Assam: The recent news from Sivasagar, Assam emphasizes on ban on teachers using mobile in classroom and the disciplinary action followed in case of non-compliance. The strict guidelines were imposed by the Inspector of Schools, Deva Jyoti Gogoi to maintain discipline and ensure an undisturbed academic atmosphere. But is the ban necessary in educational institutes in such times when mobile phones have been integrated in every step of education?
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Teachers using Mobile in Classroom: Sivasagar
To maintain discipline and proceed with an uninterrupted learning environment, the Office of the Inspector of Schools in the Sivasagar District Circle issued a directive on 10th February 2025 restricting the use of mobile phones by teachers during class hours. The directive addresses the concerns in the lower primary (LP), middle English (ME), middle vernacular (MV), high school, and higher secondary schools in the district, after receiving reports of misuse of mobile phones by teachers for personal reasons in the classroom.
However, the directive highlights an important point regarding certain conditions wherein the usage of mobile phones are permitted i.e. apart from specific academic purposes such as attendance recording or other educational activities, the use shall not be permitted. If it is absolutely required, prior notice and approval must be taken from the head of the institution. If any teacher fails to comply to the rules, disciplinary actions will be taken.
Are Mobile Phones Ruining Classroom Discipline?
Technology can distract students and teachers alike. Thus, it is a high possibility that they may become disengaged from their primary role too. As teachers are expected to be the role model, any inappropriate behavior may encourage students to do the same. Moreover, the ethical concerns of using phones in the classroom cannot be overlooked.
However, mobile phones have become a valuable tool for teaching. Schools often make use of the gadget for urgent communication, academic purposes such as attendance record, grading, classroom management etc. In such a scenario, the usage of mobile phones and technology cannot be undermined. Thus, a balance must be created in order to create a better learning sphere for students and teachers.
Opinion of the Masses
Analyzing the situation, the educators and parents are in favor of the decision. They believe in limiting the teachers using mobile in classroom to improve the quality of education and reduction of distractions. Even school principals and heads of institutions have expressed their support for the move as there have been increased cases of teachers using mobile in classroom, defying the basic classroom etiquette and decorum.
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