Blocked Websites and the Impact on Student Learning

LAUSD has blocked many websites on students’ chromebooks such as social media, online games, streaming services and even Youtube. The question is, why are these websites blocked, and how are they affecting SOCES students and their work? 

Social media such as Instagram and TikTok are websites that let their users upload, share, and create videos and pictures. However, using social media can be dangerous and addicting. In order to protect the students, LAUSD decided to ban all social media platforms on chromebooks. This way, students can focus more on classwork, prevent cyberbullying, and any other online harms. 

Online games (cool math games, Fortnite, Tetris, etc) and movie streaming services have also become a major problem in the classroom. Many teachers have noticed that students have been negatively affected by using these websites. History teacher Mr Smiley stated that, “There are over 154 websites that are blocked… I can effectively block websites I don’t want them to be in. It's great”. Sophomore Melly Galstyan said, “Banned websites made me feel less distracted towards my school work. Yes, it has a huge impact, however, it makes me pay more attention in class”. Benjamin Avila from 7th grade said, “It keeps me from getting distracted since before the ban I would often play instead of paying attention in class.” These websites have made a big impact on student life but appear to help more with students reaching their academic goals. 

Many websites that have been banned are also controversial, such as Youtube. Youtube now requires that parents give you permission through the parent portal if you want to access it. Youtube is a video sharing platform where you can watch, share and upload videos of your interest. This platform is used for educational purposes, but are students taking advantage of what these platforms offer? “I think it can be kind of annoying because sometimes I need my students to use those tools while we’re at school. But now that it's blocked I figure out other ways,” said Ms. Matin. Freshman Alessia Nicolescu said, “I think the ban on Youtube is great because it stops us from watching videos, but also Youtube has helped us for school work and has helpful videos for AP classes”.  Having Youtube banned helps students pay more attention towards their classes, however it has taken away the advantages of having helpful videos available. 

LAUSD has banned a lot of websites over the past couple of years. Some bans have had a negative or positive impact. Banning social media platforms and streaming websites for games/movies have gotten their students to pay more attention in class and has had a positive impact on academic performances. However, it is controversial for the ban on Youtube. These websites are often used for teaching purposes even though it has been a distraction for students.