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

phones

. While these devices can undoubtedly play a role in safety, connectedness 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 phone 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 cannot prevent them from sneakily checking their messages or scrolling through

this

irrelevant material during the lesson.

Moreover

, 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 curtails the

use

of these devices 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 fellows. They may involve in sports, games 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 their phone usage. These social and physical benefits are only possible with strict rules. In conclusion, despite

phones

are a part of our modern lives, I strongly feel that their

use

in schools should remain limited. With firm boundaries and bans in some situations, students are able to learn better, strengthen friendships and engage in healthier pursuits.