All I was saying is that from what you've said previously, you have no idea what a teenager needs a cell phone for and I think it's because when you were that age you didn't have them so you don't know how important they actually are.</strong><hr></blockquote>
I don't think you know realize how unnecessary cell phones are. Do you really think that the way people interact with eachother and the manner in which one learns in school has changed that dramatically over the past 3 years? I don't mean to alarm you but people even went to school before email and computers. Adding more distraction to the school environment isn't necessary nor is it even a good thing.
edit: damn, grover and I were typing at the same time
groverat, you just keep taking the words right out my mouth my good man.
I remember 9/11 here in NY, no one get through on their cell phones because every one was using them at the same time. It didn't matter if it was a "real" emergency or not. The system just got overloaded, period.
[quote]I remember 9/11 here in NY, no one get through on their cell phones because every one was using them at the same time. It didn't matter if it was a "real" emergency or not. The system just got overloaded, period.<hr></blockquote>
You don't understand, seb, 14 year old just NEED those phones!
I'm shocked human teenagers survived thousands of years without them!
[quote]A 14-year-old with a cell phone is indicative of how rich and spoiled this society is. Kids whine about having to settle for a car that is 5-6 years old, at 16 they drive them while yapping about bullshit on a cell phone.<hr></blockquote>
A lot of cell phones are free with service. It's not like every teenager has a three hundred dollar Ericcson. We're talking ~$60 here, max. Not a huge deal. That's what a pair of sneakers costs these days.
[quote]They're not free, your parents are paying a monthly bill so you can annoy people in public.<hr></blockquote>
Every post you stray farther and farther from reality grat. Cell phones are not designed to annoy people.
[quote]It's not a "big deal" in that I'm going to come over to your house and hide your cell phone, but it's a "big deal" in that it's amazingly annoying to everyone that isn't the one being called or talking on the phone.<hr></blockquote>
I don't have a cell phone. I don't give a shit when other kids use their cell phones. I am pretty tolerant. There are a million other things in the world that annoy me more. A guy outside the school who just missed the bus calling his parents on a cell phone does not bother me the slightest. More annoying is when some jerk feels the need to use the only public phone for one square mile to discuss his personal future.
[quote]At 15 I was listening to Kurt Cobain sing "Rape Me", at 15 your folks were listening to N'Sync sing "Bye, Bye, Bye".<hr></blockquote>
Please do not stereotype. Thanks.
[quote]That's the entire point, young teens don't need a $150 appliance that costs ~$30+/mth to maintain whose only purpose is image and sparse communication.<hr></blockquote>
Once again, very few people I know have a cell phone that cost them over $50. Some people also get a sort of "family rate" or something to keep costs down. But the cost is not relevant to whether it should be allowed in school or not.
[quote]I don't think you know realize how unnecessary cell phones are. Do you really think that the way people interact with eachother and the manner in which one learns in school has changed that dramatically over the past 3 years? I don't mean to alarm you but people even went to school before email and computers. Adding more distraction to the school environment isn't necessary nor is it even a good thing.<hr></blockquote>
Nobody is placing calls during classes. I don't see how you view a cell phone used for making after school arangements a distraction. Stop with the whole thing about "you 'younguns are spoiled brats dependent on technology". So kids went to school before those distractions known as email and computers? We better ban those! Come on. What's with everyone hating the current generation?
The point is: Cell phones are useful. Whether you think they are too expensive is your call, but I fail to see how one detracts from the learning experience. Nobody is fondling their cell phone in class or playing snake during a test. Why should they be banned?
Oh, young grasshoppers, one day you will see the light.
I used to love talking on the phone with friends, and at one point, my cell phone was a novelty (I've had a cell phone for almost 5 years, now).
Since then, I've come to realize that with my busy college schedule, I don't want to be on the phone all the time. Sure, I could use my cell phone to call every one about everything all the time, but I don't want to. I used to, though.
Your lives are not that important. Period. You don't need to be on the phone making "arrangements" every free second of your academic day. When you're at school, focus mainly on school. Talk to your friends at lunch or in the afternoons or evenings. Let your education stand on its own without any of your technological distractions.
It's retarded for anyone in K-12 to have a cell phone at school. Sure, it's convenient. But it's also a pain in the ass for the school. Schools don't (and rightly so) want to have to deal with idiot kids and their idiot parents saying that they or their kid lost their phone during P.E., or a teacher took it, or some bully stole it, etc. etc. etc. Liability waivers for phones? Why the hell should a school have to deal with shit like that? It's not their job to keep a personal inventory of your belongings.
