Thoughtful Problem #8 - Some teachers have complained of students listening to iPods and text messaging on their cell phones during class. Students believe the offenders should be punished, but all students should not have to pay for the misbehavior of a few. As Technology Coordinator, you are asked to develop a school policy to address student use of portable electronic devices. In three-to-five paragraphs, describe the two points of view and the reasons to be more restrictive or less restrictive of portable electronic devices. Conclude with your policy recommendation to the school board and the reasons for your specific recommendation.
Response:
Portable electronic devices often bring controversy in a K-12 environment. There are two points of view that can be looked at. I will look at each viewpoint in detail and then I will present a recommendation that will hopefully satisfy both parties.
The first viewpoint is that the devices do not belong in school. The devices serve as distractions and students often become distracted with the devices. In addition, because these devices are often communication devices, students may be tempted to use them in an inappropriate manner. Cell phones often have cameras built in. Students could quickly and discretely take a picture of an exam that will be given to other students later in the day. Also, students may be listening to answers or hints on their MP3 players while we may think they are listening to music. Furthermore, who is to say it is appropriate to listen to music while in class. For many, music is a distraction and will only hurt their progress in class.
The second viewpoint is that the devices have an educational value and that they should be allowed. Many schools are looking at podcasting as a learning tool. Also, many libraries are beginning to offer audio books to be checked out just like a paper bound book. These type of uses may well require portable devices. As for cell phones, many parents often state that they are a safety mechanism for their children. In the event of an emergency, students and parents can communicate quickly. Any mention of banning the devices in the building will certainly bring instant complaints.
As a recommended policy, the district should look to keep individuals from both viewpoints somewhat satisfied. Doing so is easier said than done. First, when it comes to cell phones, students should be allowed to carry them into the building but they should be prohibited from being used during the day. If a student is observed using the device, it should be taken for the remainder of the period. If a student is caught using the device to cheat or help others, standard disciplinary action should be taken. As for MP3 players, the district can satisfy the need for audio books by purchasing several devices and checking out the device along with the audio book. The storage size should be small to help bring the cost down. If the student loses the device, they would be required to pay for it, similar to an obligation for a book. As for personal MP3 players, I recommend they be prohibited from being used in the classroom. Podcasting does not require a portable device to work. Personal MP3 players have no real educational value. These recommendations should be added to the district's Acceptable Use Policy and should be strictly enforced.
2 comments:
“Many schools are looking at podcasting as a learning tool.”
“Personal MP3 players have no real educational value.”
I saw your ambivalent feeling towards MP3 players. But I agree with you that MP3 player is a portable device and it should be prohibited in the classroom. Since I believe Internet-centered application will dominate the educational technology in the future. I would support the view of podcasting as a learning tool. In order to help students concentrate in the class content, they should be suggested not bring iPod something like to the classroom. Instead, they are suggested to use iPod after class/at home to download and listen to educational podcastings from Internet.
Sound policy Michael. I like the idea of providing a few MP3 players to the library so that if a student/or availability of a audio book allows for download then the students can check out and be responsible for that devise. As for cell phones I agree also and would recommend that they should be away or left in lockers during the school day. I don’t really see the need for these devises in the school they are designed and driven for communication and entertainment. Temptation is too great & I don’t think allowing this devise in school pants a realistic picture of what student will encounter in the real world.
Post a Comment