As of the first day of school, August 26^th, Prince George’s County Public Schools announced their change in cell phone policy by allowing kids to use cell phones in the classroom.

The DC schools decided they would take a more relaxed approach to the use of cellphones. They would allow the kids to use them not only in the hallways and cafeteria, but also in the classroom.

This approach of allowing cell phones in the classroom surely isn’t traditional teaching. Teachers will not be standing at the front of the classroom writing down information on the chalkboard anymore while students listen. Instead, students will be more interactive and leading more of the conversations.

When asked what the students thought about this new policy, assistant Principal William Blake of Henry A. Wise, of the Prince George’s County Public Schools, said, “They were ecstatic.” But, this new way of teaching  has sparked many concerning thoughts and questions:

Allowing kids to bring phones could open the door to inappropriate use and distraction.

How will teachers monitor their cell phone use?

Parents that put limits on cell phones may not agree with school’s cell phone policy.

What if not all kids have phones? Parents may now feel pressured to get their kids one.

Although cell phones are now allowed in the hallways, cafeteria and classrooms, these schools believe it will be highly beneficial. They won’t be able to text, surf, talk, or access the media during class time. If there aren’t enough tablets in the classroom, students have the option to use their cell phone in the classroom. Using their cellphones also allows students to work on collaborative projects at any time of day because of the apps they will be using.

Edmodo – where students and teachers connect to collaborate on assignments, share content, access homework, and discover new resources.

Poll Everywhere – creates live polls directly in PowerPoint.

Dropbox – collects, shares and distributes materials and photos.

Apps for reminders and social science and history resources

Integrating cellphones in the classroom can be a major distraction, but Prince George’s County Public Schools believes, if done right, cell phones can be a tool a good instructor can add to their toolbox.