In an effort to combat the growing issue of digital distractions in classrooms, many schools including Marist High School have turned to phone caddies as a solution. These caddies, also known as phone hotels, are designed to store students’ phones during class time.
The caddies are intended to reduce distractions and increase focus on class as well as being used for teachers to take attendance. However, a deeper investigation conducted by MHS Media reveals that this well-intentioned strategy may not be as effective as hoped. The reason? iPads.
Despite phones being away, students still have access to iPads, used for educational purposes. These devices however, come with the same potential for distraction as phones. Social media, games, and messaging apps are just as accessible on iPads, making the intended impact of phone caddies negligible.
The introduction of phone caddies to Marist was seen as a proactive measure to create a more focused learning environment. Teachers and administrators hoped that by removing the immediate temptation of phones, students would be more engaged in class and less likely to be distracted by non-academic activities.
The thought was: out of sight, out of mind. However, this approach failed to consider the use of iPads in the classroom.
While phones are on the walls, iPads still remain on students’ desks, often serving the same purpose as their phones. Many students use their iPads for non-educational activities, such as browsing social media, playing games, or texting friends.
“My phone is like the same thing as an iPad. I feel like the phone caddies really do not make an impact,” said junior Addison Woodward.
A poll conducted by MHS Media shows that 78.3 percent of students at Marist HighSchool think that phone caddies do not make any difference.
“I think the phone caddies definitely keep me off my phone and force me almost to focus on my work more but it’s hard when my IPad is just a bigger version of my phone,” said junior Savannah Weathers.
The larger screen of an iPad can even make it easier for students to hide their activities from teachers, as the device can be positioned to look like it is being used for schoolwork.
“The phone caddies don’t make a difference because some teachers don’t even enforce the caddies and make them put them in the caddies,” said Coach Topps.
One of the core reasons Marist High school started using iPads was for educational purposes along with many other Catholic high schools in the area. However, without strict monitoring and clear guidelines, the temptation to use these devices for non-academic activities is ever-present.
Many students admit to using their iPads for entertainment during class, finding it easier to disguise their activities compared to using their phones. 48.6 percent of students at Marist admit almost every app on their phone is also on their iPad.
The survey found that 68.1% of respondents admitted to using their iPads for non-educational purposes during class time and finding a way around the infamous caddies.
This illustrates the challenge many teachers face in ensuring that digital devices are used appropriately.
Teachers now face the dual challenge of managing both phones and iPads in the classroom. While phone caddies may reduce the usage of smartphones, they do not solve the underlying issue of digital distractions.
Some teachers have come up with other ways to keep students focused on solely schoolwork. Apple Classroom, for example, gives teachers the ability to keep an eye on students’ screens through their iPad.
To really keep students on track, schools need to reevaluate their approach to digital devices. This may involve implementing stricter digital policies, such as limiting access to certain apps and websites during school hours, or using monitoring software to track students’ activities.
While phone caddies are a step towards minimizing distractions, they fall short in the face of iPads. Schools having the idea that students will use iPads solely for academic purposes is illogical, and the reality is that these devices can be just as distracting as phones.
