The Debate (Week 14): Should Students Be Allowed to Use Phones in School?
In today's technologically advanced world, it seems almost every kid has a smartphone. But should schools allow the use of these phones? Let's dive into this debate. 🧐
In my opinion, students should not be permitted to use mobile phones within school premises. If they have access to phones, it is inevitable that their attention will be diverted from what's being taught in the classroom. Instead of focusing on studies, they will be seen scrolling social media or playing games.
It is often observed that children who spend most of their time on mobiles, playing games or mindlessly browsing social media tend to develop illnesses like depression and anxiety. Their social skills also deteriorate, finding it difficult to make real friends or hold conversations.
Moreover, excessive mobile usage leads to compromised eating habits as health tends to take a backseat. I believe it's the responsibility of parents not to buy phones for their kids at a very young age or, if they do, to keep a strict eye on their online activities.
Regarding schools, I don't think anyone would agree to let students carry phones to classrooms and use them as they please. It will gravely impact their education with too many distractions hampering their ability to learn. Additionally, it becomes difficult for teachers to maintain discipline in the classrooms.
My advice is that schools should enforce strict rules against mobile phones. Not just students, but teachers too should keep their phones off during class to ensure attention is solely on education.
Speaking of colleges, there have been cheating incidents enabled by phones during exams. Also, cases of misconduct like harassment of female students, illegally capturing photos/videos are rising in campuses with lenient phone policies. Even at the college level, if phones are allowed, there should be strict rules and consequences for violations.
However, at university level, with relatively mature students aware of right and wrong, some freedom with mobile and internet access makes sense. It enables them to research online or work on assignments, projects while still paying attention in class when required.
Professors can also benefit from tech availability to effectively showcase presentations or content. With most systems going online, university life without mobiles seems implausible when so much depends on internet.
To conclude, mobile phones shouldn't be allowed in school classrooms. Colleges might permit limited use with strict regulations, whereas universities should allow them, considering students are mature enough to manage their usage responsibly, knowing when to silence their phones or step out for calls without being told.
