do online classes, then use a computer. If older generations were able to make it 8 hours without checking an Instagram story, then so can we.

— emmies, midtown highschool

In my school, many students amble around campus, staring down at their phones, completely oblivious to the world around them. I have witnessed some of my peers bump into walls or into other students as they are entranced in their small electronic devices. The attention that students pay to their phones takes away from socializing, interacting, and learning throughout the school day. This has had a profound negative impact on their grades that is oftentimes irreversible. For example, in middle school, cellphone use was not permitted during the school day. Many of my peers were more engaged in their classes and thus had higher grades. When we got to high school, the rules changed and phones were allowed. Some of my same peers that had good grades, are now on academic probation for failing classes. Although this could be a result of many different factors, the main change from middle school to high school was phone usage.

Phones also interfere with quality social interactions. I noticed that in middle school, many students engaged more with one another, had quality conversations, and strong friendships. Some of these same students now have very few friends and engage with electronics more than people. It is important to keep in mind that this is the reality of some students, but not all. Many of my current friends in school have not let the electronic device world have such an intense impact on their lives, and therefore are very social and are doing fantastic academically.

— Arabella, Miami Country Day School/Miami Florida

Others recognized the need for some boundaries around phone use, but thought an outright ban went too far.

Cellphones should be limited, not banned, in schools but with a couple of key qualifications. During class time, I think there should be no phones allowed from when the bell rings to start the class to when the bell rings to end the class. There should be breaks in the middle of the class, as the teacher sees fit, such as how we do in some of my classes, to take a quick break and check notifications before getting back into it. This would hopefully influence students to use dedicated class time wisely and be more “checked in” so to speak while not missing out on possible crucial messages or emergencies that may come through during that class. However, if a student is in a free period, they should be able to use their phone. It is up to the student to use their time wisely outside of class to get their work done and allowing the student to have some independence in making a responsible choice as a young adult in the making is a positive.

— Jack, Ames, Iowa

An alternative to the use of phones in school is to heavily regulate media in the range of school, meaning not just banning social media under the school network but also having students log on to an application during school which only allows access to important needs for phones like contacting parents or educational apps, in case of a student’s laptop being dead, broken or forgotten at home. In the grand scheme of things, I believe removing a student’s phone would also cause more of a problem in the situation of an emergency because they will not be able to contact their parents. Banning them is definitely not necessary but a regulation on cell phones would be beneficial to students as a whole.

— Jaden, Sun Valley, CA

In every class, you’ll see people with their cellphone out, or laying on their desk next to them, just within reach for when it buzzes. Every time this buzz distracts the student, it takes their brain at least five seconds to focus back on the task they were working on, decreasing productivity and increasing errors. I believe that teachers should confiscate students’ phones during class, and have rules for when this confiscation is violated. However, if said class is a free period, the students could keep their phones out, to be able to communicate with their parents and keep up with their extracurriculars. Many parents should support their child focusing on school, and will be fine with them only responding in 90 minute intervals in between classes.

— Katya, Midtown High School

For me, the best policy for students is for teachers to take phones during classes and instructional time and give them back after class. I know some students are against having their phones taken during class, but I do think it increases focus. During free periods and lunch, I think it is important for students to have time to be there on their phones because it provides a time to relax and enjoy something not school-related.

— Ginny, J.R. Masterman Philadelphia

I use my phone as another device for my school work. For example, if I’m given a piece of writing to work on, I’ll have the assignment and instructions pulled up on my phone while I complete the work on my iPad. I understand the frustration teachers may have when they’re talking and multiple students are scrolling on TikTok or using Snapchat while learning a lesson. This can affect their work and education, however banning phones is excessive. If it’s become a problem or a setback in classes, setting a rule to make sure the phone stays in a bag can just may be an option. Otherwise it’s not easy for me to communicate among my parents, friends, or even boss.

— Sofia, Glenbard West High School

Some wanted unrestricted access to their phones during the day for a variety of reasons.

As a student who was born and raised in Ethiopia, we weren’t allowed to have a cellphone at all. It did have advantages like socializing, we ate lunch together and hung out together. We also did a lot of activities together but it didn’t do any good in my academics. Most parents and teachers worry that having a phone would be a distraction from having a better grade but for me, I had higher grades when I had my phone compared to my old grade when I didn’t have my phone. Although it might be distracting in class, it helped me a lot by using it for research or listening to music when I wanted to study. It also helped me to contact my parents whenever I wanted. I would not welcome a ban in my school because I learn with my phone since I work better when I research and take notes and most of my teachers just lecture.

— Yohanan, Vancouver, WA

When cellphones/messaging devices started out they were a hit. They gave some brief release for students that need a second to rest so they can focus better. This is still true today. I have to go through 5 periods without a break where I am either sitting at a desk or walking to class. Those few moments with my phone help a lot. Our attention spans are not infinite. Cellphones in schools also give me a connection to my home and parents when I need to talk to them. There has never been a student that has done poorly on a test and didn’t want to vent it out to someone. For me, this is my mom and dad. They are always good at calming me down and stopping me from spiraling. Without cellphones, I would never have that person close to help me.

— Tyson, Fountain Valley

There have been a few times this year when I’ve had to text my parents to come pick me up because I’ve been sick and needed to go home. The ease with which I was able to contact them would no longer exist if a phone ban was implemented, as not every teacher allows students free access to the office without a “valid” reason (and sickness isn’t always seen as such). Even if I were able to go to the office to reach my parents, the time this process took would be significantly longer. Thus, cellphone bans are simply too extreme for most schools, and districts should instead consider other forms of restriction to have the benefits of bans, without the consequences.

— Charlotte, Midtown High School

And a few thought students, rather than teachers or the school, should bear the burden for using their phones responsibly.

I don’t think schools should ban cellphones and I would not welcome a cellphone ban in my school. I think as high school students we need to be responsible for our own actions. If you are a student and you are on your phone in your class you need to accept the consequences that your grades and understanding of the material will suffer. Students need to learn how to pay attention in class without getting on their phones. In college no teachers are going to be getting them in trouble for being on their phones. How will they teach themselves the self control to not be on your phone in class?

— Kathryn, Maury High School

I have mixed emotions on this topic. I feel that high schoolers should be held responsible for their own education. If they choose to not pay attention in class and not take advantage of all the tools that their teachers are giving them, then they should do whatever they want. As 15-year-olds and up, high school teachers should not be held responsible for 100+ students learning. The student themselves needs to be responsible for their own learning and their own grades.

— Emily, Baker High School

At least one student said working to address the root causes of teenage “cellphone addiction” might be a better approach.

Many students are drawn to scrolling through social media as a coping mechanism or an escape from the fact that they struggle with school or have been otherwise discouraged from learning and connecting with their peers. While these are not excuses for being distracted or disrespectful, working to address the root causes of the widespread cellphone addiction might be more helpful long-term than a cellphone ban. While the ban seems to be an effective short term solution for the school day, it might harm students when they go to college or find themselves in a world where there are no strict bans and they must self-regulate their screen time. Working to address these root causes as well as fostering responsibility would help young people feel more connected to the world around them and better prepare them for the world.

— Abigail, Maury High School- Norfolk, VA

In the end, some saw the appeal of a ban but worried it would “only intensify” students’ negative attitudes toward school.

I understand why a ban might seem appealing to certain teachers and administrators, however, I also believe that it would be more harmful than beneficial in the long run. Many students already have negative attitudes toward school: a major cause of stress and dread for some. I strongly feel a cellphone ban would only intensify these negative attitudes towards school as a whole. It wouldn’t motivate students to attend, and would almost villainize the school itself. It just isn’t worth it. Speaking from experiences at my school and things that I’ve noticed, I observe that the majority of students do a good job staying off their phones and paying attention during class. Our school doesn’t strongly restrict phones, and it has never really been a problem. Additionally, I feel that a ban on cellphones would only do so much. If a student really wants to be on their phone, they will find a way to do so regardless of whatever ban may or may not be in place.

— Natalie, Glen Ellyn, IL

Learn more about Current Events Conversation here and find all of our posts in this column .

Banning mobile phones in schools: beneficial or risky? Here’s what the evidence says

Distinguished Research Professor, Monash University

Disclosure statement

Neil Selwyn receives research funding from the Australian Research Council, Australian Government Office of Learning and Teaching (OLT), Australian Communications Consumer Action Network & AuDA Foundation.

Monash University provides funding as a founding partner of The Conversation AU.

View all partners

• Bahasa Indonesia

Victorian education minister James Merlino’s announcement mobile phones will be banned for all students at state primary and secondary schools is certainly a bold move.

The policy has been justified as a direct response to mounting levels of cyberbullying, concerns over distractions and schools struggling with discipline relating to students’ misuse of phones.

Students will have to switch off their phones and store them in lockers from the start of the school day until the final bell. In case of an emergency, parents or guardians can reach their child by calling the school.

The minister said in a statement :

The only exceptions to the ban will be where students use phones to monitor health conditions, or where teachers instruct students to bring their phone for a particular classroom activity.

Whether to allow student use of mobile phones in school is certainly a hot topic in education. The Victorian announcement follows a French government ban on mobiles in school in 2018. Debates on the issue are also taking place in Denmark , Sweden and the United Kingdom .

There is considerable public support for banning mobiles. In our recently conducted survey of more than 2,000 Australian adults, nearly 80% supported a ban on mobile phones in classrooms. Just under one-third supported an outright ban from schools altogether.

Support for a classroom ban was remarkably consistent across different demographics, including political affiliation and age group.

