How cellphones impact the learning environment at SUA

By Rebecca Tittl

In this technology-centric generation, students and teachers at Saint Ursula Academy must grapple with the inclusion of cell phones in a learning environment.

Technology has changed a lot in recent years, so school policy and teaching styles must adapt along with it. As cell phones have become a staple in teens' personal lives, they have begun appearing in the classroom. 

Saint Ursula Academy's cell phone policy is clearly stated in the student handbook.

"Cell phones are not permitted in classrooms, Sorelle, The Learning Commons, Mass, assemblies, class meetings, or Detention."

While these rules are outlined clearly, many teachers and students have begun to see the benefit of cell phone usage in the classroom. Cell phones can be used as a learning device and a calculator, and they can even help students stay organized by using reminder apps and online planners. Phones can also be used to stay up to date on grades and alert students of any missing assignments they might have.

When asked what she would change about SUA's cellphone policy, SUA sophomore Julia Olstad said the policy should be that- "you can use it but for educational purposes."

Olstad also noted a change in the overall mood of a class when phones are taken away: "You can tell, everyone gets more quiet," she said.

Olstad says that some classes, such as Leadership and Theology, can benefit from a phone-free environment due to their more discussion-based nature. Still, the benefits of cell phones are difficult to overlook in some cases, such as using reference photos in art and even taking photos of notes on a whiteboard in math.

While many have seen the benefits of cell phones in the classroom, some teachers still see cell phone usage as a deficit in students' learning experiences.

Elizabeth Porter, a 14-year chemistry teacher at SUA, shares her experience with both allowing and confiscating cell phones in classrooms. "The cellphone itself has evolved… we are also evolving with how it fits in," Porter said when asked if the cellphone issue has worsened in recent years.

When asked about the benefits and other uses of cell phones in class, Porter responded, "We have other tools, and I think the bigger value is… making my class one where students have a break from their cell phones."

Porter also noted that many of her students have appreciated being away from their phones for a while.

"I don't think that it is a student problem. It is a human problem," said Porter.

With the ever growing and changing technological landscape of the modern world, it is important to embrace new tools and opportunities while also preserving an educational environment within school hours.