Cell phone restrictions have been increasing with the increased use and distribution of cellular devices. Most deadly are the effects found in schools where students are supposed to be studying, but would rather chit chat about their weekend plans, last weekend’s events, or who’s dating who. At St. Ansgar School in Iowa, cell phone distractions are a major theme of debate. The school board proposed jamming cell phone signals in schools to eliminate the attention diverter. Due to public outcry and even more serious legal issues, the plan was abandoned. According to a story from the Chicago Tribune, “only the FCC has the legal right to jam cell phone signals.” Many schools, including my own, have cell phone bans in place that restrict mobile presence on campus. This rule seems totally reasonable, but the trouble is that it is nowhere near effective. Children continue to bring cell phones on campus and use them as a substitute to paying attention and doing class work. Listed by the source at the bottom, below is a list of negative side effects of cell phone use:

They are a source of distraction for an already distracted generation of learners

They can aid in academic dishonesty (cheating)

They can infringe on one’s privacy (taking photos/video while the subject is unaware)

They can deteriorate writing, speaking, and other linguistic skills (i.e. txtspeak)

They are often a means of spreading gossip and rumors (both of which are starting points for bullying and harassment)

They can demonstrate clearer disparities between socioeconomic groups (i.e. the brand/model of the phone, the type of calling plan, etc.), which is another source of bullying and harassment

They can lead to dependent/addictive behaviors

That cell phones cause “socioeconomic groups differences” is a little delusional. The others listed are correct, but a tad bit exaggerated. We’ll see where legalities with cell phone use in schools lead. Regardless, it will be a slow fight.

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