One teacher called it a quiet revolution. Others call it an awakening. Either way, research on cellphone use among teens has prompted legislators and educators to change the rules of engagement in hopes of improving students’ success in the classroom and emotional well-being.
“Studies indicating the negative impact of cell phones in the classroom prompted our original discussion,” said Rep. Tom Kuhn (R-Sterling Heights) co-sponsor of House Bill 5920. “We have seen historically low scores for our students in K-12.
Also, the success of various school districts in pilot projects limiting cell phones encouraged further action.” One such study by the University of Texas (UT) at Austin showed that the mere presence of smartphones in educational settings significantly diminishes students’ attention spans and cognitive functions. The findings of the meticulous research has illuminated the troubling trend and school districts are reacting with varying solutions and restrictions.
“Currently, students in our elementary and middle schools are permitted to have cellphones if their parents deem it appropriate. However, they cannot carry their cell phones with them, leaving them in their backpack or their locker,” said John Bernia, superintendent of Warren Consolidated Schools. “Our high schools allow teacher discretion, using a ‘zone’ system.
A red zone would indicate cell phone use is not permitted, while a green zone would indicate cell phone use is allowed when app.