Hasselt (Brussels Morning) – Heidi Melotte a teacher at the Trade School in Hasselt noticed that first graders were using smartphones excessively causing distractions and fights.
Heidi Melotte who’s incharge of first graders at the Trade School in Hasselt noticed big problems with kids using smartphones. Even first graders were using phones during breaks and class, causing lots of issues. The kids’ focus was all over the place because of their phones. They kept looking at their phones instead of paying attention in class. This made it hard for them to concentrate and participate in class activities.
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The kids using phones caused fights and problems among them. They argued more because of the phones and sometimes things got so bad that videos of the fights were shared on social media before things were sorted out. This made it harder to fix the issues and could affect the kids’ friendships and how others see them in the long run. The teacher Melotte saw that phones cause many problems in schools. They mess up how well kids learn and get along with each other.To fix the issue the teachers wanted to try a part-time ban on phones. They planned to collect the phones in the morning and give them back during breaks. They told the students and parents about the plan.
Daan found it hard to get used to the new phone rules at school. It was tough because students were used to having their phones all the time and using them every day. Daan thinks the new rules are actually good. Even though it was hard at first students have gotten used to not having their phones at school. This has helped them pay more attention in class. Because they’re less distracted they’re doing better in school and participating more in lessons. Daan also noticed that without phones there are fewer fights and distractions during breaks. Students are more engaged in talking to each other which helps them communicate better and build stronger friendships. The school feels like a better place to learn and grow because students are not getting off track with their phones.Even though it was tough at first for Daan and his friends to stop using phones it turned out to be a good change. They are more focused have better relationships, and enjoy school more now.
At first some people were surprised by the good results of the new rules. The teachers noticed that in the first week students were quieter, less distracted and more active without their phones. They were also more social during breaks chatting, joking and even exercising together. However, during lunch breaks when they could use their phones they were mostly focused on their screens. The test went so well that they plan to expand it next year. They will even ban phones during lunch for the first-year students to keep improving their social skills.
Daan at first was unsure about the idea,but now he sees the positive changes. There’s more talking, exercising and playing together during breaks. Other students like Aysat feel the same they don’t miss their phones. Aysat says she’s happier being more social with friends without the phone.
