Some schools have restricted the use of mobile phones. Is this a positive development or a negative one?

In most schools around the world, students have their own mobile phone. While these devices can undoubtedly play a role in safety, connectedness and even learning, many schools have chosen to restrict their use on campus. In my view,

this

is a positive step and can bring benefits not only academically but physically and socially too. Restricting phone use in the classroom itself can improve learning.

This

is simply because, without these devices, there are far fewer distractions for teachers and students. When a student has their mobile in their lap or pocket,

for instance

, there is an irresistible urge to check constantly for texts, alerts or social media updates. Even the most observant

teacher

Suggestion

teachers

cannot prevent them from sneakily checking their messages or scrolling through

this

irrelevant material during the lesson. These endless distractions draw attention away from important educational matters and erode attention spans, which can have long-term effects on academic progress. A blanket ban on phones during class frees learners from

this

compulsive checking and allows them to focus.

In addition

to banning phones in the classroom, a school that restricts their usage outside the class can

also

expect improvements in student wellbeing. Indeed, if phones are banned at lunchtime and recess, children are forced to engage in a more meaningful and perhaps active way with their classmates. They may play games, sports or simply sit and chat together, activities which are far healthier than sitting alone hunched over a screen. Without limitations enforced by the school, children simply cannot draw the line

on

Suggestion

with

their mobile usage. These social and physical benefits are only possible with strict mobile rules. In conclusion,

although

phones are a part of our modern

lives

Suggestion

life

, I strongly feel that their use in schools should be limited. With firm boundaries and bans in some situations, students are able to learn better, strengthen friendships and engage in healthier pursuits.