The humble pencil. It exists as a writing and drawing tool. Great things have come about as a result of this tool, both in terms of education and world-changing influence. But the pencil also makes for an excellent weapon. It can be used as a missile or a dagger.
The mobile phone. It exists as a communication and research tool. Great things have come about as a result of this tool, both in terms of education and world-changing influence. But the mobile phone also makes for an excellent weapon. It can be used as a distraction or to emotionally injure.
Got teenagers who stay up all night using their phones? This might help. Post continues below.
We allow pencils in schools despite their potential danger because we know they assist in the learning environment. Children understand the intended purpose of a pencil, yet children are smart enough and creative enough to know that it can also be used as a weapon. When the novelty of a pencil has worn off, responsibility tends to dominate its use. Yes, there is always the risk that children will resort to using a pencil as a weapon, but it is our responsibility as adults to instil values that help children to make wise and caring choices. When children falter, we have a responsibility to help them learn from their mistakes, to restore damaged relationships, and to work towards behavioural improvement in the future. Confiscation may form part of this process for a period of time.
Top Comments
Is using a phone that different to passing notes or whispering or the millions of other ways kids have distracted themselves throughout history in boring classes? If you have to force kids to learn you’ve failed already.
Not to mention... children are individuals! Schools have always tried to fit people into one model of behaviour when psychology shows we all learn in extremely different ways- some people learn better when doing something like doodling, but its been chastised by teachers for centuries. Aren’t we finally getting to the moment where we realise education is about empowering kids to make their own good choices, not telling them what to think?
in the end, Schools can fight against technology all they like, but they’ll never ever win. Besides, chances are students will lead way more on google and YouTube than they will glazed over while someone rambles about trigonometry.
Mobile phones should be banned from school. There is absolutely no reason for a child to have one, let alone have one at school. Books. Laptop. Computers. They are there for use, they nullify the need for any phone during class time. Mobile phones have led to a breakdown in society, and a breakdown in communication. Not only is the author ignoring the fact that bullying on phones leads to increased child suicides, at a rate never seen before, but it is a legal safety issue. A phone with a camera (and it is rare to find a find without a camera) can be used to not just bully, but spy, record and may even get in a paedophile's hand. The line should be drawn where there is a camera involved at a school where minors attend. Common sense and safety. Not irresponsibility.