When I saw the discussion at Union’s School Board meeting this month, I thought I could offer a different perspective.
I’ve seen both sides of how schools can either use or not use electronic devices. Yes, we all know that smartphones and other devices are huge distractions in life. They can affect student’s attention in class.
One thing I know for sure, smartphones, tablets, computers and smartwatches aren’t going anywhere soon. One thing that I have seen throughout the last few years with parents and students, parents want a way to get in touch with their students even at school.
It’s really easy to send them a text even though we know they’re in class just to see how the day is going and check in on them to make sure all is well.
I don’t care what policies are out there, that’s going to continue regardless of how much you put policies in place to restrict phones.
However, I have seen a school district implement a Bring Your Own Device policy that gives teachers the ability to use electronic devices in their classrooms if they choose. The teacher might not choose to use smartphones, but they also understand that students know how to operate their own devices much better than a school computer or Chromebook.
The key to this is having good WiFi throughout the school.
If the school can’t get access to it, then maybe it’s better to eliminate electronic devices, but I think teachers can be innovative and can use a distraction and turn it into a teachable moment.
Contact Brent Maze at bmaze@-newtoncountyappeal.com.