The point is that school should be a place where your focus is on learning. I know that's rarely the case these days, but that's the intent. Internet access is a terrible analogy (those of you who used it, i'm talking to you) because unless you've got a hotline to the MENSA national headquarters or something, there's no legitimate educational use for cell phones.
All of what I said is moot though, because I'm convinced that so many people have gotten so into being "connected," asking them to come back down to earth for a while is like asking them to shoot themselves in the head.
Does anyone remember the days when doctors were the only annoying people with beepers, etc constantly going off at the wrong times?
[quote]But it's also a pain in the ass for the school. Schools don't (and rightly so) want to have to deal with idiot kids and their idiot parents saying that they or their kid lost their phone during P.E., or a teacher took it, or some bully stole it, etc. etc. etc. Liability waivers for phones? Why the hell should a school have to deal with shit like that? It's not their job to keep a personal inventory of your belongings. <hr></blockquote>
Nobody ever said it was. Where have you seen a liability waiver for a cell phone?
[quote]A lot of cell phones are free with service. It's not like every teenager has a three hundred dollar Ericcson. We're talking ~$60 here, max. Not a huge deal. That's what a pair of sneakers costs these days.<hr></blockquote>
The free phone is there, of course, *after* they lock you into a 2 year deal at $30/mth? Or do they just hand them out in the hopes you use it someday?
I can't imagine my parents paying $720 for something whose main purpose was to make me look cool. (My youngest sister perhaps, but not me. )
[quote]Cell phones are not designed to annoy people.<hr></blockquote>
I didn't say that's what they were designed to do, but it's what they do. And if those godawful custom ringtones aren't designed for others to hear, then I don't know why they exist.
[quote]A guy outside the school who just missed the bus calling his parents on a cell phone does not bother me the slightest.<hr></blockquote>
That wouldn't bother me, either.
[quote]Please do not stereotype. Thanks.<hr></blockquote>
I'm sorry, I was under the impression that Britney Spears and N'Sync have been selling millions and millions of records to teenagers for the last few years, I must have been mistaken.
[quote]But the cost is not relevant to whether it should be allowed in school or not.<hr></blockquote>
I might agree with what you're saying there, but the argument could be made.
The cost certainly applies to my contention that cell phones for young teens (those who can't even drive yet) are a sign of how spoiled kids are getting.
[quote]Nobody is placing calls during classes.<hr></blockquote>
Who said they were?
[quote]I don't see how you view a cell phone used for making after school arangements a distraction.<hr></blockquote>
If you're standing in the hall (highest visibility after all, and that's the point) on a cell phone and distracted (like being in traffic) it's annoying.
If you're outside (out of traffic) then it's fine.
Beginning to understand?
[quote]Nobody is fondling their cell phone in class or playing snake during a test. Why should they be banned?<hr></blockquote>
Because they go off during class all the time. I'm "higher" education and it happens all the time. It's pandemic, for Christ's sake. Cell phone drivers causing wrecks, cell phones with their godforsaken digitized music during movies, morons standing in high-traffic areas yapping about nothing. The smaller these things get the harder most freaks have to work to get people to notice them, it's pathetic.
A few of my professors who make six figures will send someone out of class if their stupid little crapbox goes off, it's not exactly a jealousy thing, and it's indicative of the attitude of a younger/mid teenager to think that is what the reason would be.
Unless, your attending to a medical/legal emergency there is no reason why your cell phone should go off during a lecture or a class.
I can't tell you how often I've wanted to pummel some jackass over the head with his Nokia. Teens and Kids don't need cell phones at school.
As to their life saving value in disaster situations, just think about how many people died in the WTC because they were busy calling people, leaving messages, and 'reporting' instead of getting the hell OUT of the building.
Personally I have no problems at all with having cellphones. However they should be OFF IN ALL FORMS OF SCHOOL! I hate it when Im sitting in lecture, some Korean chicks cell phone goes off and half the class stops to check and see if its their phone.
In my school, cell phones are banned, yet, many students still sneak them in when we go through the metal detectors and the X-Ray machine checks our bags. CD players, and most importantly B]iPods[/B] are allowed yet not during class.
I find people with cell phones, who are not business people or those who need them very much to do their daily thing, annoying. My friend once said, when their mother gave him a cell phone to tell when Ultimate practice was over,"I am like all those people I hate."
Cell phones are dangerous and are causing, at least in DC, prices to go up for pay phones 15 cents!
