Cyber bullying, cheating, distractions and competition are the many negatives of allowing cellphones in school
ISLAMABAD: Cell phones have become an everyday necessity, but it is quite clear that allowing students to bring and use them in schools has more negative repercussions. Parents have argued previously that they need their children to be able to use their phone in school in case of emergency. Yet, they are still able to contact their children through school landlines just as quick.
Smartphone gadgets are the number one way to distract and divert a 15-year-old’s attention as they would be constantly eager to check their messages and/or stay engaged on various social media platforms. Not only students, but teachers might also get distracted due to phones ringing and buzzing ultimately affecting everyone around.
Also, cell phones in schools allow for cheating as a quick search of the test answers can solve any problem. They also allow for cyber-bullying which can have serious consequences.
Lastly, allowing all students to carry phones with them within the school premises creates an atmosphere of competition to carry the best and the most expensive ones, which ultimately results in obstacle to learning.
Azam Iqbal
Published in The Express Tribune, July 16th, 2018.
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