The New Phone Ban: A Shift in Classroom Dynamics

The new phone ban implemented at Citadel High has caught the attention of students, educators, and parents alike. A study showed that 97% of students use their phones as a distraction during the school day (Merod and Modan, 2023). Implemented by the province, the ban’s creation was prompted by the desire for students to be more engaged, attentive, and productive in the classroom. The policy states that no phones shall be used during instructional hours, even if it is used as a calculator for math. This article explores teachers’ perspectives on the ban and their experiences over the past month. 

Mr. Watson shared that he was originally concerned about the effectiveness of the ban, although later found that it was successful. “I was initially worried about how effective the cell phone ban would be, but after the first week it was clear it was working and students were able to be more successful without their phones”. He noted that its success could partially be attributed to the fact that “All schools [had] agreed to ban cell phones this year so students do not need to worry about missing messages from their friends at other schools [as no one had access to them]”. Mr. Watson also said that he has found that the ban has increased student participation, and that he “really hasn’t had any difficulties with [enforcing] the policy”. 

Mrs. Thomas, in room 311, also shared her opinion on the new policy. Similarly to Mr. Watson, she remarked that the rule consistently being upheld across all schools in the province is advantageous - “I was also nervous about how it would be enforced, if it would be consistent across all schools, or if each school had their choice of how to implement it…I think phones and social media have created this false perception that we should always be able to be reached or contacted, which can be very stressful.”, commenting on how the phone ban is beneficial to students’ mental health. She expressed how “it felt [awful] to be teaching a lesson and see 50% of the class looking down at their phones. It made me feel really dejected about my lesson plans and activities.”, a feeling which I can assume all teachers resonate with. Mrs. Thomas foresees that the policy will foster such a positive environment in classrooms. “I think students will be more well-rounded young adults with better work habits and social skills.”, indicating that scholars are developing necessary aptitudes for the “real world”. 

My first impression of the ban was that it would be both ineffective and unproductive. This last month has altered my perspective. Overall, it appears that the phone ban has yielded a positive impact on students’ learning and experience at school. I have been more attentive and productive in class, as the policy has been successful. Technology can greatly enhance learning, yet there’s a delicate balance to maintain. Thank you to our teachers for expressing their points of view on this new and controversial matter.

Merod, Anna, and Naaz Modan. 2023. “97% of teens say they use their phones during the school day.” K-12 Dive. https://www.k12dive.com/news/teen-cell-phone-use-schools/694901/.