DO CELL PHONES HELP OR HURT STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT?

WCSD POLICY- READ ALOUD TO STUDENTS Students may possess or use electronic signaling devices, including but not limited to pagers, beepers, and cellular/digital telephones, provided that the use of such devices is confined to areas outside school buildings—before and/or after school hours or during lunch break. Electronic signaling devices shall not be carried into classrooms during assessments, semester exams, or other testing situations. Inside school buildings and during the school day, electronic signaling devices shall be in the “off” position at all times. Electronic signaling devices should be stored in the student’s locker, if possible. When not possible, the electronic signaling devices may be carried in the “off” position in the student’s backpack or other carry item. Outside of the school instructional hours or during school activities, electronic signaling devices may be carried in the “vibrate” or “silent ringer” notification mode.

DID YOU KNOW? Violations of the cell phone policy shall be cumulative for the students in grades Discuss what this means with your advisory class in small groups, then share with the entire class.

Researchers conducted a study to find out what impact banning all mobile phones has had on student test scores. Discuss what you think happened.

THEY FOUND THE IMPACT OF BANNING ALL USE OF CELL PHONES FOR THESE STUDENTS RAISED TEST SCORES FOR ALL STUDENTS AND WAS THE TIME EQUIVALENT TO AN ADDITIONAL HOUR A WEEK IN SCHOOL, OR TO INCREASING THE SCHOOL YEAR BY FIVE WHOLE DAYS.

WHAT THE STUDIES SHOW: HERE ARE SOME POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPACTS OF USING ELECTRONIC DEVICES AT SCHOOL. Harmful effects of digital devices: There are concerns from the EPA about long-term exposure to wireless devices and computer screens. Inappropriate materials could be accessed.

Distraction from schoolwork: With the temptation of social media and texting in their hands, students may focus solely on their social life instead of the lesson plan. Child predators and cyberbullying Provide a ‘dis-connect’: Studies show that digital devices in the classroom lead to disconnection to the lessons and student interaction.

DISCUSS SOME PROS AND CONS OF CELL PHONES DURING THE SCHOOL DAY