The Impact of Phones on Students at School

“Phones away. Eyes up!”

The reminders echo through classrooms every day as teachers try to compete with glowing screens and buzzing notifications. As phones have become a constant presence in schools, students and teachers are sharing how phone use affects learning, focus and communication during the school day.

Teachers have noticed that phones can easily distract students during classes. Spanish teacher Cristina Montañola Hernández speaks about how phone use changes the classroom environment.

“When students are on their phones,it’s harder for them to stay focused and pay attention to class. I really think that putting the phones away helps students stay engaged and follow along with lessons,” she said.

Students also reflected on their own experiences with phone use at school. Freshman Aria Akmal shared that “Sometimes I don’t realize how distracted i am untill i put my phone away.”

Other students feel it is useful, but should be limited sometimes when they use it a lot in class time.

“Phones are very helpful for checking assigments or any reminders, but during lessons I think they can make it harder to concentrate,” said freshman Hanifa Sumbal.

Some students believe phone rules create a better learning space.

“When everyone puts their phones away, then class feels very focused and people pay attention to each other,” said junior Valeria Saez.

At the same time students understand the importance of having phones when it is necessary.

“I like knowing I have my phone in case of an emergency,but I understand why teachers want us to use it during class,” freshman Clementine Sheehan said.

As phones continue to be a part of our lives, finding a balance between technology and learning remains important. All students and teachers should balance this, and this responsibility with the phones use can help create a more productive classroom environment in classes.