Paul Crone
Director, National Association of Principals and Deputies
Smartphones are essential for connectivity and information access but also distract, reduce focus, hinder social interactions and contribute to bullying among young adults.
Teachers will anecdotally describe the smartphone as the “scourge of the classroom,” describing it as the biggest impediment to deep engagement in classroom activities and learning.
Teenagers resist smartphone ban
Teenagers, by nature, are exploring and challenging their environment; banning smartphones will be seen as a challenge to them. Teenagers are more resourceful than we sometimes give them credit for. For example, many students may use two phones. Smartphone use is an issue in schools that needs to be tackled, and we need to look at the solution creatively.
What is clear from the perspective of schools is that we must reduce the negative impact that smartphones have on the school environment. Removing smartphones from being used during school days is expected to boost classroom engagement and improve student interactions with teachers and each other, reducing their reliance on these devices.
The development and implementation of the mobile phone policy is achieved when there is buy-in from parents and students.
Collaborative mobile phone policies
This is not a new issue for schools, and the topic has dominated many staff meetings. So, how do schools do this? Virtually every school in the country has a mobile phone policy that removes the phone from use in school. This is achieved through collaboration and partnership. The development and implementation of the mobile phone policy is achieved when there is buy-in from parents and students, when everyone understands the reasons for the policy and everyone has had their say on the implementation.
Phone retrieval policy explanation
Many schools operate their policy in the manner of ‘if we see the phone, we will take it.’ The phone is returned after the school day has ended or directly to the parent. This works as long as everyone understands the rationale.
Preparing students for future challenges in academics, work and personal life must be a priority, requiring an educational approach to embrace the learning opportunities available. To empower students with the skills of self-regulation and self-discipline, schools must be given the autonomy to tackle this issue within their own context.
