Allowing cell phone in the classroom
For this generation involving cell phones as a part of their learning process can actually be very productive as it engages students with what they are very familiar and comfortable with.
Janice,
cell phones can definitely be a useful tool depending on the makeup of the class & the course content.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
All of my students have cell phones in the classroom on their desk and I allow it. I use it as a learning tool. Many times looking up info in class is an awesome way to stimulate learning. Many times I make it a contest and then all want to participate.
Heather ,
I think you're right on & I would encourage really examining whether the use of technology is appropriate for the class or not.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I have not had any students taking notes on iphones yet, but will have to consider them in that instance. Otherwise my course material does not utilize technology where teaching with phones would be beneficial and I currently find them to be a problem if allowed in the classroom. I personally like to have my cell phone put away when I have someone or something that needs my attention as one is easily distracted to just glance at the screen when a new email or text comes up. It seems best for everyone to just not allow them. I do see the purpose in a class where the use of the technology is part of the classroom material.
Heather Scott, RDH
Cell phones have there place in the class room in certain situations. However they can also consume time that can be used for personal interaction and discussion. I find them to be very disruptive at times.
Autumn,
you are right that there are some advantages but the cell phones definitely have to be carefully managed.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I agree that cell phones can benefit in the classroom if they are used as a tool; however a majority of students use them in class to text, facebook etc. Somehow finding the balance is tricky.
Andrew,
I think finding the right uses is very appropriate.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I will let the students use there cell phones for calculators and conversion tables etc.
At our school we have a strict no cell phone policy in our classrooms. Yet students will still sneak them out and continue texting during a lesson and, of course, miss valuable information.
Per our company policy, cell phones are not allowed inside the classroom. However, I do allow them to utilize them during our computer lab time for the purpose of working on thier presentaions only.
Brian,
I agree with you & I do not allow the use of cell phones in my class just because. I have a few students who have the portable key boards & actually take notes on their iphones, I treat these just like a laptop but just to have a phone out is not allowed.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Gary,
this is an excellent point. Utilizing technology in the workplace takes on many different forms so we need to explore all the options.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Mary,
I agree or other types of technology when there is an appropriate application to the material or career field (i.e. tablets, etc).
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I see the value of it if it is formalized as part of a lesson. But, in general, cell phones are a source of distraction in the class room. Do you approach it as such? I'm curious how you balance the pros and cons.
I totally agree. I teach Photoshop & Web Design and I need my students to understand the design of a website on a regular computer screen verses a iphone screen.
