Effective Bans Lead to Higher Grades
Pupils at schools with strict mobile phone bans are outperforming their peers at schools with more relaxed phone use policies, according to a recent report. Students whose devices are stored or locked away throughout the day are achieving exam results that are one or two grades higher, the study reveals. Additionally, secondary schools with an "effective ban" were found to be more than twice as likely to receive an "Outstanding" rating from Ofsted.
New Government Guidance
The report, based on a survey of 407 primary and secondary schools, highlights the benefits of enforcing strict mobile phone policies. Professor Jonathan Haidt, one of the researchers, emphasized that a ban is most effective when devices are kept locked up for the entire school day. The UK government has recently issued guidance recommending heads of schools to implement phone bans. Education Secretary Gillian Keegan stated that mobile phones are a distraction and have no place in classrooms, echoing concerns raised by Conservative MP Dame Caroline Dinenage.
Impact on Social Media and Mental Health
As children face restrictions on their social media usage, policymakers are exploring ways to regulate online activities. Proposals include potential fines for app owners who fail to block accounts of users under 13 years old. Parents may also be consulted on setting limits for their children's online time and assessing the effects on mental well-being. A survey conducted by Parentkind revealed that a majority of parents support banning social media for those under 16. These developments align with previous guidelines issued to schools in England to curb phone usage during the school day, aiming to reduce disruptions and enhance student behavior.