Cell phones in schools, even though I hate them, should be allowed to be left in bags or lockers OFF. only at non-academic times, mainly lunch, should they be allowed.
I can understand the neccisaty to use one to schedule after school plans with their parents,but just use a pay phone, it is not that big of a deal if you have to go out of your way.
And also, those deals when you get a free phone with service, most of the time, are dealt with services that cost more after a year of using the cellie!
Overall, Cell phones are good for people that need constant communcation with others. 14 year olds do not need that kind of communication connection. 40 year old business men, however, sometimes require a cell phone.Parents should have them, kids should not. <img src="graemlins/smokin.gif" border="0" alt="[Chilling]" />
My school doesn't allow cell phones (well, its really the school district rules, so the school doesn't really have a say.)
Most teacher don't really care though, hell, many of them have phones.
I always keep my phone on me, even at school. So many people have them now, but I don't see the problem. Theres only been a few times that someone's phone has rung in class. No big deal, as long as it doesn't happen often.
Are cell phones necessary? Hell no, but they are very useful and convenient, especially in emergencies. I've found it useful when I've had to contact parents who are supposed to get me for an appointment or what not.
To groverat, what's the big deal anyway? I would have thought that your political ideology of choice would advocate the personal freedom to have a cell phone.
[quote]Once again, very few people I know have a cell phone that cost them over $50. Some people also get a sort of "family rate" or something to keep costs down. But the cost is not relevant to whether it should be allowed in school or not.<hr></blockquote>
Exactly. My Nokia 3390 cost $40 and we have the family rate so it's not so expensive.
That's another great part of my point... they are expensive status symbols with no use. And they're distracting.</strong><hr></blockquote>
Some people have them just as status symbols, but most of my friends DON'T and I DON'T. I don't go around the school or the mall with my cell phone in my hand just for the hell of it. The only time my phone comes out of my pocket in school is when I need to make a call, which is very rarely.
<strong>Nobody ever said it was. Where have you seen a liability waiver for a cell phone? </strong><hr></blockquote>
Indeed, I was responding to graphiteman's suggestion, as follows:
[quote]Students hsould be allowed to bring a cell phone to school, but only with parental permission and a signed waiver stating that the school cannot be held liable for any loss, damage, etc; and that that the student will follow all guidelines (below).<hr></blockquote>
Please read the thread before you roll your eyes next time.
[quote]The free phone is there, of course, *after* they lock you into a 2 year deal at $30/mth? Or do they just hand them out in the hopes you use it someday?<hr></blockquote>
If you're going to be buying a certain amount of service anyways, it makes sense to take the free or discounted phone. My sister's (she's 17) cell phone was $40 after she bought I don't know, something like 6 months of service which she was going to use anyways. A cell phone needs service to be functional and vice versa, so there's nothing wrong with getting them together. Yeah, 3 years of one service could suck, but a year or so would be reasonable. Anyways, this is not really relevant...it's more for another thread.
[quote]I didn't say that's what they were designed to do, but it's what they do. And if those godawful custom ringtones aren't designed for others to hear, then I don't know why they exist.
<hr></blockquote>
The ringtones are especially annoying, but most cell phones have a silent mode that should be used all the time IMO. Somebody talking on a phone does not annoy me. If I'm in a quiet room and one goes off, that can be annoying, but I think that in libraries/class/lectures etc all cell phones should be turned off or on silent mode so they don't disturb others. We can agree on that, no?
[quote]I'm sorry, I was under the impression that Britney Spears and N'Sync have been selling millions and millions of records to teenagers for the last few years, I must have been mistaken.<hr></blockquote>
Yeah, but the 40-60% of teenagers who have no appreciation for their crap music would rather not be lumped in with the freaks when the topic of music choice comes up.
[quote]I might agree with what you're saying there, but the argument could be made.
The cost certainly applies to my contention that cell phones for young teens (those who can't even drive yet) are a sign of how spoiled kids are getting.<hr></blockquote>
Yeah yeah, different topic. Seriously, cell phones are only useful if you have a car to talk in on the highway!
[quote]Who said they were?<hr></blockquote>
well...
They disrupt class.
However, if you were caught using it or it rang aloud in class, you were up for in-school suspension.
Because they go off during class all the time.
I hate it when Im sitting in lecture, some Korean chicks cell phone goes off and half the class stops to check and see if its their phone.
Obviously a concern is that people will talk/use/hear their cell phone during a class. The only time I remember this happening was on parents day.
