The "Screenager" Epidemic

Technology. A highly advanced invention that has taken the entire world by storm in a never-ending, vast network of information, games, artificial intelligence, photos, and videos. As the world and society evolve, so will technology, resulting in either a beneficial or harmful effect on the future, especially for the growing minds of young adolescents. Statistics from The National Library of Medicine claim that “around 95% of teenagers aged 13-17 have access to a phone, and at least 79% bring one to school.” As the number increases, parents and teachers continue to insist that teenagers are just a bunch of phone-fanatic zombies, but is this actually true? 

In an environment where learning levels are varied, having information right at people’s fingertips if the material gets confusing or hard to understand is extremely useful. Not only does the internet hold so many answers, but certain apps are designed to help students better comprehend what they are being taught. According to the Pew Research Center, “70% of teenagers in the U.S. said in a survey that phones are more advantageous than not while the other 30% said the opposite.” 

Banning students from bringing their phones to school cuts off any communication they have with their parents, limiting the resources they have to keep in contact during emergencies within the building. Sophomore Cecilia Brinton comments, “We need phones during school to contact people and I like to know what’s going on.” Staying in touch with friends is a critical part of a teenager’s life and with phones, being closer to them by texts, calls, social media and more can keep people updated on what is happening with them. 

Another important aspect to consider is languages as they can be a barrier of communication and connection. It’s estimated that there are around 7,000 languages spoken worldwide according to BBC and having translation services on mobile phones for students is a handy tool. However, East has become quite lenient with technology and how to deal with the problem of keeping students focused during class. If phones are being taken away, there are always students using their computers to play games to pass the time or sneak their phones into class. There is no solid restriction to compensate for the online distractions, only simple procedures like hangers on the door, plastic tubs, or even no rules at all. 

The DPS School Board decided not to focus on cell phone restriction leaving it to the teachers at East to decide on what should be done with phones. DPS School Board member John Youngquist speculates, “If the school or the teachers can agree to implement a restriction they think will actually work and have students comply with, that’s how the cell phone issue might be resolved.” Modern day technology is a powerful gadget to have access to, but is it worth the sake of physical connection and mental health? 

The human race depends on meeting people, working together, having face-to-face conversations, and spending time with each other (Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History). Being able to send a quick message without talking in person takes away from the friendly interactions that can happen daily. It’s much harder to make small talk between teenagers nowadays for fear of judgement, lack of confidence, and the classic “look on my phone and at social media or random things because it’s awkward sitting here in silence” move. Not only is it hard with other people the same age but it conditions teens to have a tough time interacting with teachers along with pretty much anyone they’re not comfortable with. 

Of course, most topics will always have some controversy surrounding it, however, looking at it from both perspectives can help our insight on it further. Regarding phones in school, the staff can decide whether or not restrictions on them are tighter and students can choose if their education matters more than their devices. If learning is an essential part of life, it begs the question; how will technology affect young adolescents and their education in the future?