We constantly see cell phones as a distraction and a way to void the lecture of the head of the classroom, however can these mobile devices actually protect our children during dangerous or harmful circumstances? The way I saw this was beyond the typical complaints of this mobile phone, but as more of a safety issue. In today's society we put so much emphasis on technology, whether we mean to or not.
I can even remember when my older sister had first received her cell phone at age 17, and that was early at that age. Now-a-days you see 10 year olds running around with the newest and brightest cellular device.
Anyways, in school there are some advantages to having a cell phone, at least from a parenting perspective. If there ever were a case of emergency in the school, one that places those in its facilities in danger, it could lead to faster and more efficient means of contacting help. We are not strangers to such situations, we have seen tragedies like the shootings that occurred in Colorado at Columbine High school.
Even with less severe cases, bullying is where most of these tragedies begin. You can't really find a mobile device without a camera attachment in today's recent models, this could also help protect the student body. Being able to take pictures or have the ability to call for help at any time is a benefit within its self.
With every advantage comes disadvantages. In emergency cases, sometimes cellphone usage can actually worsen a situation. At times, when there are emergencies and most children call home to their parents, parents do worry, after all they are parents. Sometimes the lines to the school will be so held up with worried home-calls that calling the authorities may be difficult and cause chaos.
If anyone wants to vote and take surveys on what they think about cellular devices in school, you can go to http://www.ehow.com/
This site is perfect for all people. It offers anywhere from education blogs to parenting advice.
This has some great points, Carly. I have always seen cell phones as more of a distraction to students than a helpful tool in a dangerous situation. I think that is something that needs to be thought about when we consider the though of banning the use of cell phones in school atmospheres.
ReplyDeleteThank you Emily. It it important to look at what is seen as negatives in the school setting and look at them in a different light. With every grey area, there must be a silver lining!
ReplyDeleteI think that cell phones in school are a huge distraction. There are phones in every classroom in every school. Why should one student have the right to call their parents on a private cell phone when another student who can't afford one cannot?
ReplyDeleteWell Tom, the problem is, most students do not have access to such phones. In most school facilities, there are certain codes to access outside contact. This is for privacy reasons. It is not necessarily about affording a cell phone or not, I am simply pointing out the benefits if one is lucky enough to have such a device.
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