Don’t be “cellfish”

Miryam Fajardo, Staff Writer

Throughout the years cell phones have become extremely popular and are now used on a day to day basis, become a necessity to mankind,  but more specifically students or youths. Now anywhere you go, you can see how people can’t seem to take their eyes off their devices, which causes issues within educational systems.

As soon as students arrive in classrooms, they are asked to put their devices away, however, they struggle with the temptation of getting their hands back on their devices and getting back on social media. Students focus more on what’s going on in their social life rather than focusing on the lesson. It’s almost impossible for a student to be able to divide their attention between their teachers and their phone, resulting in a loss of information. They are a distraction from schoolwork. Furthermore, cell phones make it easier for students to cheat during a test or exam. Now it’s even possible for students to find answer keys to any test they may need and send it to other classmates.

In addition, they are also causing students to disconnect from the real world. It has become normal to see our new generations attached to their electronics at any time throughout the day, which may also lead to health problems. Studies have shown that modern screens produce a blue light that is known to cause damage to one’s vision and may increase the risks of macular degeneration and will cause an overall lack of focus. According to scientists cell phones also expose people to a form of electromagnetic radiation also known as radio frequency energy which can possibly cause cancer.

Although phones may not be the best device for students to use throughout school, they are however beneficiary. Phones are a great research tool which allows students to have more access to information, such as books. This is because it provides a wider access to information, whenever students have any questions or concerns they can simply look up it up and it will be available. They are able to complete homework online and get in contact with teachers and students if they have any questions.

Phones have proven to be a successful learning tool. They are able to make learning more fun and interacting. Phones enable students to learn outside school hours. This is beneficial to students who may not have any other type of electronic device at home. In addition, they can also be used as agendas to students, reminding them of any homework or assignment they may need to complete. Overall cell phones aren’t bad if students become aware of how to use them responsibly. Students should be educated on the right ways to take advantage of these electronics as well as would it would be an appropriate time to use them.