The importance of cell phones in our lives is undeniable. From Spotify to Google to Instagram, phones have been the foremost contributor amongst youth and their daily lives, so much that they have become distracting. For this reason, schools, including Lake Forest Academy, have begun to establish rules regarding the usage of cell phones during school hours.
Established last year, the current LFA policy states that students should have their phones on Do Not Disturb, and put in the student’s backpacks. It further goes to state that under no circumstances can students break these rules. Despite this, certain classes seem to be more lenient and implement their own policy, as phones are observed to be lying on tables.
Though some students have their phones out they do not necessarily have to distract from the students’ education, the prevalence of phones in class may even help the learning process. Upon encountering simple problems, such as the need of a dictionary or a calculator, using a phone is much more convenient.
Instead of the policy currently in place, it would be more effective to store our phones in a designated area, for example, the cupholders of the desks. This subtle distance allows for some space which will reduce students’ temptation of checking their phones subconsciously. With this solution, students will be able to maintain their focus during class, while still having a more accessible solution for permitted uses, such as during breaks or unknown emergencies.
In the case of an emergency, having a phone out during class allows for quicker communication with others, allowing for individuals to stay alert and efficient. A recent lockdown drill brought attention to the dangers of being unable to receive notifications due to the Do Not Disturb feature on cell phones. Rather than reaching through the bottom of a backpack, being able to contact someone will be at an easier reach. Not only is this beneficial for emergencies at school, but also for those at home, as the need to go through a complex communication process can be disregarded.
Regardless if teachers forcefully take away a student’s phone, there is no guarantee that the student will pay attention in class. At the end of the day, students will only hurt themselves and their future if they decide to focus on social media during class, instead of taking opportunities to advance their education.
Indresh Chandel