Homework or Hangout? How students use study hall

By Lydia Woodburn

During study hall at McNicholas High School, most students used the time to talk or use technology rather than complete schoolwork, according to a recent survey of students and teachers.

Senior Liliana McHugh said she often talks with friends while also finishing homework. “Wireless headphones should be allowed only during study hall,” McHugh said. Senior Thomas Stewart said his study hall time is split between work and socializing. “I usually either do homework or mess around with friends,” Stewart said. He added, “If I could change one thing about study hall, phones should be allowed.”

Some students said they rarely focused on schoolwork. Sophomore Annie Moss said, “Honestly, I just waste time during study hall,” while freshman Farrah Yoshida said technology often distracts her. “I just play Roblox and watch YouTube, but sometimes I do homework,” Yoshida said.

Several students suggested changes they believed would improve study hall. Junior Josie Suttles said she would like “having two study halls in our schedules.”

Junior Savanna Stacey said, “I wish they only let three or four people sit at a table instead of eight,” and freshman Jennifer Reiser said study hall would be more useful later in the day. “I’d make it later so I can get more things done,” Reiser said. She added that study hall is still productive for her. “I love my study hall because I actually get things done,” Reiser said.

Teachers supervising study hall reported similar observations. English teacher Mr. Dan Freeman, who has supervised a study hall for two years, said most students use their laptops for nonacademic activities. “Students mostly game on their laptops during study hall,” Freeman said. He estimated that 10% or fewer students actively completed schoolwork. Freeman said online games were the main distraction, followed by YouTube, social media, and streaming services. Despite the distractions, Freeman said study hall served a social purpose. “Study hall is a great opportunity for peers to connect with each other and build friendships,” he said.