The B.C. government’s initiative to restrict the use of cell phones in school classrooms this September is long overdue.
Alberta is implementing a similar policy at the same time, and many European countries have introduced variations of cell phone bans, or partial bans with considerable success.
Success looks like students concentrating more on their studies, and engaging in more person-to-person engagements.
In some places where phones were outright prohibited on school grounds, students also found more outdoor activities to amuse themselves, and more play time.
Our provincial government’s policy is fairly stretchy. It allows each school district to decide its interpretation of the directive, and further for each school to set its own rules.
So, not necessarily a lot of teeth there.
There will be pitfalls.
Woe betide the enthusiastic educator who tries to confiscate a phone during an instruction period.
First off, trying to separate a teenager from their cellphone is akin to wrestling a bear cub away from its momma.
Inevitably, there will be conflict, and just wait for the phrase, “I know my rights!”
This is why parents need to put their support behind this policy and back up teachers who are dealing with it.
Co-operative communication with local schools will be key to success.
And success looks like students concentrating more on their studies, and engaging in more person-to-person.
- Black Press Media