But while banning phones from classrooms, and from school altogether, might seem sensible, there are number of reasons to be cautious. It’s clear we need to carefully consider how we want to make use of digital devices being brought into schools. But previous experience, such as in New York, suggests a blanket ban might introduce even more problems.

And the little research evidence that addresses the issue is mixed.

What’s the evidence?

Reports of cyberbullying have clearly gone up among school-aged children and young people over the past ten years, but the nature and precedents of cyberbullying are complex.

Research suggests there is a large overlap between cyberbullying and traditional forms of bullying, which wouldn’t then follow that digital devices are somehow causing these behaviours.

Cyberbullying also often takes place outside school hours and premises. There is a danger banning phones from classrooms might distract education staff from having to continue with efforts to address the more immediate causes of cyberbullying.

Read more: Teenagers need our support, not criticism, as they navigate life online

There is also a growing literature exploring the links between digital devices and classroom distractions. The presence of phones in the classroom is certainly found to be a source of multi-tasking among students of all ages – some of which can be educationally relevant and much of which might not.

But the impact of these off-task behaviours on student learning outcomes is difficult to determine. A review of 132 academic studies concluded, it is

difficult to determine directions and mechanisms of the causal relations between mobile phone multitasking and academic performance.

There is also a strong sense from classroom research that issues of distraction apply equally to laptops , iPads and other digital devices.

All told, the sense from academic literature is that the realities of smartphone use in classrooms are complex and decidedly messy. Our own research into how smartphones are being used in Victorian classrooms highlighted the difficulties teachers face in policing student use (what some teachers described as requiring “five minutes of firefighting” at the beginning of every lesson).

Despite this, we also found instances of students using smartphones for a range of beneficial purposes – from impromptu information seeking to live-streaming lessons for sick classmates.

Read more: Schools are asking students to bring digital devices to class, but are they actually being used?

These benefits are also reflected in classroom studies elsewhere in the world. Research from Stanford University has demonstrated , for instance, that with proper support and preparation, teachers in even the most challenging schools can “build on the ways students already use technology outside of school to help them learn in the classroom”.

There is now a whole academic field known as “ m-Learning ” where researchers have explored the pedagogical and learning advantages of using mobile devices (including phones) in lessons.

But what about a blanket ban from school altogether? Experience from elsewhere suggests enforcing a mobile ban in schools may not be as easy as it sounds.

What we can learn from others

The New South Wales government announced a review into the benefits and risks of mobile phone use in schools in June 2018, led by child psychologist Michael Carr-Gregg. At the review’s completion, the government said it would only ban mobile phones from the state’s primary schools, leaving secondary schools free to make their own choice.

We recognise that technology plays an important and increasing role as students progress through their education […] We want to give secondary schools the flexibility to balance the benefits and risks of technology in the way that best supports their students.

Perhaps the most pertinent example is the ban enforced in New York City from 2006, that was eventually lifted in 2015.

The reasons given for this reversal highlighted several of the concerns the new ban in Victoria will likely face. They include practical difficulties of enforcing a ban in the classroom being exacerbated by banning of phone use during break times and lunchtimes.

First, it was clear the New York ban was being inconsistently enforced by schools – with better resourced schools in more affluent areas more likely to bend the rules and permit student use. In contrast, schools in lower-income areas with metal detectors were more likely to be rigidly enforcing the ban.

Other motivations for lifting the ban were concerns over student safety such as the need for students to contact family members during break times and lunchtimes. Families were also incurring costs to store phones securely outside of the school. There was also a recognition teachers should be trusted to exercise their professional judgement as to how they could be making good educational use of devices in their lessons.

Read more: Should mobile phones be banned in schools? We asked five experts

At the same time, it was reckoned government resources were better directed toward supporting students to learn how to use technology responsibly through cyber-safety lessons.

All these reasons are as relevant now to Victorian schools as they were to New York City schools in 2015. The use (and non-use) of mobile phones in schools is certainly an issue we need to have a proper conversation about. But it might not be as clear-cut as the recent policy announcements suggest.

• Mobile phones
• technology in schools
• mobile phone ban

Faculty of Law - Academic Appointment Opportunities

Events and Communications Coordinator

Assistant Editor - 1 year cadetship

Executive Dean, Faculty of Health

Lecturer/Senior Lecturer, Earth System Science (School of Science)

Home — Essay Samples — Information Science and Technology — Cell Phones — Why Cell Phones Should Not Be Allowed In Schools

Why Cell Phones Should not Be Allowed in Schools

• Categories: Cell Phones Technology in Education

About this sample

Words: 429 |

Published: Dec 16, 2021

Words: 429 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Works Cited:

• Carter, E. (2017). The good and bad of using artist’s music in advertising. The Gardner News. Retrieved from https://www.thegardnernews.com/story/opinion/columns/2017/04/14/good-and-bad-of-using-artists-music-in-advertising/121266090/
• McCandles, D. (2016). How much do musicians earn online? [Data file]. Retrieved from https://www.informationisbeautiful.net/visualizations/how-much-do-music-artists-earn-online-2015-remix/
• Moore, R. (2018). The pros and cons of using popular music in your marketing. The Balance Small Business. Retrieved from https://www.thebalancesmb.com/using-popular-music-in-marketing-3859287
• O'Hagan, S. (2019). The music industry must fight exploitation of artists by brands. The Guardian.
• Ramsay, J. (2018). The pros and cons of music in advertising. Ad Age.
• Reilly, K. (2018). Here’s why music copyright is so complicated. Fortune.
• Sisario, B. (2021). Taylor Swift is rerecording her old albums. Here’s what she’s reclaiming. The New York Times.
• Zollo, P. (2019). What does it mean when an artist’s music is used in a commercial? Billboard.

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Verified writer

• Expert in: Information Science and Technology

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

2 pages / 694 words

2 pages / 1018 words

3 pages / 1425 words

3 pages / 1378 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Cell Phones

The evolution of cell phones has been one of the most remarkable technological advancements of the modern era. From their humble beginnings as large, bulky devices with limited capabilities to the sleek, multifunctional [...]

During the 1990s, cell phones began to emerge into the world. They were big boxes that were similar to the cell phone line which is used in modern day. They had huge antennas and were heavy for people to carry around. This was [...]

In today's digital age, cell phones have become an integral part of our daily lives, including in the classroom setting. The debate over whether cell phones should be allowed in schools has been ongoing, with proponents arguing [...]

A cell phone is one of the devices mostly used according to the meta-analysis statistic taken. Approximately, 80 percent of the world population uses a cell phone in various aspects such as communication which is the main core. [...]

Cell Phones should be Included in the school experience because the cell phone is an extremely powerful tool; along with the purpose of school being to prepare the newest generation for the future, It is the school’s job to [...]

Cell phones first appeared in the world one day in the 90s. It was a bulky box very similar to the regular phone line we use today. It has equally large antennas and is heavy and cumbersome to carry. It was just the beginning. [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

Why School Age Kids Should or Should Not Have Cell Phones Essay

Modern technology has allowed people to communicate instantly and resolve many tasks that were difficult before within seconds. However, with these benefits, a challenge has emerged, since smartphones, video games, and the Internet makes people feel addicted to technology, as Miller reports. One solution would be to ban smartphones by children, but this could cause other issues. Children should be allowed to have cellphones to ensure their safety and security and help them adapt to modern technology.

The reasoning behind not allowing children to have smartphones is the fear that they would develop an addiction. According to Miller, in one survey, “half of the teenagers said they “feel” they’re addicted to their mobile device.” This is alarming, but it is necessary to acknowledge that children and adults alike are surrounded by technology. Hence, by not allowing children to use cell phones, caregivers deprive them of experiences they need to function in modern society. Moreover, smartphones allow them to make phone calls and message others, which is vital for child security and safety. With cell phones, children can contact their parents in case of emergency. Hence, it is best to ensure that they have access to cell phones but that their use is regulated. For example, children should not be allowed to use smartphones during studying or several hours before sleep. Overall, children should have cellphones because the benefits outweigh the potential danger.

Miller, Caroline. “Is Internet Addiction Real?” Child Mind Institute , Web.

• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2022, June 22). Why School Age Kids Should or Should Not Have Cell Phones. https://ivypanda.com/essays/why-school-age-kids-should-or-should-not-have-cell-phones/

"Why School Age Kids Should or Should Not Have Cell Phones." IvyPanda , 22 June 2022, ivypanda.com/essays/why-school-age-kids-should-or-should-not-have-cell-phones/.

IvyPanda . (2022) 'Why School Age Kids Should or Should Not Have Cell Phones'. 22 June.

IvyPanda . 2022. "Why School Age Kids Should or Should Not Have Cell Phones." June 22, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/why-school-age-kids-should-or-should-not-have-cell-phones/.

1. IvyPanda . "Why School Age Kids Should or Should Not Have Cell Phones." June 22, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/why-school-age-kids-should-or-should-not-have-cell-phones/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Why School Age Kids Should or Should Not Have Cell Phones." June 22, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/why-school-age-kids-should-or-should-not-have-cell-phones/.

