93% parents say learning apps improve children’s performance
However, most city schools continue to have zero tolerance for smart phones in classrooms
A new survey by a private education solutions
provider has revealed that students might learn faster via technology such as
smart phones, as it helps them understand complex topics better. But most
parents and schools in Mumbai prefer devices such as tabs or laptops as they
fear phones might distract students.
Close to 93% of the 1.8 lakh respondents to
the survey reported an improvement in their scholastic performance after using
mobile applications for studying. While 92% respondents said the children
studied on their own using the apps.
Schools and parents, however, are divided
over the benefits of using mobile phones in the classroom. RN Podar School,
Santacruz, for instance, follows a flipped model of learning in which lectures
are delivered through short videos — on their own devices including smart
phones — to be viewed before or after school. But students are not allowed to
use them in class.
Principal Avnita Bir, said that they found
the ‘bring your own device’ policy to be distracting and time consuming. “You
lose cohesion and time in the classroom if everyone is immersed in their own
device,” she said.
Addiction to technology and misuse of phones
are other concerns keeping schools from embracing mobile phones. “The chances
of students misusing the phones are more than they learning anything from it,”
said Albin Anthony, chief operating officer, Sacred Heart School, Kalyan.
Schools said that using smart phones even
affects the writing abilities of the students. “We face a lot of problems such
as students unable to spell words correctly or follow grammar. They use mobile
lingo in exam,” said Kavita Aggarwal, chief academic advisor, JBCN
International School, Oshiwara, which doesn’t allow mobiles for students or
teachers.
Most schools, however, continue to sport a
‘zero tolerance’ policy to smart phones. At Bombay Cambridge School, Andheri
East, only senior students are allowed to carry mobiles to the classrooms but
they can’t be used during lessons.
“Students do not get authentic information
online and so it cannot be used for studying,” said Savita Venkat, principal of
the state board and international sections of the school.
Source | Hindustan Times | 21 December 2016
Regards
Pralhad
Jadhav
Senior
Manager @ Library
Khaitan & Co
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