CHRISTINE LEE ’17

With this year’s addition of iPads to the culture of Prep, students and teachers have formed a differing opinions students playing iPad games during class. While some Prepsters believe that addictive games such as Trivia Crack and Clash of Clans are a distraction to his or her ability to perform in class, the majority of students believe that the possible opportunity to play iPad games during class is a motivator, while most teachers believe that iPad games are distraction to a student’s learning.

Sophomore, Miriam Mayhle explains, “Teachers should trust that students are motivated enough to stay on task without a ban on iPad games. Apps also help me to stay awake and alert in class.” Mayhle and other students believe that the freedom to play games motivate students to finish homework or in class assignments faster so they can play games when they finish.

On the other hand, most teachers believe that putting away the games during class is necessary in order to be successful. When asked about her opinion on iPad games during class, Ms. Forte states, “It’s a problem when students always play the game of the moment, whether it is Trivia Crack or Heads Up, during class”. Ms. Forte understands the draw to games, as she too was addicted to Trivia Crack at one point, but believes that making a responsible and respectful choice in class is something students need to work on.

For students who believe that playing games during class is an issue, and interested in breaking the habit, here are a few ideas. A great idea to prevent the desire to play games is to turn off the notifications and banners games tempt them with.

If a student is committed to quitting playing games in class for good, there are several apps that he or she can download for help. A popular option is the application, Breaking Free. This app tells you what is taking up most of your time on the iPad and how often you are checking your mobile device.