• The Cellphone: The History and Technology of the Gadget that Changed the World
• Cellphones as an Education Tool
• Safe Driving and Use of Cellphones in Cars
• Impact of Social Darwinism on the Perception of Human Disabilities
• Analysis of “Inside Toyland” by Christine Williams
• The Top Three Benefits to Social Responsibility
• Relation Between Medical Sociology and Church
• Transition Experiences of First-Generation Latino Veterans

Weighing the Costs and Benefits of Cellphones in Schools

• Posted August 10, 2022
• By Emily Boudreau
• K-12 System Leadership
• Teachers and Teaching
• Technology and Media

Typically, the discussion around cellphones in school — whether they are learning tools or distractions — has revolved around their impact on measures of academic success like test scores or grades. But in his research, Ed School alum Dylan Lukes looks at other outcomes policymakers should be considering.

“I’m hoping to move beyond thinking about test scores and consider the potential importance of other outcomes like discipline and school culture which may factor into student wellbeing,” says Lukes, Ph.D.’22.

As schools are gearing up for the fall, with some considering new and amended policies on the use of cellphones in class, Luke gets into his findings — including how the New York City Department of Education’s (NYCDOE) recently reversed cellphone ban impacted student suspensions and school culture — and gives his thoughts on what schools and districts should be considering when creating policies around technology moving forward. 

Why are cellphones in schools such a contested topic among educators, parents, and students? The motivation for many of these policies comes from a desire to limit distractions. If you think about it, from a school’s perspective, if a cellphone ban can improve student learning, that’s a great low-cost intervention with a favorable benefit-cost ratio. However, from a parent’s perspective, the calculus is a bit different, and the cost of not being able to get a hold of their kid(s) may outweigh any potential benefit accrued from the ban. 

How have cellphone policies evolved over the years? Over the past several decades, many large urban school districts have intermittently experimented with cellphone bans. However, most cellphone bans have been repealed due to their unpopularity with parents and students and concerns over equity [ as low income students often have mobile-only access to the internet ]. In March 2015, the NYCDOE lifted their longstanding districtwide cellphone ban and provided schools with significant discretion in designing and implementing school-level policies governing student cellphone use — and that shift is what I explore in my research.

Most research around cellphone use in schools looks at the impact on test scores, reaction time, and the ability to focus. You look instead at two areas: discipline and a sense of safety.  The existing studies provide evidence that allowing phones in the classroom negatively impacts test scores and long-term learning retention. There are some correlational studies that suggest negative relationships between off-task device use and student achievement. Further, in psychology, research on multitasking generally finds negative effects on learning and task completion and, more generally, research has shown that cellphones distract and negatively impact reaction times, performance, enjoyment of focal tasks, and cognitive capacity.

In my research, my thinking was that as schools consider removal of bans or enforcement, they should also consider often overlooked dimensions of school culture that could play a role in educational productivity and student wellbeing. That is not to say academic achievement is not important — it is — but there are other potentially important inputs that contribute to educational productivity such as school discipline and culture.  

Why? From a disciplinary standpoint, if the school has a cellphone ban and there are students breaking that cellphone ban, it’s possible that over time — and I’ve seen this from survey responses from NYCDOE school principals and parent coordinators — at some point there can be some punitive measures if you’re caught breaking that ban. That’s one of the reasons I explore the impact on discipline and suspension — you could be using a cellphone which, yes, could be distracting, but even more negatively, have the student removed from school. That kind of impact on learning could be a net-negative, even when you consider that against the positive effects a cellphone ban may have on a student’s learning and their peers’ learning. 

I also think it’s important to look at other factors we don’t typically think about, like school culture, that might also have a big impact on learning. 

And what did you find? So just as a disclaimer, there might be policies I can’t control for that impact these outcomes. For example, in 2014, there was a new chancellor [in New York] who made changes to the discipline code. With that caveat, I do find that the ban removal positively impacted school discipline but had negative impacts on student perception of school culture across the dimensions of respect, student behavior, and school safety. It also had negative impacts on teacher perception of school safety. My findings suggest an improvement in educational productivity due to the NYCDOE’s ban removal. But there’s a tradeoff — a cost to school culture. 

What do you mean by safety? When it comes to emergencies, students likely feel safer having access to a phone. But the day-in and day-out component of school safety is how students use phones within school. This might include things like bullying, harassment, videotaping, and posting to social media. Those are reasons why having phones within schools could potentially be accelerators of negative student behavior. These safety measures which look at how safe students feel in classrooms, hallways, locker rooms, cafeterias, show a pretty negative jump after the ban has been lifted, which suggest to me that having a phone is at least interrupting a student’s ability to safely navigate those spaces.

So what should policymakers think about moving forward? This is just the tip of the iceberg. It would be interesting to look at how cellphones further contribute to school culture using more robust measures across time. And to be clear, I don’t think there’s anything inherently bad about cellphones but I do think it’s key to engage in a discussion around the tradeoffs of having them in schools and classrooms. There might be some interesting ways to balance the tradeoffs of their distractions and their benefits — something like having magnetized pouches and allowing students to take out cellphones under special circumstances (e.g., class activity, lunch). Some schools are already experimenting with these alternatives and there are some prime opportunities in this space to evaluate impacts of these polices on educational outcomes, including school discipline and school culture. 

The latest research, perspectives, and highlights from the Harvard Graduate School of Education

Related Articles

Lost in Translation

New comparative study from Ph.D. candidate Maya Alkateb-Chami finds strong correlation between low literacy outcomes for children and schools teaching in different language from home

Lessons Learned: Zid Mancenido, Ph.D.'22

Reshaping Teacher Licensure: Lessons from the Pandemic

Olivia Chi, Ed.M.'17, Ph.D.'20, discusses the ongoing efforts to ensure the quality and stability of the teaching workforce

• Entertainment
• Environment
• Information Science and Technology
• Social Issues

Home Essay Samples Information Science and Technology Cell Phones

Why Cell Phones Should Not Be Banned In Schools

*minimum deadline

Cite this Essay

To export a reference to this article please select a referencing style below

• Modern Technology
• Information Systems
• Microsoft Corporation
• Operating System
• Class Reflection

Related Essays

Need writing help?

You can always rely on us no matter what type of paper you need

*No hidden charges

100% Unique Essays

Absolutely Confidential

Money Back Guarantee

By clicking “Send Essay”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement. We will occasionally send you account related emails

You can also get a UNIQUE essay on this or any other topic

Thank you! We’ll contact you as soon as possible.

Should Cell Phones Be Allowed in School?

The number of mobile phone users in the world is expected to surpass 4.6 billion by 2019. With 237 million people in the United States currently using a mobile phone, it’s unlikely you will see a person without a device in hand. Researchers are studying the impact of spending too much time online, but there is a particular focus on young people and one polarizing question: should cell phones be allowed in school?

How Much Are Teens Using Cell Phones?

A recent Pew Research Center study found that 92 percent of American teens go online daily, and the percentage increases to 94 percent for teens with access to a smartphone. Nearly 75 percent of teens have access to a smartphone, and with open Wi-Fi networks in schools, libraries, and at home, staying connected is effortless.

For teens, being connected to the internet also means being connected to friends through various social media platforms and texting applications, such as WhatsApp. Educators are battling for attention as a student’s focus is directed to the recent notification that has lit up the student’s screen rather than the lesson at the front of the class. As a result, educators and researchers are asking if cell phones should be allowed in school and if a balance between tool and distraction is possible.

Digital Disruption

Research from Asurion found that Americans check their phones every 12 minutes, and with smartphones’ functioning as our alarm clocks, appointment keepers, and even house keys, it is easy to understand why we are so easily distracted.

Teachers already struggle with maintaining students’ attention during class, and with cell phones’ providing other ways to “escape” the classroom, many teachers feel that students’ grades have declined as a result. Research supports this theory and has shown that multitasking can be detrimental to one’s academic performance. Checking Facebook while listening to a class lecture can actually increase the amount of time that students will have to study at home since they did not absorb the content fully in the lecture.

The distraction provided by social media apps, such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, can potentially lead to signs of addiction as well—users may experience some form of agitation or anxiety when their phones aren’t around. There are even preliminary research findings that longer periods spent on digital devices correlate to decreased feelings of mental well-being.

It’s a strong case against the use of cell phones in school, and some schools have even implemented a zero-tolerance policy for the use of cell phones. There is not yet enough research, however, and educators, parents, and students are still divided on if cell phones should be allowed in school.

Additional Tools for Learning

Cell phones, tablets, and other devices open up a world to access facts and ideas. If a student needs to define a word, a search on the internet will quickly return the definition and thousands of other pages with related content. There are also hundreds of educational apps to help students keep on top of their schedules and coursework, such as Moodle, or even to help them learn new languages, such as Duolingo.

For students who have difficulty conceptualizing ideas or engaging with topics such as biology, the use of devices has made it easier for instructors to share educational videos. And these aren’t the hour-long, droning videos of the past. Short videos are proving to be more effective in capturing students’ attention and developing their understanding of the material. These videos are paired with active learning tools, such as answering a poll or completing a test, to help students comprehend the content.

When it comes to focusing on an assignment, allowing students to listen to music can be beneficial, as it helps quiet the unconscious attention system that shifts to whatever our senses determine to be significant. One student’s clicking a pen can be incredibly distracting for another student. Music can help remove these distractions and shift a student’s focus to the task at hand.

So, Should Cell Phones Be Allowed in School?

Research on the effect of teens’ cell phone use in school is still in its infancy. With the wildfire growth of students’ access to smartphones and other devices, educators are working hard to identify the right balance between function and fun. As smart home devices emerge and wearable technologies become further integrated into our lives, we may be at a point where we can’t separate ourselves—and students—from technology.

