It would be a mistake to ban cell phones in classrooms. Why? Well, researchers have found that cell phones can create the right environment for learning. Studies have also revealed that 75 percent of all kids aged between 12 and 17 carry mobile phones wherever they go. Hence, there is an urgency to allow cell phone usage in schools, colleges, and universities to foster learning amongst students.
Cell phones are cheaper than laptops and desktop computers. They are handy as well and highly portable, can be easily carried to any where you go. The emergence of camera phones has made it a lot easier to capture texts, images, and videos anytime in the classrooms. Cell phones can also be used to email important learning documents or website hyperlinks to friends and fellow classmates.
Let’s discuss in detail the major advantages of using cell phones in classrooms.
Accessing the Internet
Students can access the internet to search for relevant reference materials and websites. For example, you are looking for good write-ups to prepare your life science project. In between classes or during lunch time, you can use your handset to quickly find out useful information to help complete your project work. Many schools cannot afford internet connection in the classroom. Students with mobile phones can easily work on assignments without thinking internet access.
Calculator
Almost all cell phones come with a built-in calculator that can be used to solve math problems and equations. Some software’s can be downloaded for free on your cell phone to solve complex arithmetic, trigonometry, and logarithms. Therefore, you don’t really need to buy a calculator and carry it to class every day, since your handset has it already.
Calendar
Mobile phones also include a calendar, which can be utilized to set reminders for examination dates or course fee dates, instantly. It becomes easier for students to store relevant memos on a single place, which means there are negligible chances of students to forget about important school events.
Parental Contact
Parents can easily stay in touch with their children during school hours if they carry a handset with them. During an emergency, such as: natural calamities, school shooting, etc. children can get in touch with their parents instantly. You can send your parents an SMS or leave them a voice mail when you need to tell them something urgently without waiting until the end of the school day. Students can also contact their parents in case they have forgotten to bring an important textbook or left notes at home.
