Strict bans on mobile phones in schools might not be as effective as some hope. A recent study from US universities, including Stanford and Duke, looked at nearly 1,800 schools where students had to keep their phones locked away. Surprisingly, the researchers found that this approach led to little change in student outcomes.
For instance, the study showed that test scores didn’t improve significantly. This might disappoint some educators in England cheering for similar restrictions. England is set to introduce a nationwide rule next year that would require students to lock away their phones during school hours.
Prof. Thomas Dee from Stanford is one of the authors of this report. He warns against interpreting the results as a reason to drop phone bans completely. He believes there are still valuable lessons to learn from these findings. While the study didn’t reveal a clear boost in academic performance, it did show a drop in mobile phone usage over time, suggesting that schools can create a better learning environment.
The study, published by the National Bureau of Economic Research, monitored secondary schools using GPS data. While phone usage fell significantly, it didn’t lead to noticeable improvements in grades or attendance. The average effects on test scores were minimal, and instances of perceived online bullying remained unchanged.
Interestingly, the first year of the ban did come with challenges. Schools saw an increase in suspensions and a dip in students’ wellbeing. However, as time passed, these negative impacts lessened, and overall wellbeing improved.
Last month, the UK’s Department for Education announced that all state schools in England would have to implement stricter phone policies. A recent survey by the children’s commissioner found over 90% of schools already had some restrictions in place. The new rules will require phones to be handed in or locked away throughout the school day.
The Girls’ Day Schools Trust also decided to ban phones for students up to Year 11 starting in September. Their director, Philip Purvis, highlighted research linking mobile phone usage to issues like poor mental health, especially among teenage girls.
With exams approaching, the message is clear: don’t bring your phone or smart watch to the exam hall. Last year, more than 500 students faced disqualification for having devices during exams, according to Ian Bauckham, the chief regulator of Ofqual. He cautioned that being found with a device can lead to serious consequences that could affect a student’s future.
In conclusion, while banning phones in schools may seem like a quick fix for enhancing learning, the evidence is mixed. Understanding how these restrictions impact student life requires ongoing examination and a nuanced approach.
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