[quote]If you're standing in the hall (highest visibility after all, and that's the point) on a cell phone and distracted (like being in traffic) it's annoying.<hr></blockquote>
Distracted from what? Not bumping into a pillar? It's rare I know, but a few people have the amazing ability to walk and avoid obstacles at the same time! Wow!
[quote]it's indicative of the attitude of a younger/mid teenager to think that is what the reason would be.<hr></blockquote>
I can't wait to turn 20 so I will be out of this accursed evil aura associated with all people ages 13-19.
[quote]That's another great part of my point... they are expensive status symbols with no use. And they're distracting.<hr></blockquote>
Expensive status symbols with no use? I've mentioned many times that they are quite convenient for making arrangements/etc for after school or when you're out with friends. When my family is all trying to get to one place from different directions or meeting up somewhere, it's helpful if have a cell phone to reach each other in case something goes awry. They have a very defined use?communication on the go.
[quote]As to their life saving value in disaster situations, just think about how many people died in the WTC because they were busy calling people, leaving messages, and 'reporting' instead of getting the hell OUT of the building.<hr></blockquote>
Umm I can't think of a single person. However, I can think of many people about to die on the top floors of the building who were able to talk to a loved one before they died, and hundreds of potential people who were saved because the people on the Pennsylvania plane were able to find out that the terrorists were intending to crash into a building because they were talking to people on a cell phone who told them about the other terrorist attacks.
I can see both sides of it- from the perspective of a parent, I moght want my kid to have one so that I can keep tabs on them, or have the (mostly false) sense of security that they can get me in an emergency. I would, as a parent, limit them to a certain amount of minutes per month, or find a way to limit the numbers that they have access to. If I got a bill that was high because little Beezie or Wendyo was on the phone for days at a time then they would have to pay. I think Groverat's distaste for them comes from the a$$holes -who are all to visible- who abuse their use. Whether that be the gum-chawing little girl in the Brittney Spears slut top who spends a forty blocks bus ride popping her gum and natteringon about crap into her Nokia to the man (and I was there for this one) who proceeded to take a call while in the front row of a play (not even a movie, a play). And custom ring- tones are evil
But as far as being able to get hold of someone during a natural (or even un-natural) disaster or emergency, come on. On Sept 11th, most of the people in the affected area lost cell reception since the WTC held the transmitters for the cells.
My father died when I was 16. At the time, no-one had a cell phone. They actually had to call me into the principal's office to tell me. I can't think it would have been a pleasant experience if the news was delivered with Motorola's world famous digital clarity. Nor would he have been less dead.
Cell phones are a useful toy. But they are a toy. They can be a good way to teach kids responibility, if parents and schools enforce the rules of common courtesy (if I see one more adult order food while talking on a cell, and acting as if the counterperson is busting in on their conversation, I may run amuk). But if the "me, me, ME" people that I see driving all over the country, cell in one hand, latte in the other, running stop signs and being generally the nexus of a$$holery are the ones kids are going to take as examples, then we are all in trouble.
[quote]When something like that happens in your area, everyone should be sent home. Students shouldn't just whip out their cell phone during class to call mommy if something traumatic happens.<hr></blockquote>
when something like September 11th happens students should just be sent home!? Are you really that dumb? please do not ever take any administrative position.
And how would they get home? Every bridge in NYC was closed. Bus service was stopped. Subway service was stopped. Kids had parents that they needed to contact to get home and to see if they were still alive.
don't be so naive just to back up your point. In the case of emergencies cell phones are priceless. you can't deny that and to say that a teenager will not have any emergency situations to warrant the carrying of a cell phone is very naive.
[quote]
I graduated high school two years ago, but even then plenty of people had cell phones. Hell, even I had kept mine with me. However, if you were caught using it or it rang aloud in class, you were up for in-school suspension. Harsh? You betcha, but I totally agree with the policy. I kept my phone of "vibrate" in my bookbag and had caller ID so I wouldn't have to worry about missing a call and not knowing who it was.<hr></blockquote>
harsh? that's the way it is. what side are you on?
[quote]A 14-year-old with a cell phone is indicative of how rich and spoiled this society is. Kids whine about having to settle for a car that is 5-6 years old, at 16 they drive them while yapping about bullshit on a cell phone.<hr></blockquote>
when is the point reached where owning a cell phone is common and not a sign of being rich and spoiled? was owning a computer a sign of being rich and spoiled 12 years ago? what about a car 90 years ago?
the rich and spoiled arguement is dumb when it comes to technological advancements. it's inevitable that they'll eventually become popular and standard.
