The cliché that teenagers love technology practically dates back to when the wheel was invented.
In the 21st century, smartphones have nonstop internet access, texting, and still have calling. At least 73 percent of teens have them.
With schools looking for new technology for more impactful learning, why are they telling their students to leave their devices at the door?
For the growing percentage of schools who have a bring your own device (BYOD) program, it’s an obvious solution to kids bringing in electronics they were going to use whether teachers want them to or not.
Without realizing it, students see their mobile devices as more of an educational tool than a toy. For many school districts, a BYOD program is necessary to get technology into the hands of thousands of students.
Students and teachers can plan dynamic learning experiences and have freedom in the classroom. BYOD also helps play into a growing cultural shift that’s much needed by schools.
BALANCING SMARPHONE ACCESS AND EDUCATIONAL PRIORITIES
While mobile devices in the classroom can be distracting, they have huge potential for learning.
Establishing a realistic policy is a good first step. Having rules like “no headphones” or “no cell phones during lecture” are important, but letting them use the phone for reminders, assignments and whatnot can get the urge to use it out of their systems and be beneficial to the school.
As with all digital tools, smartphones in the classroom can be effective if they are used to enhance learning and support curriculum, says Mindy Frisbee, ISTE’s director of alignment.
“Digital tools need to really move the teaching forward,” says Frisbee. “Devices can help students access resources that might not be available in the classroom.”
BYOD is ever growing, and it looks like it could really be the next big thing in educational advancements.