SPEECH
Introduction
*pause* Schools should ban cell phones during school hours! Did you know that in a classroom of 25 students, about two notifications go off every minute? These days, the use of mobile phones has grown exponentially over the past decade. Many students have access to mobile phones, social media, and even mobile games, which might seem unharmful, but these can cause many significant damages to students' health and education.
Main Point 1: Distraction and Focus
First, cell phones should be banned in schools because cell phones can significantly diminish a students' focus while learning. Many students get distracted by their cell phones due to social media, phone addictions, and even the sound of cell phone notifications. Simply hearing the sound or even the feeling of a vibration can distract students and decrease their ability to focus on their tasks. The issue isn’t simply that “some children and teenagers compulsively use apps like Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram during lessons, distracting themselves and their classmates.” (The New York Times) Studies have also shown that “more than half of public school leaders (53 percent) feel that their students' academic performance has been negatively impacted by cell phone usage.” (National Center for Education Statistics). Cell phones can reduce students' ability to fully engage in class and activities, which can really affect the education that children take in. Therefore, banning cellphones can let students focus better and learn more effectively.
Main Point 2: Cyberbullying
Second, cell phones should be banned in schools because cell phones can cause cyberbullying exposure. * pause * In a class of our size, approximately at least 9 students have likely experienced cyberbullying, and research has shown that about 60% of these incidents happen during school hours, with 85% involving mobile phones. Some students who cyberbully may post lies, rumors, or gossip about the target and encourage others to share and distribute fake information during school hours. Studies have also shown that students use mobile phones to bully or harass other students and staff, and film incidents with their cell phones then post on social media. Some students use their cell phones to send hurtful messages or share embarrassing photos online to other students. This can make other students feel unsafe and unhappy at school. Cyberbullying is an extremely serious issue that many students face, often through social media. Thus, banning cellphones in schools can create a safer environment for students ,and help reduce cyberbullying.
Main Point 3: Health Issues
Finally, cell phones should be banned in schools because cell phones can cause and create health issues. Cell phones can cause cognitive impacts such as (attention, memory) and mental health impacts such as (depression and anxiety). Research shows that smartphones can cause damage to our attention, memory, and ability to learn new concepts due to the way our minds allocate cognitive resources. Students who spend longer on social media with mobile phones also score higher on the depression scale on average. Studies have also shown that “excessive screen time and the blue light emitted by smartphones have been shown to disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue, decreased cognitive function, and even mental health issues.” (South China Morning Post) Therefore, cell phones should be banned in schools.
Addressing Counter Arguments
Some may argue that cell phones provide a measure of safety and that cell phones can be used to do research and learn. However, schools can use other technology devices such as iPads and laptops instead of cell phones to ensure that students wouldn’t be distracted in class. Safety is important, but schools already have comprehensive systems in place. Many school campuses are equipped with CCTVs, intercoms, and staff members who have access to phones and emergency protocols. There are many benefits of banning cellphones in school. Schools have found that students “can engage in classes, have genuine social interactions with friends and teachers, and worry less about what is going on online while they are in school with this phone policy.” (Waring School) This is why I believe that cell phones should be banned in schools.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cell phones should be banned in schools because banning cell phones can create a safer environment and let students focus better and encourage face-to-face conversations. Although cell phones in class may have some benefits for students, it's about choosing the right technology that will help students learn effectively. By making this change, schools can foster a better learning environment and help students grow into well-rounded individuals.