[quote]Teenagers are obnoxious and dangerous enough on the road. Giving them a cell phone and a car is like giving them a beer and the keys.<hr></blockquote>
cell phones are banned while driving here in NY State. I guess Texas is behind yet again
[quote]
They're not free, your parents are paying a monthly bill so you can annoy people in public.<hr></blockquote>
1.) I have to call either my father or mother everyday after school. 50 cents each call at a payphone. if I just include weekdays and just that single call it works out to 17.50 a month in payphone charges. now add other times and when you get the answering machine etc and that 29.99 a month cell phone plan and convenience is pretty damn attractive. but I still don't own a cell phone
2.) Many of my friends either split the bill or pay the bill in full with their parents
[quote]
The big deal is this:
They disrupt class. They disrupt social situations. They are as/more dangerous as drinking behind the wheel.<hr></blockquote>
1.) disrupt class only if your school allows them in class and if your school does then it is a bad school
2.) again, handheld cell phones are against the law wile driving in NY State. get your state to pass some legislation.
[quote]
At 15 I was listening to Kurt Cobain sing "Rape Me", at 15 your folks were listening to N'Sync sing "Bye, Bye, Bye".<hr></blockquote>
and I was listening to the Yardbirds, Pearl Jam and Jonny Lang. You're point?
[quote]
I remember 9/11 here in NY, no one get through on their cell phones because every one was using them at the same time. It didn't matter if it was a "real" emergency or not. The system just got overloaded, period. <hr></blockquote>
and so did traditional phone lines. but eventually you got through and if kids did not have cell phones at my school it would have been a disaster getting everyone home and calming everyone down.
Comments
<strong>
All I was saying is that from what you've said previously, you have no idea what a teenager needs a cell phone for and I think it's because when you were that age you didn't have them so you don't know how important they actually are.</strong><hr></blockquote>
I don't think you know realize how unnecessary cell phones are. Do you really think that the way people interact with eachother and the manner in which one learns in school has changed that dramatically over the past 3 years? I don't mean to alarm you but people even went to school before email and computers. Adding more distraction to the school environment isn't necessary nor is it even a good thing.
edit: damn, grover and I were typing at the same time
[ 03-27-2002: Message edited by: Eskimo ]</p>
I remember 9/11 here in NY, no one get through on their cell phones because every one was using them at the same time. It didn't matter if it was a "real" emergency or not. The system just got overloaded, period.
You don't understand, seb, 14 year old just NEED those phones!
I'm shocked human teenagers survived thousands of years without them!
A lot of cell phones are free with service. It's not like every teenager has a three hundred dollar Ericcson. We're talking ~$60 here, max. Not a huge deal. That's what a pair of sneakers costs these days.
[quote]They're not free, your parents are paying a monthly bill so you can annoy people in public.<hr></blockquote>
Every post you stray farther and farther from reality grat. Cell phones are not designed to annoy people.
[quote]It's not a "big deal" in that I'm going to come over to your house and hide your cell phone, but it's a "big deal" in that it's amazingly annoying to everyone that isn't the one being called or talking on the phone.<hr></blockquote>
I don't have a cell phone. I don't give a shit when other kids use their cell phones. I am pretty tolerant. There are a million other things in the world that annoy me more. A guy outside the school who just missed the bus calling his parents on a cell phone does not bother me the slightest. More annoying is when some jerk feels the need to use the only public phone for one square mile to discuss his personal future.
[quote]At 15 I was listening to Kurt Cobain sing "Rape Me", at 15 your folks were listening to N'Sync sing "Bye, Bye, Bye".<hr></blockquote>
Please do not stereotype. Thanks.
[quote]That's the entire point, young teens don't need a $150 appliance that costs ~$30+/mth to maintain whose only purpose is image and sparse communication.<hr></blockquote>
Once again, very few people I know have a cell phone that cost them over $50. Some people also get a sort of "family rate" or something to keep costs down. But the cost is not relevant to whether it should be allowed in school or not.
[quote]I don't think you know realize how unnecessary cell phones are. Do you really think that the way people interact with eachother and the manner in which one learns in school has changed that dramatically over the past 3 years? I don't mean to alarm you but people even went to school before email and computers. Adding more distraction to the school environment isn't necessary nor is it even a good thing.<hr></blockquote>
Nobody is placing calls during classes. I don't see how you view a cell phone used for making after school arangements a distraction. Stop with the whole thing about "you 'younguns are spoiled brats dependent on technology". So kids went to school before those distractions known as email and computers? We better ban those! Come on. What's with everyone hating the current generation?