How Teachers Can Cultivate Their Leadership Abilities

A Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Teacher in 2018

Technologies and Tools to Bridge the Minority Gap in the Classroom

The Statistics Portal: Cell Phone Users Worldwide

The Statistics Portal: Cell Phone Users in the United States

Pew Research Center

National Center for Biotechnology Information, US National Library of Medicine

Oxford Learning

National Education Association

New York Post

Science News for Students

The Guardian

Request Information

Why Phones should not be Allowed in School

This essay will argue against the use of phones in school settings. It will discuss the potential distractions they cause, the impact on student learning and social interactions, and the challenges they pose for teachers. The piece will consider alternative policies for managing phone use in schools. PapersOwl showcases more free essays that are examples of Learning.

How it works

• 1 Introduction
• 2 Distraction from Learning
• 3 Disconnection from Social Relationships
• 4 Safety Concerns
• 5.1 References

Introduction

Did you know some students sneak their phones into class? According to Pew reachers they state, “About sixty-five percent of students sneak their phone into class and are distracted by it.” This explains why schools should ban cell phones. High school teacher Mr. Wolton states, “About 48 percent of students are addicted to their phones”.

If schools lift the ban of banning cell phones, students will disconnect from the real world and just be on their phones. By students using phones, they can cause major cyberbullying and would give the school a bad reputation.

Cell phones should not be allowed in class because they could cause distraction from learning. They could also lower the connection that they have with friends and students. They can lead to safety concerns.

Distraction from Learning

Why should schools allow the use of cell phones if they lead to distraction? Cell phones should not be allowed in schools because they lead to distraction from learning. According to Connie Fawcett, a High School teacher in Oklahoma states, “Students persistently use them a great deal for personal Via social media when they should be paying attention to what’s going on in class.”This is why schools should not lift the ban on cell phones. They are just a useful tool to distract students. Cell phones also get in the way of learning. If students use their cell phones, they will get distracted most of the time. Also, students shouldn’t bring them in their backpacks, too, because if their phones ring in class, other students get distracted. The National Library of Medicine states, “ The results revealed ringing cell phones in the class were the most commonly reported electronic external distractions for 68% of students, and 21% of them report being extremely distracted by the noise”.

Disconnection from Social Relationships

Should cell phones be allowed? Let’s discuss why they shouldn’t. First off, cell phones lower the connection that they have with friends and students. Pacific Standard states, “Cell phones or smartphones can lessen the quality of an in-person conversation, lowering the amount of empathy that is changed between friends”. This research shows that students tend to lose their connection with friends and family. For example, I have a friend, and I walk with her after school; she is always on her phone. She is either texting or watching videos on her phone, and it is always awkward when we are walking. Sometimes I stay behind and walk slowly so I don’t have to walk with her because she is always on her phone. Even when she talks to an old guy on our block, she’s always on her phone she gets distorted. She is a phone addict and knows I don’t talk to her anymore because she is always on her phone.

Safety Concerns

Lastly, when students use their phones, they might not know what they are doing on their phones, and teachers worry about their student’s safety. According to Honest, protons it states “We should allow students to use their phones in class if we don’t know what they might be doing or if they are doing bad things or associated with something bad in social media.” This little quote that I got from honest protons states that many teachers and parents worry about their kids’ safety concerns in social media, what they might do if they are involved in a gang, or what important stuff can lead to their safety concern or their health concerns.

According to a study, one in five teens in the US has received an unwanted sexual solicitation through their online activities due to unwanted contact with strangers. Most of the children hide these kinds of conversations from their parents. This is all due to access to the cell phone at an early age and might lead to sexual crime too.

Pew Research Center. 2022. Cell phones in schools: 65% of students sneak them into class. Retrieved from [URL]

Mr. Wolton. 2018. Personal communication on cell phone addiction statistics.

Connie Fawcett. 2015. High school teacher in Oklahoma. Personal communication on student cell phone usage in class.

Cite this page

Why Phones Should Not Be Allowed in School. (2023, Aug 05). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/why-phones-should-not-be-allowed-in-school/

"Why Phones Should Not Be Allowed in School." PapersOwl.com , 5 Aug 2023, https://papersowl.com/examples/why-phones-should-not-be-allowed-in-school/

PapersOwl.com. (2023). Why Phones Should Not Be Allowed in School . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/why-phones-should-not-be-allowed-in-school/ [Accessed: 10 May. 2024]

"Why Phones Should Not Be Allowed in School." PapersOwl.com, Aug 05, 2023. Accessed May 10, 2024. https://papersowl.com/examples/why-phones-should-not-be-allowed-in-school/

"Why Phones Should Not Be Allowed in School," PapersOwl.com , 05-Aug-2023. [Online]. Available: https://papersowl.com/examples/why-phones-should-not-be-allowed-in-school/. [Accessed: 10-May-2024]

PapersOwl.com. (2023). Why Phones Should Not Be Allowed in School . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/why-phones-should-not-be-allowed-in-school/ [Accessed: 10-May-2024]

Don't let plagiarism ruin your grade

Hire a writer to get a unique paper crafted to your needs.

Our writers will help you fix any mistakes and get an A+!

Please check your inbox.

You can order an original essay written according to your instructions.

Trusted by over 1 million students worldwide

1. Tell Us Your Requirements

2. Pick your perfect writer

3. Get Your Paper and Pay

Hi! I'm Amy, your personal assistant!

Don't know where to start? Give me your paper requirements and I connect you to an academic expert.

short deadlines

100% Plagiarism-Free

Certified writers

Persuasive Essay: Should Cell Phones Be Allowed in Schools

Banning cell phones in school? Allowing students to use their cellphones in the classroom is 

a controversial topic. But students have already found ways of using cell phones in school for academic purposes. After all, allowing cell phone usage can help students during the day by learning in a way they are comfortable, keeping in contact with their parents, and devices provide easy access to information. I do not agree with the cell phone ban!

First of all, allowing cell phone usage lets students learn in a way where they're comfortable.  

Cell phones are like a tool to students these days, it helps them in many ways and it makes them feel comfortable and learn better.  According to the text, “Smartphones are young-person intuitive.  More and more students know how to use them, and they are becoming the most used "tool" by teens "(The SHARE team, resilient educator). In addition, allowing students to use their cell phones keeps them in contact with their parents. And know there are phones in schools but parents feel safe to know that their children can reach them at any moment. Based on the text, "Contacting parents mediated by school sometimes takes time so one of the best options is if the student can contact them directly.  This is especially useful during medical emergencies.  There are also times where the parents need to get ahold of their child for some important reason or just to check up on them on why they are running late "(Todd VanDuzer, student-tutor). 

In fact, letting students use their phones in schools also lets them access information easier.  

Some students may find it hard to keep on top of all their assignmens and by giving them access to information on the internet they can learn more about the topic and help them be on top of their work.  As said in the text, "If smartphones are allowed in school, students will have easy access to more information and therefore will be more participative during the class discussion" (Todd VanDuzer, student-tutor).  Being able to search up facts in just a few clicks is one of the biggest advantages of using technology.

On the other hand, Cell phones in the classroom promote cheating.  There are many websites, online forums, and tutors available online.  Most of the websites require subscriptions.  These resources, allow students to ask a question about their homework and they will be provided the answer.  If a student is allowed to bring their cell phone, he will have access to submit his question and receive the answer.  As said in the text "As said before, kids are getting distracted and not paying attention, so when it comes to taking a test they have no idea what the answers are so many students will cheat and not even learn anything" (Amie Vitello, Middle Borough TV).

In conclusion, cell phones should not be banned from schools because they are used for academic purposes. They provide quick access to knowledge, and they are learning in a method that is comfortable for them, and they can maintain in touch with their parents. In the end mobile devices have their benefits. So, should we ban them?

Related Samples

• My High School Experience Essay Sample
• Kriska Scholarship Essay Example
• Use of Technology Essay Example
• My Goals To Become A Nurse (Essay Example)
• Gender in Education Essay Sample
• Essay Example about Thorium Nuclear Reactors
• Argumentative Essay: Cell Phones Should Not Be Allowed in School
• The Causes of College Stress Essay Example
• The Problems of Standardized Testing Persuasive Essay Example
• The Lesson Narration & POV Essay

Didn't find the perfect sample?

You can order a custom paper by our expert writers

Should you let your kids have a cellphone in school?

Do you let your kids take their cellphones to class? Does your school district even allow them? 

Digital device policies are all over the map in U.S. schools, with parents and teachers divided on whether to curb or outright ban such phone use on school grounds.

Some schools make the kids place phones in a locker. Others require them to be checked in at the front office. But some are OK having students keep them in a backpack or pocket, so long as they’re turned off. 

At some schools, the decision about whether to let a kid have a phone in class is up to individual teachers, who may be reluctant to assume the role of enforcer.

In fact, some teachers see the phones as an asset and actually incorporate phone use as part of their lessons. 

Yet another question surrounds what kids are allowed to do with phones during lunch or between classes. Can they text, call, play games or use other apps then?

In July, California passed a law that gives public and charter schools the authority to prohibit cellphone use in the classroom , except during emergencies or other special circumstances, such as when a doctor determines that a student needs a phone for health reasons.

The Forest Hills Public Schools, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, revised its policy recently so that students will not be allowed to carry or use cellphones during the school day. 

A similar edict is in place at Washington High School in Massillon, Ohio. 

A principal expressed his happiness on Twitter about his school's policy: “Looking forward to seeing faces, not cell phones/headphones this school year!” tweeted David Lautenschleger.

What doesn't seem to be in dispute is that screen-time addiction is a problem for young and old. Kids fixated on smartphone screens may merely be modeling the behavior of mom and dad. 

