The Challenge When I first heard about Taiwan’s new policy banning high school students and younger from using phones in class starting September 2025, I admit I had mixed feelings. As an adult, I see the constant pull of smartphones everywhere—on the train, in meetings, even at the dinner table. I understand how difficult it is to resist the urge to check notifications. So when I learned that students would have to hand their phones over to schools during class, my first thought was: That’s a big ask for anyone, let alone teenagers. Yet the more I reflected on it, the more I realized that this policy might be a necessary step—not just for students, but as a lesson for all of us on focus, discipline, and personal growth. Watching the younger generation grapple with screens made me think about my own habits and how easily technology can fragment attention. It also made me wonder: what would happen if we all, adults included, embraced the challenge of unplugging—even temporarily? Long-Term Growth From an adult perspective, it’s easy to see why schools would implement such a policy. Phones are designed to distract. Notifications, social media feeds, short videos—they all compete for attention. I watch my own friends and colleagues struggle to stay present because of these constant interruptions. And for teenagers, whose self-control and executive function are still developing, the effect is even more pronounced. Students can’t just “decide” to ignore their phones; they need the environment to support focus. I see this clearly when I interact with young people: their attention spans are fragmented, even during important lessons. A policy that removes these distractions may seem strict, but it provides the structure they need to thrive. I also understand the concerns of students. Many teenagers feel that their phones are extensions of themselves, their personal property, and essential tools for communication and safety. I respect that. In my own life, I rely on my phone for coordination, emergencies, and even just to stay in touch with friends and family. So I can empathize with the frustration students feel when their autonomy is temporarily limited. But I also believe that some boundaries—especially during critical periods like learning—can create more freedom in the long run. Embracing the Policy The real question, I think, is about what we value. Do we value constant entertainment and instant connection? Or do we value focus, depth, and personal growth? Watching students navigate this policy made me reflect on my own habits. I realized how often I let notifications interrupt my work, how frequently I multitask to my own detriment, and how much more productive and calm I feel when I step away from my phone. Observing this in young people reinforced what I already suspected: uninterrupted time allows people—of any age—to focus, engage, and learn more meaningfully. Immediate Benefits Focus is a skill, not just a natural ability. Adults often assume that children must learn it on their own, but the truth is that developing attention takes guidance, structure, and practice. By removing phones from the classroom, schools are creating an environment where students can actually practice focus. I watch how sustained attention benefits their learning: comprehension improves, retention increases, and the ability to think critically strengthens. It’s remarkable to see how even a small reduction in digital distractions can change the quality of engagement. Confidence is another area where I see immediate impact. Focused attention allows students to complete tasks more thoroughly, and completing tasks gives a sense of accomplishment. Adults understand this: nothing boosts confidence like finishing something well. Observing students gain confidence from working without phones reminded me of my own experiences when I’ve unplugged—whether during meetings, workshops, or personal projects. That sense of mastery translates into self-reliance, independence, and even improved social skills. I’ve noticed that students who are less attached to their phones during class are more willing to participate in discussions, collaborate with peers, and engage fully with the material. The psychological benefits are significant. When students learn to delay gratification and manage impulses, they develop resilience and self-awareness—skills that will serve them far beyond the classroom. This isn’t just about academic performance; it’s about cultivating life skills. Strategies everyone can apply I also see opportunities for practical strategies. If I were advising students—or reflecting on my own habits as an adult—I would suggest:
These strategies may sound simple, but I’ve seen how effective they can be. They remind me that both students and adults benefit from structured focus, intentionality, and the courage to step away from constant stimulation. Ultimately, my perspective as an adult has shifted through observing this policy in action. I see that challenges, even ones that initially feel restrictive, can be opportunities for growth. Students learn focus, build confidence, and develop life skills; adults are reminded of the value of attention, patience, and self-discipline. Living without phones—even temporarily—teaches lessons that no device can replace. Conclusion In the end, life without phones in school isn’t about restriction—it’s about empowerment. It’s about giving students the tools to manage themselves, develop focus, and gain confidence. And it’s a lesson for adults too: sometimes stepping back, unplugging, and committing to focus can unlock a version of ourselves we didn’t realize existed. Watching this unfold has reminded me that challenges are only obstacles if we resist them. If we embrace them, we discover what we’re truly capable of—both in the classroom and beyond. Latest EpisodeIn this week’s episode,C#49 學生手機禁令上路：各界看法大不同 (Xuéshēng shǒujī jìnlìng shànglù: gèjiè kànfǎ dà bùtóng) I dive into a policy that’s shaking up Taiwan’s schools: starting September 2025, high school students and younger will no longer be allowed to use their phones in class. Schools will collect phones and manage them centrally. When this news hit, reactions were everywhere—parents, teachers, and students all have opinions… Listen to the latest Podcast Phrase of the Week適可而止 (Shì kě ér zhǐ)Meaning: Know when to stop / Moderation is key Sample Sentences:
Shǐyòng shǒujī yīnggāi shì kě ér zhǐ, cáinéng jiāngù yúlè yǔ xuéxí. Phone usage should be kept in moderation to balance entertainment and learning.
Fùmǔ jiào háizi shí yào shì kě ér zhǐ, bùyào guòdù gānshè. Parents should know when to stop when guiding children, without over-interfering.
Wán yóuxì yào shì kě ér zhǐ, cáinéng bìmiǎn shàng yǐn. lay games in moderation to avoid addiction.
Tǎolùn wèntí shí shì kě ér zhǐ, kěyǐ bìmiǎn zhēngchǎo. Know when to stop during discussions to prevent arguments. |