The point is: Cell phones are useful. Whether you think they are too expensive is your call, but I fail to see how one detracts from the learning experience. Nobody is fondling their cell phone in class or playing snake during a test. Why should they be banned?
I used to love talking on the phone with friends, and at one point, my cell phone was a novelty (I've had a cell phone for almost 5 years, now).
Since then, I've come to realize that with my busy college schedule, I don't want to be on the phone all the time. Sure, I could use my cell phone to call every one about everything all the time, but I don't want to. I used to, though.
Your lives are not that important. Period. You don't need to be on the phone making "arrangements" every free second of your academic day. When you're at school, focus mainly on school. Talk to your friends at lunch or in the afternoons or evenings. Let your education stand on its own without any of your technological distractions.
If you got the impression that kids use cell phones this much, you are mistaken.
The point is that school should be a place where your focus is on learning. I know that's rarely the case these days, but that's the intent. Internet access is a terrible analogy (those of you who used it, i'm talking to you) because unless you've got a hotline to the MENSA national headquarters or something, there's no legitimate educational use for cell phones.
All of what I said is moot though, because I'm convinced that so many people have gotten so into being "connected," asking them to come back down to earth for a while is like asking them to shoot themselves in the head.
Does anyone remember the days when doctors were the only annoying people with beepers, etc constantly going off at the wrong times?
Nobody ever said it was. Where have you seen a liability waiver for a cell phone?
The free phone is there, of course, *after* they lock you into a 2 year deal at $30/mth? Or do they just hand them out in the hopes you use it someday?
I can't imagine my parents paying $720 for something whose main purpose was to make me look cool. (My youngest sister perhaps, but not me.
[quote]Cell phones are not designed to annoy people.<hr></blockquote>
I didn't say that's what they were designed to do, but it's what they do. And if those godawful custom ringtones aren't designed for others to hear, then I don't know why they exist.
[quote]A guy outside the school who just missed the bus calling his parents on a cell phone does not bother me the slightest.<hr></blockquote>
That wouldn't bother me, either.
[quote]Please do not stereotype. Thanks.<hr></blockquote>
I'm sorry, I was under the impression that Britney Spears and N'Sync have been selling millions and millions of records to teenagers for the last few years, I must have been mistaken.
[quote]But the cost is not relevant to whether it should be allowed in school or not.<hr></blockquote>
I might agree with what you're saying there, but the argument could be made.
The cost certainly applies to my contention that cell phones for young teens (those who can't even drive yet) are a sign of how spoiled kids are getting.
[quote]Nobody is placing calls during classes.<hr></blockquote>
Who said they were?
[quote]I don't see how you view a cell phone used for making after school arangements a distraction.<hr></blockquote>
If you're standing in the hall (highest visibility after all, and that's the point) on a cell phone and distracted (like being in traffic) it's annoying.
If you're outside (out of traffic) then it's fine.
Beginning to understand?
[quote]Nobody is fondling their cell phone in class or playing snake during a test. Why should they be banned?<hr></blockquote>
Because they go off during class all the time. I'm "higher" education and it happens all the time. It's pandemic, for Christ's sake. Cell phone drivers causing wrecks, cell phones with their godforsaken digitized music during movies, morons standing in high-traffic areas yapping about nothing. The smaller these things get the harder most freaks have to work to get people to notice them, it's pathetic.
A few of my professors who make six figures will send someone out of class if their stupid little crapbox goes off, it's not exactly a jealousy thing, and it's indicative of the attitude of a younger/mid teenager to think that is what the reason would be.
That's another great part of my point... they are expensive status symbols with no use. And they're distracting.
I can't tell you how often I've wanted to pummel some jackass over the head with his Nokia. Teens and Kids don't need cell phones at school.
As to their life saving value in disaster situations, just think about how many people died in the WTC because they were busy calling people, leaving messages, and 'reporting' instead of getting the hell OUT of the building.
I find people with cell phones, who are not business people or those who need them very much to do their daily thing, annoying. My friend once said, when their mother gave him a cell phone to tell when Ultimate practice was over,"I am like all those people I hate."
Cell phones are dangerous and are causing, at least in DC, prices to go up for pay phones 15 cents!
Cell phones in schools, even though I hate them, should be allowed to be left in bags or lockers OFF. only at non-academic times, mainly lunch, should they be allowed.
I can understand the neccisaty to use one to schedule after school plans with their parents,but just use a pay phone, it is not that big of a deal if you have to go out of your way.