The case for allowing phones in class

Those who say cellphones should be permitted in schools often cite educational benefits. For example, kids might be making movies or studying photography through various apps, for instance.  

“Have a plan, not a ban," Liz Kline, vice president for education at Common Sense Education in the San Francisco Bay Area, told USA TODAY in 2018. 

Even those who favor cellphone use in the classroom acknowledge those times, however, when phones ought to be put away or even collected by teachers, no questions asked, namely during test time. The sad truth: Some students use phones to cheat.

Safety concerns are also often given as a reason to let kids have devices at school. When there’s an accident or tragic incident, the presence of phones lets parents get in touch with teachers and/or students.

For sure, there are times when parents may also try to text the youngsters under more routine circumstances if only to remind the kids to remind their teachers about something.

The case to kick phones out of class

The rationale against cellphones in schools is that excessive exposure to the devices will have a negative effect on school-aged kids – lowering grades, promoting cyberbullying and even increasing the likelihood of teenage anxiety, depression and suicide.

Kids can be sneaky, too. “When we’re asking these 12- to 13-year-olds to carry the phone and not be on them, we 100% know that’s not happening,” Delaney Ruston, a physician and director of the documentary “Screenagers: Growing Up in the Digital Age,” told USA TODAY in 2018.

Through her “ Away For The Day”  initiative, Ruston pointed to studies that show that when youngsters don’t have the freedom of accessing their phones during school hours, they’re more engaged socially and academically. 

Real-time translation: How technology will help kids not hear language differences

Ruston even dismissed the safety argument. She pointed to an NPR report in which security experts have said that letting a kid have a phone in the classroom during a lockdown makes them less safe, not more so. When students should be quiet, for example, a ringing or vibrating phone might alert an intruder where kids are hiding. Parents trying to reach youngsters in an emergency might jam communications and interfere with first responders. And the kids might miss instructions from the authorities.

Parents, what are your views on the topic? Email: [email protected]; Follow @edbaig on Twitter

Where Should Students Be Allowed to Use Cellphones? Here’s What Educators Say

• Share article

Corrected : A chart in a previous version of this story contained incorrect percentages for where educators say students should be allowed to use cellphones.

To ban or not to ban? This question has been front and center for many schools recently as they strategize how to address students’ ubiquitous use of cellphones.

With nearly 9 in 10 teens 13 and older possessing a smartphone , these devices have become a major source of distraction and disruption in schools, especially when students’ online arguments spill over into in-school arguments and physical fights.

And many educators and school support staff feel that students’ constant access to social media on their smartphones is harming their mental wellbeing and hurting their ability to learn. Some educators go so far to say that students are addicted to their devices.

Nearly a quarter of teachers, principals, and district leaders think that cellphones should be banned from school grounds, according to a recent nationwide survey conducted in September and October by the EdWeek Research Center.

But, overall, educators are divided on the issue.

“We should be learning to manage cellphones in the classroom. They are here to stay,” one educator said in the survey. “BUT they are the biggest distraction.”

Said another survey respondent: “We recently banned cellphones. Previously, they were allowed during passing time and at lunch. However, they had taken over instructional time. Students would get out their phones without thinking and teachers would have to spend as much time redirecting as they were teaching. That, or have a power struggle over confiscation.”

But schools face headwinds from students and parents—many of whom want to be able to reach their children throughout the day—when they try to restrict students’ access to cellphones during the school day.

And as the charts below show, in many cases there’s a yawning gap between what students are allowed to do and what educators think would be best for schools.

For example, nearly three-quarters of teachers, principals, and district leaders say that high school students in their schools and districts are allowed to use their phones during lunch, but only half believe that should be permitted.

The survey also found that a significantly larger share of teachers are in favor of banning cellphones on campus than district leaders. Principals were more in line with teachers than district leaders on that decision.

The following charts show where students are allowed to use cellphones on campus, where educators think phones should be permitted, and how teachers, principals, and district leaders differ on the issue of an all-out cellphone ban.

Data analysis for this article was provided by the EdWeek Research Center. Learn more about the center’s work.

Sign Up for The Savvy Principal

Edweek top school jobs.

Sign Up & Sign In

Home » Tips for Teachers » Why Cell Phones Should Be Allowed in Schools — 11 Reasons Based on 16 Research Studies

Why Cell Phones Should Be Allowed in Schools — 11 Reasons Based on 16 Research Studies

The dramatic rise in cell phone usage globally , including among younger, school-aged users , brings into focus the debate on why phones should be allowed in school.

Cell phones are a forbidden item in most classrooms. Many schools have policies against students taking their gadgets out of their backpacks during the day or even bringing them to school at all.

However, I think that cell phones can play a very beneficial role in a classroom, especially when used effectively. I’ve stretched the ‘rules’ in the past and let my students pull out their phones for various classroom lessons and activities, and I’m definitely glad I did!

Some also believe that allowing students to use phones in school teaches them responsible usage for later in life:

If we don’t let kids use cell phones in the classroom, how will they ever learn to use them responsibly in a workplace? Every adult I know uses their phone all day every day. Let’s prepare kids for the real world. — Matthew B. Courtney, Ed.D. (@mbcourtneyedd) August 7, 2022

In addition to keeping my students more engaged in learning, using the gadgets offered a whole host of other benefits, many of which I didn’t even think of until I saw them! I’d love to share my answers to the question “why should students be allowed to use cell phones in class” with you.

In this article, I’ll share:

Cell Phones in School — Teachers’ Thoughts

• Why Should Phones be Allowed in School

7 Ideas How Cell Phones Can Be Used Effectively in the Classroom

Digital etiquette for students in the classroom.

You can watch this video below. It contains a brief retelling of the article.

Many teachers and parents are on the fence about whether to let students have cell phones in school . More and more teachers are beginning to see the potential learning benefits mobile phones can offer to their students and are advocating for gadget use in the classroom. In this video, Sam from New EdTech Classroom Why we should allow students to use cell phones in schools.

Below are what some teachers have shared about using mobile phones in the classroom:

”We need to embrace these changes and instead of trying to separate that reality from an outdated vision of a classroom, we need to find a way to optimize the educational experience for the connected kids of the future. We can’t disconnect them from the world between the hours of 8am – 3pm everyday. Don’t be scared. You have to leave your comfort zone and take a risk. The same thing you ask your students to do. Take a risk and see what the future may look like and then change your teaching to ensure that the technology is used as a tool and not just a distraction.” —Tim Floyd, Education Awesomeness

“I’ve also seen the value that cell phones can bring to education. Students who might not have access to computers at home can type and submit essays on their phones. Students can quickly look up some information and verify its validity. Furthermore, students can also use their cell phones to collaborate with their peers.” —Christina, The Darling English Teacher

“When students have access to technology and social media, they have access to empowerment and leadership online. As educators, we need to empower our students to use technology for good. When students are given the chance to use their cellphones in class as a learning tool, we can teach them how to positively influence and impact other people online.” —Amanda, EDTech Endeavors

“When students have access to technology and social media, they have access to empowerment and leadership online. As educators, we need to empower our students to use technology for good. When students are given the chance to use their cellphones in class as a learning tool, we can teach them how to positively influence and impact other people online.” — A.J. Juliani , the Director of Technology & Innovation for Centennial School District

Why Should Phones be Allowed in School — 11 Reasons

There is a lot of debate about whether phones should be allowed in schools. While there are some cons to letting your students use cell phones in class, I feel that the benefits of using gadgets can outweigh these cons. As long as you have solid classroom management and set clear expectations for students using their mobile phones, I think you’ll find that there are many benefits  to letting your students use them.

Setting up a phone charging station, just as you may set up a tablet or Chromebook charging station in your classroom, can ensure your students’ gadgets are charged and ready when needed during instruction.

Many people wonder, “why should students be allowed to use cell phones in class?” In my opinion, some of the biggest benefits of allowing students to use their phones in school include:

1. Providing an Additional Tool for Learning

In today’s digital age, the ubiquity of mobile phones, especially among younger individuals, is undeniable. Most children receive their first phone around the age of 11-12 , making these devices a prevalent part of their daily lives even before they hit their teenage years. The integration of these phones in the classroom, thus, presents a unique opportunity for enhancing the learning experience.

When students have the freedom to use their mobile phones during lessons, they instantly gain a portal to a world of technology right at their fingertips. This is invaluable, particularly in educational settings where there might be a shortage of tablets or computers. Instead of waiting for their turn on limited school devices, students can directly tap into the vast reservoir of information available online via their phones. Here are some of the benefits:

• Powerful Research Tools: Mobile phones can be transformative tools for research. If a student encounters a concept they’re unfamiliar with or if a topic sparks their curiosity, they can swiftly dive into a deeper exploration online.
• Interactive Learning: Educators can capitalize on interactive elements by using phones for classroom polls, ensuring active engagement and participation from all students. It becomes an immediate feedback mechanism, gauging understanding and promoting discussions.
• Note-Taking and Collaboration: With the myriad of note-taking and word-processing apps available, students can seamlessly jot down their thoughts, answers, or even craft detailed essays. This not only promotes paperless classrooms but also allows for easy sharing and collaboration among peers.

In essence, by harnessing the potential of mobile phones, educators can cultivate dynamic, interactive, and resource-rich environments that cater to the needs of the modern student.

