Word is that most districts in Kansas are doing a phone ban. But the ban shouldn’t be a thing! Students should have the choice to have their phones at all times.
One good reason students need their phones is that some people like to do their school assignments on their phone. Many use them to take photos for assignments or some don’t like using MacBooks, especially the old ones that are slow. Some times phones are the best tools for a job. Why take that tool away?
Secondly, people should have the option when they finish their assignments, or they have nothing to do in class, to use their phones for entertainment. This can actually be a good thing in that it will help teachers with classroom management! When students don’t have anything to do often their boredom can lead to classroom disruptions for students who are still working on assignments. Letting students use their phones can cut down on student misbehavior, and keep them in the classroom.
Third reason is what might happen if there is an school emergency, or a personal crisis for a student and they need to call for help!? Also, parents and siblings might have a crisis outside of school and need to reach their student quickly! With a school phone ban, emergencies can escalate and do more harm than good.
More than anything though, people should have the freedom to choose if they want to use their phones or not. We are 21st Century learners! Freedom and connectivity are a part of our world and are a necessary tool we have grown to rely upon.
The State of Kansas needs to realize that connectivity is an integral part of the 21 Century student experience. Banning phones in class is a step backwards technology-wise. School districts need to think forward and stop the bans!