And also, those deals when you get a free phone with service, most of the time, are dealt with services that cost more after a year of using the cellie!
Overall, Cell phones are good for people that need constant communcation with others. 14 year olds do not need that kind of communication connection. 40 year old business men, however, sometimes require a cell phone.Parents should have them, kids should not. <img src="graemlins/smokin.gif" border="0" alt="[Chilling]" />
Most teacher don't really care though, hell, many of them have phones.
I always keep my phone on me, even at school. So many people have them now, but I don't see the problem. Theres only been a few times that someone's phone has rung in class. No big deal, as long as it doesn't happen often.
Are cell phones necessary? Hell no, but they are very useful and convenient, especially in emergencies. I've found it useful when I've had to contact parents who are supposed to get me for an appointment or what not.
To groverat, what's the big deal anyway? I would have thought that your political ideology of choice would advocate the personal freedom to have a cell phone.
[ 03-27-2002: Message edited by: MacsKickAss ]</p>
Exactly. My Nokia 3390 cost $40 and we have the family rate so it's not so expensive.
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That's another great part of my point... they are expensive status symbols with no use. And they're distracting.</strong><hr></blockquote>
Some people have them just as status symbols, but most of my friends DON'T and I DON'T. I don't go around the school or the mall with my cell phone in my hand just for the hell of it. The only time my phone comes out of my pocket in school is when I need to make a call, which is very rarely.
<strong>Nobody ever said it was. Where have you seen a liability waiver for a cell phone?
Indeed, I was responding to graphiteman's suggestion, as follows:
[quote]Students hsould be allowed to bring a cell phone to school, but only with parental permission and a signed waiver stating that the school cannot be held liable for any loss, damage, etc; and that that the student will follow all guidelines (below).<hr></blockquote>
Please read the thread before you roll your eyes next time.
If you're going to be buying a certain amount of service anyways, it makes sense to take the free or discounted phone. My sister's (she's 17) cell phone was $40 after she bought I don't know, something like 6 months of service which she was going to use anyways. A cell phone needs service to be functional and vice versa, so there's nothing wrong with getting them together. Yeah, 3 years of one service could suck, but a year or so would be reasonable. Anyways, this is not really relevant...it's more for another thread.
[quote]I didn't say that's what they were designed to do, but it's what they do. And if those godawful custom ringtones aren't designed for others to hear, then I don't know why they exist.
<hr></blockquote>
The ringtones are especially annoying, but most cell phones have a silent mode that should be used all the time IMO. Somebody talking on a phone does not annoy me. If I'm in a quiet room and one goes off, that can be annoying, but I think that in libraries/class/lectures etc all cell phones should be turned off or on silent mode so they don't disturb others. We can agree on that, no?
[quote]I'm sorry, I was under the impression that Britney Spears and N'Sync have been selling millions and millions of records to teenagers for the last few years, I must have been mistaken.<hr></blockquote>
Yeah, but the 40-60% of teenagers who have no appreciation for their crap music would rather not be lumped in with the freaks when the topic of music choice comes up.
[quote]I might agree with what you're saying there, but the argument could be made.
The cost certainly applies to my contention that cell phones for young teens (those who can't even drive yet) are a sign of how spoiled kids are getting.<hr></blockquote>
Yeah yeah, different topic. Seriously, cell phones are only useful if you have a car to talk in on the highway!
[quote]Who said they were?<hr></blockquote>
well...
They disrupt class.
However, if you were caught using it or it rang aloud in class, you were up for in-school suspension.
Because they go off during class all the time.
I hate it when Im sitting in lecture, some Korean chicks cell phone goes off and half the class stops to check and see if its their phone.
Obviously a concern is that people will talk/use/hear their cell phone during a class. The only time I remember this happening was on parents day.
[quote]If you're standing in the hall (highest visibility after all, and that's the point) on a cell phone and distracted (like being in traffic) it's annoying.<hr></blockquote>
Distracted from what? Not bumping into a pillar? It's rare I know, but a few people have the amazing ability to walk and avoid obstacles at the same time! Wow!
[quote]it's indicative of the attitude of a younger/mid teenager to think that is what the reason would be.<hr></blockquote>
I can't wait to turn 20 so I will be out of this accursed evil aura associated with all people ages 13-19.
[quote]That's another great part of my point... they are expensive status symbols with no use. And they're distracting.<hr></blockquote>
Expensive status symbols with no use? I've mentioned many times that they are quite convenient for making arrangements/etc for after school or when you're out with friends. When my family is all trying to get to one place from different directions or meeting up somewhere, it's helpful if have a cell phone to reach each other in case something goes awry. They have a very defined use?communication on the go.
