Are we making the right call on mobile bans in schools?
Mobile phones in schools do not mix – according to some. Many schools have bans of various forms:
- total
- allowed to have them as long as they are not seen
- using them when allowed to do so by the staff
- using them as long as they do not abuse the privilege
Surely there must be a better way to organise this?
A principal from a large high school overseas told me how strict their ban was, even having a ‘wand’ to scan students as they hid them “in some unusual places!” When I asked how many had been confiscated this term, the reply was a staggering 754 (really!!). Their policy clearly did not work!
What we do know is that mobile technology will not go away, it’s here to stay. It’s getting, quicker, smarter and increasingly user friendly. Mobiles are not a ‘life style choice but maybe are a ‘must have’ in today’s life.
Speaking with three sets of students in the past few weeks – there wasn’t one without a mobile, nor one could imagine life without one. Many used it out of school to photograph course work, use the calculator function, research through the web, communicate and so much more.
Surely it is better to harness this technology in learning in schools rather than ignore it. The power of smart phones is often very much quicker than school equipment. Students know how to use them intuitively. As Professor Stephen Heppell always says “ A switched off device means a switched off student”
We know the issues regarding filming, cyber bullying, theft. But there are strategies and protocols that schools use to minimise these. Students want to use this kit – getting them to devise the policies for their use will help prevent abuse.
Gareth Long is a freelance education consultant, with extensive experience in school leadership and strategic approaches to the design of new learning spaces. See: www.garethl.com
The Scottish Government has recently started to consider the development of a Technologies for Learning Strategy. Join the conversation at www.technologiesforlearningstrategy.org.uk
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The school I am working in has a 'no mobiles out' policy but of course this does not prevent pupils using them! In practice I have authorised use as calculators, stopwatch function (as pupils find them far easier to use) and also to video demo experiments. This gives a far better record especially for poor writers – both sound and vision captured.
We are pushing against a tide if we keep trying to ban and creating a discipline issue which is unnecessary. I agree that pupils should be involved to get sensible policies on use, cyberbullying, photos etc.
I agree with Fiona (above). They are part of the modern world whether we like it or not. On the negative side we have the risk of cyberbullying, unwanted image taking and even the status of carrying an expensive smartphone. On the positive side, they are communication devices which can facilitate safet; allowing children to arrange to meet on the way to school, call someone if they feel threatened on their commute and to have limited contact with parent/carers.
My view is that they should be switched off within the school building at all times and may be used at intervals or lunchtime (again outside), ideally as a communication device only, however understand that would be difficult to police. A policy declaring what 'is' and 'is not' allowed should be drawn up, displayed, communicated to parents and possibly even signed up to by pupils.
As a parent, I have left text messages on a couple of occasions to alert my child that I had made last minute alternative care arrangements due to unforseen circumstances.