Months after cellphone ban, how are students doing?
Tiffany Mongu | CBC News | Posted: November 3, 2024 10:00 AM | Last Updated: 5 hours ago
Two months after the cell phone ban, high school students share their perspectives on the new policy.
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The Ontario government implemented a classroom cell phone ban in September, mandating restrictions for students of all grades, including high school students.
For students in Grade 7 to Grade 12, cell phone usage is only permitted in class when explicitly authorized by an educator or when students have documented special education or medical needs.
So far, some students report adapting well to the absence of their smartphones during class, stating that it fosters greater concentration and focus on their studies.
Kenlynn Harvie, a Grade 11 student, expressed that attending classes without her cell phone has proven manageable, but the limited access to social media applications like TikTok and Snapchat has been challenging. “I feel like the worst part is that my school kind of banned like Tik Tok and Snapchat. That’s fine during in-class periods [because] it does help students focus,” she reflected.
“But during lunches it’s kind of a pain. That’s the biggest issue I’ve had with it,” she added, highlighting the social challenges posed by the restrictions.
By reducing the temptation to constantly check her smartphone, she finds it significantly easier to concentrate while learning. “I do take a lot more hand-written notes in class, [because] sometimes during class, I didn’t want to take out a book or something to write in. I would just write it in my notes app or take a picture,” Kenlynn explained.
Mental health improving without social media distraction
Research has consistently demonstrated that excessive social media exposure among children and teens adversely impacts their mental health.
Before the implementation of the ban, educators across Ontario prioritized minimizing distractions and enhancing the mental well-being of students in classrooms.
Samantha Viera, a Grade 11 student at London Central Secondary School, noted that not fretting about external pressures while at school has significantly improved her mental state. “Just [because] I am not taking [out] my phone all the time, [it] has helped me kind of like not worry too much about what’s going on outside of school which I think I’ve seen a difference in that,” she shared.
When discussing peer interactions, both students acknowledged that cyberbullying is an unfortunate reality in high school environments, yet the limitations on social media and cellphone use has contributed to a more peaceful atmosphere. “It has been relatively calm around which is very nice to see,” said Samantha.
**Interview with Kenlynn Harvie, Grade 11 Student on Cell Phone Ban Impact**
*Host:* Welcome, Kenlynn! Thanks for joining us today to discuss the effects of the cell phone ban in classrooms. It’s been a couple of months since the policy was put in place. How have you been adjusting to it?
*Kenlynn Harvie:* Thank you for having me! Honestly, I was surprised at how manageable it has been. At first, I thought I wouldn’t be able to concentrate without my phone, but I’ve actually found it easier to focus on my classes.
*Host:* That’s interesting! So, you’re saying that the absence of your phone has improved your concentration?
*Kenlynn Harvie:* Yes, exactly! Without the temptation to check my messages or scroll through social media, I’m more engaged with the lessons and discussions. It’s made a difference in my grades too.
*Host:* That’s great to hear! However, you mentioned some challenges. Can you elaborate on what you miss the most?
*Kenlynn Harvie:* For me, the hardest part is not being able to access social media apps like TikTok and Snapchat during school hours. Social media is a big part of my life, and the ban makes me feel a bit disconnected from my friends and what’s trending.
*Host:* It sounds like you’re feeling the social aspect of your phone ban. Have you found any ways to stay connected with your friends during school?
*Kenlynn Harvie:* We’ve started using our break times to chat in person more. It’s nice to catch up face-to-face, but it can’t fully replace the instant nature of texting or messaging on social media.
*Host:* It’s great that you’re adapting! Given your experience, do you think the benefits of this ban outweigh the drawbacks?
*Kenlynn Harvie:* I think so. While I miss my apps, I really appreciate being able to focus better in class. I believe it fosters a better learning environment overall. It’s just important to find a balance where we can stay connected without distractions.
*Host:* Important insights, Kenlynn! Thank you for sharing your experiences and perspectives on the cell phone ban in schools. It’s always enlightening to hear from students directly affected by these policies.
*Kenlynn Harvie:* Thank you for having me! I hope more students can find ways to adapt and benefit from this change.