The modern technologies available to us now literally put information a Google search away on a device that can fit in our palm. The use of smartphones within schools is controversial, and has many different opinions. Whiles some schools have banned smart phones, others have embraced them. No matter what opinions we each have, there has also been little research into what effects cell phones have within the classroom.
It seems different schools are trying different methods, and they all are achieving different results. For instance, the Burnage Academy for Boys has banned cell phones for the past four years; if a cell phone is found it is confiscated and the student’s parent has to retrieve it (Jeffreys, 2016). The school says it has increased concentration among the students and decreased cyber bullying (Jeffreys, 2016). In contrast, the IPACA School has completely embraced the use of smart phones, tablets, smart watches and other forms of technology (Jeffreys, 2016). They teach the students how to effectively use the technology to seek answers and information pertinent to what they are studying. Despite being able to use the technology for school, there are still guidelines the children must follow. For instance, cell phones must be left face up and visible on the table so anyone can see what the student is looking at (Jeffreys, 2016).
There is little doubt that these technologies are now a permanent part of society. Knowing how to properly utilize them is a skill that all children will need. While more research needs to be done into how best to use this technology within schools, if students learn early a healthy respect for the technology as well as how to properly utilize the technology, it will be an excellent learning tool .
References
Jeffreys, B. (2016). Can a smartphone be a tool for learning? - BBC News. BBC News. Retrieved 16 April 2016, from http://www.bbc.com/news/education-34389063