In the context of safety and the unpredictable nature of emergencies, the presence of cell phones with students becomes of paramount importance. Particularly, in the gravest and unfortunately increasingly prevalent scenarios like school shootings , a mobile phone can serve as a lifeline. During such incidents, when every second is crucial, students can use their phones to alert authorities, inform their parents about their safety, or even receive vital instructions from law enforcement.

Phones are already banned. The parents are worried about these bans because of the very high chance there is a school shooting and their child is unable to call for help. https://t.co/TxpJfrUgJn — Anosognosiogenesis (@pookleblinky) June 6, 2023

Schools, as places of learning, also bear the responsibility of ensuring the well-being of their students. Cell phones can be crucial in the subsequent scenarios:

• Unpredictable Events: In the unfortunate event of an unforeseen incident or crisis at school, having immediate access to a cell phone can make a significant difference. One of the primary advantages is the ability to swiftly contact parents or guardians. Whether it’s to inform them about an unexpected situation or to seek urgent assistance, being able to communicate directly can offer both the student and parent a measure of relief in stressful situations.
• Commuting Students: For students who commute alone or those who remain on school premises for extracurricular activities, a mobile phone serves as an essential tool to stay connected.
• Medical Emergencies: In situations where there might be a need for medical attention or other emergency services, the quick dialing capability of a phone can be life-saving. Without it, students may find themselves isolated and without the immediate resources to seek help.

While detractors may argue against the distractions phones might pose academically, the security and peace of mind they offer, especially in dire situations, make a compelling case for their presence in the school environment.

3. Improved Communication

In our rapidly evolving digital age, the line of communication between students and their educators is becoming increasingly streamlined thanks to the ubiquitous use of cell phones. Apart from maintaining connections with family and friends, students are harnessing the power of these devices to facilitate a more direct and immediate line of dialogue with their teachers. This virtual bridge enables students to:

• Promptly relay their feedback to the teachers
• Pose queries for immediate resolution
• Engage in constructive discussions, irrespective of the confines of school hours

Even when teachers find themselves swamped during the day, mobile communication ensures that students aren’t left hanging. Queries sent after school hours can be addressed at the teacher’s earliest convenience, eliminating the conventional wait time that could span till the next school day. The immediacy of this system enhances the overall learning experience.

Interestingly, a study from the School of Business highlighted another crucial dimension to this trend. Beyond the teacher-student dynamic, students are proactively forming educational bonds with their peers through their phones. They often initiate and manage class-based groups on various social platforms, allowing for an organized exchange of study materials and collaborative learning, devoid of any official oversight. Such initiatives underscore the instrumental role cell phones play in modern education, fostering a holistic and communal approach to learning.

4. Organization

In today’s digitally-driven world, cell phones have evolved beyond mere communication devices. They now function as personal assistants, packed with tools designed to enhance productivity and organization. For students, these devices can play a pivotal role in shaping their academic journey, thanks to an array of built-in features such as calendar apps, clocks, alarms, and reminders.

Here are the key features that can be beneficial for students:

• Calendar App: It can be an invaluable tool for students to plot out their academic calendar, inputting assignment due dates, exam schedules, and even extracurricular commitments. With reminders set up, students receive timely prompts, ensuring that no task is forgotten or left to the last minute.
• Alarms: They can be utilized not just to wake up for school but also to ensure punctuality for classes or study group meetings.
• Clock: This feature can assist in time management, allowing students to allocate specific blocks of time for focused study, breaks, or recreational activities.

By planning and visualizing their day or week, students can achieve a balance between academic and personal commitments. This underlines why phones should be allowed in school, as cell phones, often perceived as distractions, can actually be powerful organizational tools. When used wisely, they can significantly enhance a student’s ability to manage time, keep up with responsibilities, and maintain a balanced academic life.

5. Can Save Schools Money

The digital revolution has fundamentally transformed the education sector, offering avenues for cost-saving and enhanced accessibility.

Here’s how schools can leverage cell phones for economical and sustainable education:

• E-books and Online Materials: A significant advantage is the rise of e-books and online course materials. By allowing students to access these digital resources via their cell phones, schools stand to benefit economically and environmentally. When students use their phones to tap into a plethora of e-books and other online resources, it significantly reduces the need for schools to invest in physical textbooks, which can be expensive to purchase, update, and maintain. This shift to digital not only alleviates financial pressures but also ensures that students have the most up-to-date information right at their fingertips.
• Digital Document Sharing: Moreover, the digital sharing of documents by teachers further complements this eco-friendly and economical approach. Instead of relying on traditional methods of printing and copying, which come with associated costs and environmental concerns, educators can instantly distribute study materials, assignments, and other critical documents. This streamlined method reduces paper waste, aids in quicker dissemination of information, and fosters a more efficient classroom environment.

In conclusion, embracing the capabilities of cell phones in the academic realm presents a win-win scenario. It offers students the convenience and immediacy of digital access while allowing educational institutions to optimize resources, reduce costs, and promote sustainability.

6. Good for the Environment

The push towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious approach in education is becoming increasingly important, and digital transformation plays a pivotal role in this shift. By reducing the reliance on print resources and leveraging digital platforms, educational institutions are not only achieving significant financial savings but also contributing positively to environmental conservation.

Using gadgets in classrooms leads to:

• Saving Paper: It’s worth noting that a typical school consumes approximately 75 trees per year , further exacerbating the issues of deforestation. Every sheet of paper spared from printing translates to saved trees, which play an indispensable role in absorbing carbon dioxide, regulating global temperatures, and fostering biodiversity. By reducing the demand for paper, schools indirectly promote forest conservation and reduce their carbon footprint.
• Reducing Ink and Energy Consumption: The cascading benefits extend beyond just paper conservation. Lesser printing implies reduced consumption of ink, which in turn means fewer plastic cartridges that often end up in landfills. The energy used by printers and copiers, though seemingly minor on a day-to-day basis, accumulates over time, leading to substantial power consumption. By cutting down on these activities, institutions also reduce their energy footprint and the associated greenhouse gas emissions.

In essence, embracing digital alternatives in education is not merely a cost-saving strategy; it’s a declaration of commitment to the planet. Schools and educators, by opting for this approach, are not only preparing students for a digital future but also instilling in them the values of sustainability and responsible consumption.

7. Prepares Students for the Future

As educators, our primary responsibility extends beyond just imparting knowledge; it involves equipping students with skills and tools that will remain relevant in their future endeavors.

Undeniably, in the rapidly evolving landscape of the 21st century, technology stands as a colossal pillar shaping numerous sectors. In such a milieu, it becomes imperative for students to not only be familiar with but also proficient in utilizing technological tools, including mobile phones. Here’s what students can acquire that will be advantageous for their future:

• Using Phones as Research Tools: Mobile phones, often perceived merely as communication tools, have metamorphosed into multifunctional devices capable of tasks ranging from basic research to complex problem-solving. By incorporating them into the classroom environment, we offer students a hands-on approach to understand and harness the vast potential these devices possess.
• Enhancing Education through App-Based Learning: Moreover, phones serve as a practical tool to teach students how to study using technology, introducing them to a plethora of educational apps and online resources that can enhance their learning experiences.
• Preparing for a Future Profession: Furthermore, as many future careers will demand technological adeptness, proficiency in using smartphones and other tech tools can be a significant advantage for students entering the workforce. They will inevitably encounter scenarios where quick thinking, complemented by technological skills, will be invaluable.

In conclusion, embracing mobile phones in educational settings is more than just keeping pace with the times; it’s a forward-looking strategy. By doing so, we not only enhance the current learning experience but also lay a robust foundation for our students, ensuring they are well-prepared and competitive in their future careers.

8. Can Create Digitally Responsible Citizens

In an age dominated by digital communication, it’s crucial to instill not only tech proficiency but also digital etiquette among students. Schools, as primary centers of learning and social interaction, have an essential role in shaping this aspect of students’ digital journey. By permitting gadget use within school premises, we lay the groundwork for creating digitally responsible citizens.

Understanding the nuances of when and where to use a phone is paramount . Here’s how educational institutions can guide students towards responsible digital citizenship:

• Learning Digital Etiquette: In a professional setting or during crucial personal interactions, the inappropriate use of a mobile device can be perceived as disrespectful or inattentive. For instance, looking up and maintaining eye contact when someone addresses you demonstrates respect and active engagement, an essential soft skill in both professional and personal realms.
• Providing Environment for Practice: The school environment offers a controlled and supervised platform where students can practice these etiquettes. They can learn to strike a balance between staying digitally connected and being physically present, discerning when to put away their devices and engage with their surroundings.

Without these lessons, students may inadvertently cultivate habits that may hinder their interpersonal relationships in the future. Thus, integrating digital etiquette into the curriculum doesn’t just foster tech-savvy individuals; it molds well-rounded, respectful citizens adept at navigating the digital and real-world landscapes.

9. Can Help Students When Studying

In today’s digital age, the traditional means of note-taking have undergone a transformative evolution, with smartphones emerging as invaluable tools in this process. The built-in camera on mobile phones offers students an efficient and immediate way to capture essential educational content, augmenting their learning experience. Here’s how this can be helpful:

• Capturing Visuals Efficiently: During lectures or instructional sessions, there are often intricate diagrams, charts, or images that may be time-consuming or challenging to replicate by hand in notebooks. Here, the mobile camera serves as a boon. With a quick snap, students can capture these visuals in high resolution, ensuring they don’t miss out on any crucial details. This method not only saves time but also guarantees the accuracy of the information they’re recording.

