This week, we discussed digital devices and their role in the classroom. When we began this class, I became very aware of my usage of my phone and how much I rely on it for entertainment and to fill the gaps in my day when I am not doing anything. I intentionally moved my phone away from where I was so I could focus on the class and what was being said instead of being distracted by it just being there. I think that this is something that teachers in Middle school would have to deal with as their students get cell phones. This connects to the cell phone ban that has been implemented in SD61 schools.
Take a look at this link of the Code of Conduct Update regarding Cell Phones and Personal Digital Devices
It would be both a distraction and a tool at the age level that I am looking at teaching, Grades 2-4. You can find many tools online that can improve students’ learning and aid in their understanding of certain concepts. However, these devices would need to be monitored so that the students would not navigate away from the app that they are using and use it for other things.