From the editor: No absolute freedom for phones in schools
Aug 03, 2010
TO allow or not to allow students to use cell phones in schools has for a long time raised controversy. International research makes it clear that the use of cell phones distracts students and impacts negatively on performance.
TO allow or not to allow students to use cell phones in schools has for a long time raised controversy. International research makes it clear that the use of cell phones distracts students and impacts negatively on performance.
In Uganda, possession or use of cell phones by students is strictly prohibited in many schools. Schools, parents, students and education stakeholders are still sharply divided over the issue.
The current policy gives the school administrators the mandate to set their own regulations as regards the use of cell phones in their respective schools.
Like any other communication utility, the cell phone is prone to abuse. Schools should appreciate that students are inclined to adventure given their developmental stage.
There have been cases of exam malpractices, access to drugs and alcohol facilitated through cell phones in schools. Many students also spend valuable study time playing phone games, making calls or sending short messages.
Granting the students absolute freedom to use cell phones at school compromises the schools’ educational integrity. Schools must help students understand when, where and how to use the cell phone. Even schools that allow the use of cell phones should recognise the need for regulation.
In Uganda, possession or use of cell phones by students is strictly prohibited in many schools. Schools, parents, students and education stakeholders are still sharply divided over the issue.
The current policy gives the school administrators the mandate to set their own regulations as regards the use of cell phones in their respective schools.
Like any other communication utility, the cell phone is prone to abuse. Schools should appreciate that students are inclined to adventure given their developmental stage.
There have been cases of exam malpractices, access to drugs and alcohol facilitated through cell phones in schools. Many students also spend valuable study time playing phone games, making calls or sending short messages.
Granting the students absolute freedom to use cell phones at school compromises the schools’ educational integrity. Schools must help students understand when, where and how to use the cell phone. Even schools that allow the use of cell phones should recognise the need for regulation.