“In my classes, I let students take pictures of the digital whiteboard, too. If an assignment description or important PowerPoint slide has been up long enough and I am ready to move on, before doing so, I invite kids to snap a picture. This allows them to refer back to the slide at home if necessary.” — Chad Donohue , National Education Association

• Reviewing and Studying: When it’s time to review the material, be it for a quiz, exam, or class discussion, these photographic notes can be invaluable. Students can easily revisit these images, zooming in on specific details or annotating them with additional insights. This visual approach to studying aids in better retention of information and can make abstract or complex concepts more tangible and understandable.

In essence, the integration of mobile cameras into the educational process amplifies the efficiency of learning. By merging traditional note-taking with digital resources, students are equipped with a richer, more comprehensive set of study materials, paving the way for enhanced academic performance.

10. Accessibility and Personalized Learning

The rise of technology in the educational sector has ushered in a new era marked by accessibility and personalized learning, with cell phones being central to this revolution. The push to incorporate mobile phones in the classroom stems from the profound potential they hold in creating more inclusive and tailored educational experiences, for example:

• Equal Opportunities: Accessibility is about ensuring that every student, regardless of their background, abilities, or challenges, has equal access to learning resources. Cell phones bridge this gap efficiently. For students with learning differences or physical disabilities, smartphones equipped with assistive technologies can be life-changing. Features like screen readers, voice-to-text capabilities, and adjustable text sizes ensure that content is accessible to all.
• Personalization: Beyond accessibility, mobile phones enable personalized learning. With a myriad of educational apps and platforms available, students can pace their learning according to their individual needs. Whether it’s diving deeper into topics of interest or taking additional time to grasp challenging concepts, smartphones allow for this flexibility. Teachers can also benefit, using these tools to offer differentiated instruction, catering to diverse learning styles and abilities within one classroom.

In conclusion, the allowance of cell phones in class isn’t just about keeping up with the times; it’s about championing a more egalitarian and individualized approach to education. By embracing this tool, educators can create a learning environment where every student feels valued, understood, and empowered.

11. Boosts Creativity and Innovation

In a world where creativity and innovation stand as pillars of progress, integrating cell phones into the classroom can act as a catalyst to spark these vital qualities in students. Permitting the use of these multifunctional devices within educational settings can usher in an era where boundaries of traditional learning are expanded, fostering a culture of imaginative thinking and inventive problem-solving:

• Unlimited Canvas for Students: Cell phones are no longer just communication tools; they’re compact hubs of unlimited resources and applications. From digital art platforms to music creation apps, coding environments to virtual reality experiences, the scope for exploration and creation is vast. When students are granted the freedom to utilize these tools, they are essentially handed a canvas with unlimited colors.
• Boosting Creativity Through Autonomy: Research indicated that student creativity flourished the most under professors who permitted their pupils to engage in “tasks of their own choosing,” particularly in devising innovative solutions via the development of educational apps. For instance, a literature student might create a visual representation of a poem, or a science enthusiast might design a virtual experiment. Such engagements not only solidify understanding but also encourage students to think outside the box, enhancing their creative prowess.
• Collaborative Innovation: With the collaborative features many apps offer, students can work in groups, brainstorming and building upon each other’s ideas. This collaborative innovation teaches them the essence of teamwork in creation.

In essence, understanding why phones should be allowed in school goes beyond merely embracing technology; it represents an opportunity for students to think differently, challenge norms, and innovate. It’s about nurturing a generation of creators and innovators who are prepared to shape the future.

As we mentioned above, allowing students to use phones in the classroom can greatly benefit your instruction.

There are a number of ways you can use these technological tools to enhance your lessons and provide your students with access to resources they may otherwise not be able to use. Some of the top ways to effectively use cell phones in the classroom include:

1. Scanning QR Codes

Teachers can create QR codes to send students to a specific website where they can find important information. You can also use QR codes to let students self-check their work (multiple QR codes, with the one next to the correct answer directing students to the next question or problem to solve).

2. Using Educational Apps

There is a multitude of educational apps out there designed for students of all ages and all subject areas. Choosing a few of these apps to use to give your students extra practice on a skill or target a specific area of need can be quite beneficial. Take a look at our articles on educational VR apps or vocabulary games .

3. Collaborating on Assignment

Students can work together with their classmates using Google Docs and see what the other is typing. This could work with students seated together, as well as with students working separately from one another.

4. Completing Surveys and Quizzes

You can have your students answer polling questions through their phones to assess their understanding of a given topic. These questions may be written as true/false, multiple-choice, or short answers. There are many different programs and websites that can help you with creating quizzes and surveys for your students.

5. Providing Feedback to Others

Students can read other students’ writing assignments or other work and provide them with digital feedback or additional questions to consider.

6. Augmented Reality Experiences

Leveraging cell phones, students can access augmented reality (AR) tools, transforming classroom learning. AR overlays digital information onto the real world, allowing students to interact with 3D models, historical recreations, or complex diagrams. This immersive experience deepens understanding, turning abstract concepts into tangible, interactive lessons, and making learning more engaging and memorable.

7. Recording and Editing Multimedia Projects

In the classroom, cell phones empower students to create multimedia projects by recording videos, capturing photos, and editing them on the go. This hands-on approach facilitates deeper understanding, promotes creativity, and enhances presentation skills. By producing and refining content, students learn both the subject matter and vital digital literacy skills, preparing them for modern, tech-driven environments.

Once your school has settled the debate over whether gadgets should be allowed in school and decided to let students use these valuable technological resources, it is essential to teach proper phone and technology etiquette to your students and develop systems to manage cell phone use in your classroom. Using mobile phones in the classroom properly is key; they should not be a distraction or something that gets in the way of learning.

In this video, CJ Reynolds is talking about tips that he uses to keep kids off their phones without making it a big deal.

Share these rules for digital etiquette with your students to help ensure phones are a beneficial tool, not one that distracts from learning.

Put your phone down when someone is talking to you and make eye contact with the speaker. Don’t text while you are walking. Be aware of your surroundings and don’t get distracted from someone or something important. Silence your phone when you are in class. Remove your headphones if someone is trying to talk to you. Don’t post on social media during the school day. Be a good digital citizen and avoid getting into any digital drama. Know the cell phone policy for each of your teachers, and respect it when in their classroom. Don’t make your teacher, classmates, friends, or family secondary to your phone.

Watch more about digital etiquette in this video by Rich Colosi Media.

Additionally, if you’re interested in crafting your own phone policy, please refer to our specialized article on the topic.

Useful Resources

• Cell Phones in School: Let’s Talk about the Pros and Cons
• What is Classroom Management?
• 19 Big and Small Classroom Management Strategies

Final Thoughts

There are some pros and cons to consider regarding using cell phones in the classroom. However, given all the benefits that were shared above, I think the reasons to allow mobile phones in school far outweigh the reasons against allowing them. Allowing students to use their gadgets in the classroom will help keep them engaged in learning and provide them with instant access to technology, tools, and resources to help them learn.

So, now that you know the answer to the question, “why should students be allowed to use cell phones in class,” has your thinking changed? How do you see yourself using mobile phones with your students?

• “Number of mobile phone users worldwide from 2015 to 2020”, Statista
• “Share of Americans owning a smartphone in the U.S. as of June 2023, by age”, Statista
• “Should you let your kids have a cellphone in school?”, USA TODAY
• Education Awesomeness
• The Daring English Teacher
• EdTech Endeavours
• A.J. Juliani
• “Should the Cell Phones Be Allowed in Schools”, DebateWise
• “Cell Phones in School: 11 Reasons Why They Should Be Allowed”, StudentTutor
• “What age are kids when parents first buy/give them their own cell phone?”, Statista
• “School Shootings Are Fueling the Debate Over Cellphones in Class”, Education Week
• “Smartphones can improve academic performance, when used appropriately”, phys.org
• “School Communication and the Environment”, Schoolstream
• “Building lifelong learning, with the help of technology”, University of Washington
• “The Importance of Promoting Digital Citizenship for Students”, School of Education
• “Using Smartphone Cameras To Improve Student Organizational Skills”, National Education Association
• “How I use my phone as assistive technology in class”, Perkins
• “Mobile Learning Can Promote Student Creativity When Done Right”, Campus Technology
• “Cell Phones In The Classroom: Learning Tool Or Distraction”, Oxford Learning
• “Should Cell Phones Be Allowed in School?”, School of Education
• Recent Posts

Simona Johnes is the visionary being the creation of our project. Johnes spent much of her career in the classroom working with students. And, after many years in the classroom, Johnes became a principal.

• 28 Exciting Yarn Crafts for Preschool Kids: Igniting Creativity and Fine Motor Skills - April 29, 2024
• 16 Engaging and Educational Cause and Effect Activities for Preschoolers to Boost Cognitive Development - April 24, 2024
• 25 Innovative and Engaging Parts of Speech Activities for Middle School: Fun Grammar Games to Enhance Learning - April 14, 2024

My principal seems to have an old-school thought process about cell phones in school and has completely banned them from being out in the classroom. I’d like to let my students use them for instructional purposes. Any tips on how to change her thinking?

That is tough. I’d start by finding some other teachers in your building that share your opinion and come up with a plan to present to your principal together. Bringing data, like what I shared in the article, about how cell phones can benefit students in class could help you make your point.

I love the artice and am using it for an assingment if you see it your name or website will be on it.

Thanks for the article it is truly an elaborate article, thanks for sharing it.

yes, this is fab

my teacher does not allow phones

my whole state banned phones in class TvT

I feel like you should be able to use your phone at passing periods and breaks and also lunch.

this is a common question people ask me I 57 year old male once allowed my kids to have phones in class but one pranked called the police so I say no

This is a nice source for my citation C: Thank you.

