Since September, the Ontario government has banned the use of cell phones in classrooms, including high schools.
So far, the students interviewed say they are adapting well to this new reality, because it helps them to remain attentive.
The hardest part is that my school banned TikTok and Snapchat. But it’s OK during class, because it really helps students concentrate, says Kenlynn Harvie, a Grade 11 student from the London, Ont., area.
But during lunch time, it’s a bit annoying. That’s the biggest problem I have with this rule, she adds.
However, without the constant need to check your smartphone, it is easier to concentrate in class, she explains.
I take a lot more notes by hand in class. Before, I didn’t always want to take out a notebook to write. I took my notes in the Notes app or took a photo, she says.
An effect on mental health
Research has shown over time that excessive exposure to social media among children and adolescents leads to negative effects on their mental health.
For Samantha Vieira, also a high school student in the London area, not having to worry about the outside world during classes is positive.
Just not having my phone out all the time helps me worry less about what’s going on outside of school. I really see a difference, she says.
What about cyberbullying?
When it comes to peer-to-peer cyberbullying, both students say that while it’s unavoidable in high school, the limited use of social media and cell phones has improved the situation.
It’s relatively quiet these days, which is very nice to see, says Samantha Vieira.
For students in grades 7 to 12, cell phones can only be used if the teacher gives permission or if the student has special educational or health needs.
According to information from CBC
