Picture this: A generation obsessed with electronics. Oh, wait, that’s us – generation Z. While cell phones tend to get a negative connotation from adults when linked to kids, adults don’t realize the other benefits that come along with the video games, snapchat stories, and other
“self-absorbed” apps we have.

There are a countless number of educational advantages which can increase shared information, thoughts or even ideas on subjects being learned in school. Kids are able to further blossom as an individual and even more, a student, when it comes to their little friend in their back pocket.

Let’s talk Pros. By students having access to the internet, it can provide instant answers for those in distraught. Being as school is now a search-and-learn environment, students need the ability for an answer if they’re too anxious to ask in class. Students who aren’t familiar with “larger words,” will have access to a digital dictionary without interrupting class discussions.

Children are exposed to a world of information and ideas outside of the so-called “bubble.” With the capability to learn new languages, self-taught opportunities, educational games, etc., there are an endless array of possibilities available that otherwise aren’t exposed to students in a classroom.

Research has proven when students listen to classical or jazz music, they’re able to retain more. So, a student having that ability… in their pocket… can be very beneficial. With teachers allowing this student aid, they can utilize it to effectively advance the classroom with a wider skill-set.

On the other hand, there are concerns about extensive exposure to wireless devices and screens display. Students already spend hours upon hours staring at their screen each day, so additional usage in classrooms can be seen as “harmful.” While schools can restrict websites, many kids find a slip in the system to where they can’t be monitored. Teachers still debate upon the distractions of these devices; the temptation is right at their fingertips. And rather focusing on the lesson at hand, they could be either texting or playing games.

These devices are said to have led to a social disconnect and rather than having face-to-face interactions, people are glued to their screens. While some schools have the means to improve their technological habits, others struggle with “computer-to-student ratio and lack the means to provide economically disadvantaged students with loaners devices so all students have the same access their peers do.”

Let’s reflect. Should classrooms permit digital buddies? Although some schools have greatly improved by doing so, some debate it, a distractor. Yes, it can be, but so can the poster of cats playing poker. There’ll always be distractions, but it’s up to the students to prove their ability to use those distractions in a correct manner.

If schools decide to encourage devices, they obviously need to put some rules in place. While these student aids offer many interactive resources and comprehensive factors, teachers will in turn have to alter their curriculum. But overall it’ll become better for everyone’s collaboration and development.