Cell phones in classes: Experts enter into debate on the issue

Should Brazil ban cell phones from classrooms? This is an issue that has gained relevance, especially after countries like the Netherlands, Finland and Franceadopt heavy restrictive measures regarding the use of electronic devices in schools.

While some experts defend the use of these tools as allies in the learning process, others warn of the need for rules and moderation. Let's understand the points on each side below.

Balance, adaptation or banishment?

The president of the Singularidades Institute, Claudia Costin, highlights the importance of a “middle ground” in the debate on the use of electronic devices in the classroom. She emphasizes that students need to develop two types of literacy: one coming from physical books and another from the digital world.

Some European countries have adopted a pedagogical approach to the use of electronics in the classroom, reserving specific moments for their use. Such tools are considered important, with adaptive platforms and gamified solutions incorporated into teaching.

(Image: Shutterstock/Reproduction)

At the Brazil, the use of electronics in schools is still little studied. The manager of educational policies at the NGO Todos Pela Educação, Ana Gardennya Linard, highlights the importance of research on the impact of these technologies on learning, especially after the significant increase in the use of smartphones during pandemic.

She highlights a 2015 Unesco guide that demonstrates how technology can be an ally in the development of education, as long as it is moderated by teachers.

Both experts agree that technology can be beneficial for teaching, but point to the need for control over its use. A national awareness plan on the responsible use of technology in teaching is suggested as an important measure.

However, Ana Linard points out that, before that, the country needs to deal with the issue of inequality in access to technology. During the pandemic, it became evident that many students face learning difficulties, due to the lack of adequate access to electronic devices along with the state's rapid technological advancement.

In short, the debate about the use of cell phones in the classroom requires a balance between the benefits of technologyand the need to impose limits in order to avoid distractions and damage to learning.

In addition, it is crucial to ensure that all students have equal access to technological tools, with the aim of promoting a more inclusive and efficient education for all.