I am writing a speech to present to my class to persuade the teachers to allow more phone usage in class, thank you for your point of view and the information.

You’re welcome!

thanks so much! this will help a lot with a project I’m doing

I am making a debate speech this is really helpful thank you!

I was not born with this new technology, cell phone, I had to learn it. Now, I am a teacher and honestly, it is great as a tool for students to use but it’s also a deterrent. Like my wife says, “You give a mouse a cookie and they will ask you for a glass of milk”. Students seem to confuse rights with privilege. My students honestly believe that they have the right to use a phone whenever they want, this includes during a class, versus asking permission. Unfortunately, others do not use it appropriately. I have no problems with the use of cell phones, as long as it is for academic achievement, but not as a school alternative (ignore teacher and ignore daily task).

Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us! We completely agree about the inappropriate use of phones.

thank you! so much i don’t know what i would do without this information!

Thank you for this essay

The essay has good information but I want more. You are telling me about the technology benefits but that’s what the Chromebooks are for. So if you could give me a stronger argument I would definitely agree.

Thanks for letting us know. We will take your wishes into consideration

All nonsense!

Phones are by far the biggest distraction for teachers to deal with. You can’t compete with the entertainment value of their phone and when you have them out it away…they are still thinking about how to get around the rule. TOTAL BAN is the only way!!!

Students can not handle these devices!!!!

Thank you for sharing your opinion. I still believe there are many ways to get students’ attention in the classroom rather than on the phone.

I always enjoy the creative ways technology can be used in schools. The mix of video talks, blog ideas and teacher input this post are great ways to share ideas. Thanks for the modern takes on how to use phones in the classroom, it is refreshing!

My pleasure!

I NEED THIS FOR MY ESSAY. THANK YOU!

I believe that cell phones in schools should be friends not enemys

thank you so much

We need our phones for SAFETY ?

This was very cool and so many good reasons why we should be able to use our phones in class!

This was very helpful imformation

I appreciate this article it is so supportive and believes in this article thanks ✌

four big guys is crazy lol four big guys and they grab on my thighs

i agree they should allow phones in school but just when were are really stuck or bored. so that is why i think that.

Hey! Thank you! I needed this for my ELA class argumentative writing prompt, this information was very useful. Since my school has a no phone-in-class rule, I can’t even have it with me in my bag! The only time I have on it during weekdays is at home and on the bus. But anyways this information was essential for my project. Thank you! 😀

You’re welcome!?

This is so helpful for argumentative essays! Thank you!

Thay can be good use for kids that walk home from school or to school or both.

In many school districts, the students borrow laptops, so they don’t need cell phones. Teachers may use software to restrict the laptops to their selected educational websites. Cell phones have disrupted learning, so they must be banned or jammed in the classroom. However, when students aren’t distracted by cell phones, they will gradually become worse at running around, yelling, and fighting, like they did before their cell phone addictions. We need consistent discipline. Disruptive students should learn with fun programs on a computer in separate rooms, instead of infecting other students with bad attitudes. After a year of learning on a computer, they can try the classroom again. We also need online video in the classrooms, so everyone, especially parents, can see the discipline problems in schools. When white schools have strict discipline and cell phone bans, but minority schools don’t, which students will get the high-paying better jobs? This is racism.

I agree with this as a student! But unfurtently my school is very old school so they banned cellphones.

Thank you for this helped me with a essay im doing for school. 🙂

i agree so much?

thank you for the info cause i have been having trouble finding an article like that and i found one so thank you!?

I forgot to put that i’m having a debate about using cell phones in class.

Im a current high school student and honestly what I’ve seen is the exact opposite of this. first period English is just a majority of people being on their phones. Unless a teacher is very strict about phones usually nothing is done about it. Honestly my parents disallowing me to bring my phone to school is what changed my grades for the better for the rest of the school year up until now. Also, some students might argue for these points but it’s usually only used as a scapegoat to make the excuse of “Oh but this article says it’s good to use phones!” Still, I’ve seen phones do so much more negatives than positives as well as the points listed here barely ever being utilized.

Yes i think they should allow it for many reasons

Coming in from Parker Middle School so I am doing a essay on why we should be able to have phones in schools and even class rooms and I was wondering if you could have your word to support having cell phones in school.

phones are what brought you into this world be thankful

I love the way you used cell phones in the classroom. Me personally-I use mine for extracurriculars.

As a High School teacher, I pretty much dislike the use of cellphones. If used for emergency, yes that’s a legitimate argument and in such case, cell phones need to be accessible to students in case of an emergency. However that would be the only reason cellphones should be allowed in classrooms. I studied high school without a cellphone and I was able to be engaged, organized and learned by using other technologies. This article doesn’t mention the pros and cons of allowing cellphones in classrooms and does not consider if the benefits weigh more than the disadvantages.

Thank you this website is amazing hope I get an A+ for my argumentative essay. Wish Me Luck!

Thanks I will use this for my topic

As a teacher at my school, I can say the cell phones are 99% more a distraction than ever as a learning tool. All the kids on the phones during class is to play video games. and look at non educational sites so that’s why cell phones are banned in my classrooms. I would say if the kids understood accountability and are responsible, then it’s a different discussion.

i can use this for my project . Almost all my classmates try to sneak there phone in class . But they always get in trouble . They don’t need a phone becuase it is can make you fail class and other things that is a proably

Very valid points. I am using you as a source for my essay. Thank you.

Thanks this helped me with my Delve Project

Hi, my name is Eli and I am an 8th grader at Indianola Middle School in Iowa. I am doing a research project about a topic of my choice and I chose to research Should phones be allowed in class. I think you would be a great person to give me more information about this topic because you gave great points and reasons why phones should be allowed in school classrooms.

Thank you so much for this article, Love your work!!!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

10 Reasons Why Cell Phones Should be Allowed in Schools

In recent years, the debate over allowing students to use their phones at school has gained considerable attention. While many educational institutions enforce strict policies against cell phones , the argument for permitting their use is also compelling. In a world where technology permeates almost every aspect of our lives, it’s worth examining why cell phones should be allowed in schools.

Let’s take a step back and reconsider how cell phones can enhance the campus experience, rather than hinder it. After all, digital tools can streamline administration and make the campus experience much more enjoyable. Whether it’s checking into school events, participating in polls or group conversations, or even redeeming points for school swag, the arguments for cell phones on campus are vast. Schools that are open to the idea—but worried about abuse—can establish clear guidelines to regulate usage, ensuring that the devices serve a practical purpose without becoming a distraction.

Here are 10 Reasons Why Cell Phones Should be Allowed in Schools:

1. responsible digital citizenship.

When integrating phone time into the classroom environment it serves to teach students digital boundaries and enforces a positive screen time limit which will follow students off campus. Creating this boundary of situational cell phone use by having designated phone use on campus helps students live a life where their phone is a tool that they are not dependent on. 

Ensuring all students are safe is constantly on the minds of faculty. With students having connection to their parents at any time and ongoing digital communication with their peers during breaks, they are almost constantly under the watch of their trusted individuals. Not to mention anti-fraud Digital Hall Passes and Digital Student ID Cards are now available on student devices.

3. Accelerated learning

One proven fact is that cell phones in school can help accelerate a student’s learning. Students involved in social outlets like sports or clubs are able to excel in the classroom. Using virtual social tools can have that same effect and help students stay engaged in a classroom environment.

4. Activities

Letting students use their phones for interactive classwork and activities is an amazing way to keep them present and raise participation to an all-time high. 

5. Fosters positive change and innovation

Innovation is one of the great forefronts of academic society, so embrace it, and help prepare students for the outside world where phones are now a large part of 83% of the workforce. 

6. Intuitive learning

Since students today have grown up using cell phones, they are extremely comfortable with technology. Students of this generation have an intuitive sense of learning when it comes to tech and can help facilitate even the hardest of materials when made digital on a screen that the student is familiar with.

Every cell phone has access to a variety of tools that can come in handy in a classroom environment, such as a calculator, a timer, a clock, etc. 

8. Group work

Another reason why cell phones should be allowed on high school campuses is because they enable group work in the classroom, especially if you have multiple groups working toward different objectives. 

9. Creativity

Fostering creativity in the classroom is every teacher’s goal. With tools like video editing, and cameras, students can grasp their creative sides and become more engaged in some topics through the expression of their artistic passion.

10. Memories and fun

Lastly, you should allow phones at middle and high school campuses because this allows students to document and build their memories and relationships as they grow and create a positive school life where they feel happy to attend every day. 

Build a thriving school community that runs like clockwork with Minga’s comprehensive  Campus Management Platform . The software integrates smoothly with existing Student Information Systems to offer a solution that saves your school time and money.  Book a demo  with a Minga solutions expert to learn more.

Related Posts

• Minga Version 7: Get Ready to Navigate Minga Like Never Before! 

• What Is a Digital Hall Pass, and How Does It Work?

• 7 Cool Ways Schools are Using Minga
• Campus Management Platform
• Community and Communication
• Digital Hall Pass
• Digital Student ID
• PBIS and Behavior Tracking
• Press Releases
• Safety and Security
• School Culture and Student Engagement

Recent Posts

• Minga Collaborates With Avenue Growth Partners to Propel its Campus Management Platform into Expansion Phase
• 4 Tools to Keep Kids In Class: Making School Irresistible