Cell Phones or NO Cell Phones...that is the question.

While we sometimes think banning cell phones, iPads, iPods, and all other electronic devices is a way to "manage" tech violations, it may be adding to the frustration of teacher managed behaviors in the classroom. I've had my share of students trying to use their cell phones to snap a pic in the classroom or texting their parents, siblings, and friends. Each time I catch them I ask them for the device and walk it down to the Principal's office so that they can pick it up at the end of the day. It is our policy, stated in the handbook, that no electronic devices are to be used during the school day. Devices can only be used before or after school.

I recently observed a Principal from another school district and found students using their cell phones at lunch, in the hallways, and after they were dismissed at the end of the day. The students are also allowed to use wireless devices educationally in the classroom. They have 1:1 iPads but students are also welcome to use wireless devices from home leaving an iPad for another student.

My conclusion: This will continue to be a debate. But I do think it depends on the teachers, how much tech is involved in the lesson plans (flipped classrooms), and how well the infrastructure is built (wifi signal).

Here are some other articles that may shed light on this topic:


Toys to Tools: Connecting Student Mobile Phones to Education

What is BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) and Why Should Teachers Care?