[quote]As to their life saving value in disaster situations, just think about how many people died in the WTC because they were busy calling people, leaving messages, and 'reporting' instead of getting the hell OUT of the building.<hr></blockquote>
Umm I can't think of a single person. However, I can think of many people about to die on the top floors of the building who were able to talk to a loved one before they died, and hundreds of potential people who were saved because the people on the Pennsylvania plane were able to find out that the terrorists were intending to crash into a building because they were talking to people on a cell phone who told them about the other terrorist attacks.
But as far as being able to get hold of someone during a natural (or even un-natural) disaster or emergency, come on. On Sept 11th, most of the people in the affected area lost cell reception since the WTC held the transmitters for the cells.
My father died when I was 16. At the time, no-one had a cell phone. They actually had to call me into the principal's office to tell me. I can't think it would have been a pleasant experience if the news was delivered with Motorola's world famous digital clarity. Nor would he have been less dead.
Cell phones are a useful toy. But they are a toy. They can be a good way to teach kids responibility, if parents and schools enforce the rules of common courtesy (if I see one more adult order food while talking on a cell, and acting as if the counterperson is busting in on their conversation, I may run amuk). But if the "me, me, ME" people that I see driving all over the country, cell in one hand, latte in the other, running stop signs and being generally the nexus of a$$holery are the ones kids are going to take as examples, then we are all in trouble.
when something like September 11th happens students should just be sent home!? Are you really that dumb? please do not ever take any administrative position.
And how would they get home? Every bridge in NYC was closed. Bus service was stopped. Subway service was stopped. Kids had parents that they needed to contact to get home and to see if they were still alive.
don't be so naive just to back up your point. In the case of emergencies cell phones are priceless. you can't deny that and to say that a teenager will not have any emergency situations to warrant the carrying of a cell phone is very naive.
[quote]
I graduated high school two years ago, but even then plenty of people had cell phones. Hell, even I had kept mine with me. However, if you were caught using it or it rang aloud in class, you were up for in-school suspension. Harsh? You betcha, but I totally agree with the policy. I kept my phone of "vibrate" in my bookbag and had caller ID so I wouldn't have to worry about missing a call and not knowing who it was.<hr></blockquote>
harsh? that's the way it is. what side are you on?
[quote]A 14-year-old with a cell phone is indicative of how rich and spoiled this society is. Kids whine about having to settle for a car that is 5-6 years old, at 16 they drive them while yapping about bullshit on a cell phone.<hr></blockquote>
when is the point reached where owning a cell phone is common and not a sign of being rich and spoiled? was owning a computer a sign of being rich and spoiled 12 years ago? what about a car 90 years ago?
the rich and spoiled arguement is dumb when it comes to technological advancements. it's inevitable that they'll eventually become popular and standard.
[quote]Teenagers are obnoxious and dangerous enough on the road. Giving them a cell phone and a car is like giving them a beer and the keys.<hr></blockquote>
cell phones are banned while driving here in NY State. I guess Texas is behind yet again
[quote]
They're not free, your parents are paying a monthly bill so you can annoy people in public.<hr></blockquote>
1.) I have to call either my father or mother everyday after school. 50 cents each call at a payphone. if I just include weekdays and just that single call it works out to 17.50 a month in payphone charges. now add other times and when you get the answering machine etc and that 29.99 a month cell phone plan and convenience is pretty damn attractive. but I still don't own a cell phone
2.) Many of my friends either split the bill or pay the bill in full with their parents
[quote]
The big deal is this:
They disrupt class. They disrupt social situations. They are as/more dangerous as drinking behind the wheel.<hr></blockquote>
1.) disrupt class only if your school allows them in class and if your school does then it is a bad school
2.) again, handheld cell phones are against the law wile driving in NY State. get your state to pass some legislation.
[quote]
At 15 I was listening to Kurt Cobain sing "Rape Me", at 15 your folks were listening to N'Sync sing "Bye, Bye, Bye".<hr></blockquote>
and I was listening to the Yardbirds, Pearl Jam and Jonny Lang. You're point?
[quote]
I remember 9/11 here in NY, no one get through on their cell phones because every one was using them at the same time. It didn't matter if it was a "real" emergency or not. The system just got overloaded, period. <hr></blockquote>
and so did traditional phone lines. but eventually you got through and if kids did not have cell phones at my school it would have been a disaster getting everyone home and calming everyone down.