Should Mobile Phones be used in classrooms?

Bill Gates and Steve Jobs did not allow their kids to own a mobile phone because they knew the addictive nature of these devices.  

Who knew that a small hand held device can be so addictive? That’s certainly the case for schools and at home. It’s driving parents and teachers mad. 

Why are mobile phones addictive?

Social Media

Teenagers and even some adults are constantly on social media. Different users will use different platforms depending on their age. For example, most teenagers will use Discord or Snap Chat and adults tend to use Facebook. 

Likes, comments and hearts are all addictive. It feeds into your consciousness that you are loved and liked and who doesn’t want to be loved or liked?

Games

Games like Candy Crush are extremely addictive. Every time you win you get a dopamine hit. The game is developed in such a way that it is visually appealing and users start off on a easy level 

Distraction

Students who use mobile phones during class times are less focussed and as a result produce less quality work. This is because they are constantly receiving notifications and messages alerting them. There are so many different apps and if they all want the students attention, then, that students concentration will be diminished. 

So, how can students work alongside technology that won’t hinder their progress?

Some teachers ban mobile phones altogether. Whilst other teachers, the really smart ones manage to integrate mobile phones within the learning. 

Quizzes/Games 

Kahoot and other app games can be played on a mobile device. This is engaging the student and also utilising technology in a positive way.

Students can compare their scores on a leadership board and become competitive. 

QR Codes

QR Codes contain lots of helpful information. Students can gain knowledge and a better understanding. 

Photography and Audio

Students can also use the camera feature to capture what was written on the Smart Board and save it for future reference. Or, to use the audio feature to record their voice and then convert it into text if they are Dyslexic. Mobiles provide students with learning difficulties and that can be invaluable in the eyes of the student and the learning process. 

Mobile phones should be used sparingly and under supervision based on the age level because of its addictive nature. But, other than that it can be a real asset for the classroom as a valuable resource.