Carl Andrei Garcia- St Thomas

The Benefits of Banning Smartphones on School Premises

In the age of smartphones, their widespread use in schools has become
a topic of debate. While some argue that smartphones are essential tools
for communication and learning, others believe that they pose a significant
threat to students' academic performance, safety, and overall well-being.
As a Prefect of Discipline, I strongly believe that banning smartphones in
schools is the best course of action. In this essay, I will present three
compelling reasons why smartphones should be prohibited in schools.

Firstly, one of the most significant drawbacks of smartphones is their

potential to distract students in the classroom. According to a study by
Common Sense Media, 50% of teenagers admitted to using their phones
during class time, with 25% stating that they use their phones for non-
academic purposes. This disturbing trend has a negative impact on
academic performance as it hinders students' focus and concentration. By
banning smartphones in school, we can ensure that students remain
focused and engaged in their studies.

Secondly, another major concern regarding smartphones is their

potential to compromise student safety. Cyberbullying is a growing issue
among teenagers, with 34% of students reporting being victims of
cyberbullying according to a study by the National Center for Education
Statistics. Smartphones provide an easy avenue for cyberbullying as they
allow for instant messaging and social media interactions. By banning
smartphones in school, we can minimize the risk of cyberbullying and
promote a safe and healthy learning environment for all students.

Finally, excessive smartphone use has been linked to poor mental

health outcomes among teenagers. A study by the Royal Society for Public
Health found that social media and smartphone use were associated with
increased levels of anxiety, depression, and poor sleep patterns among
teenagers. By banning smartphones in school, we can promote healthy
habits and encourage students to prioritize their mental health over their
digital devices.

Some argue that banning smartphones in schools may hinder students'

ability to access important information and resources for their studies. For
example, students may need to use their smartphones to access online
textbooks, educational apps, or research materials. However, this
counterclaim can be addressed by providing alternative solutions such as
school-issued laptops or tablets that students can use during class time.
These devices can be equipped with educational software and resources
that are specifically tailored to the school's curriculum, ensuring that
students have access to the necessary tools and resources for their studies
without the distraction of personal smartphones. Additionally, schools can
provide access to printers and other resources that allow students to print
 out important documents and resources as needed. By implementing these
alternative solutions, we can ensure that students have access to the
resources they need while minimizing the distraction and potential risks
associated with personal smartphone use in school.

In conclusion, while some may argue that smartphones are essential

tools for communication and learning, I strongly believe that the benefits of
banning them outweigh the drawbacks. Smartphones are a major
distraction in the classroom, pose a significant threat to student safety, and
have been linked to poor mental health outcomes among teenagers. By
banning smartphones in school, we can ensure that students remain
focused and engaged in their studies, promote a safe and healthy learning
environment for all students, and promote healthy habits that will benefit
them both academically and personally.

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