On February 19, the British government prohibited the use of mobile phones in schools. The new guidelines ban phones not just during lessons, but also during break times. This will have a significant impact, considering that, by age 12, 97% of British children have their own mobile phone.

The government’s measure comes in response to growing concerns regarding young people’s relationship with mobile phones. Their use in school can lead to distraction, classroom disturbance and even online bullying. The consequences are lost learning time, reduced educational performance and a worsening of the students’ psychological wellbeing. According to Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan, although “today’s digital world provides immense opportunities […] this should not come at the expense of our children’s wellbeing or education.”

The new measures are meant to counter all this. Studies have revealed that the schools that already have a full-day ban on phone use have achieved excellent results. In their classrooms the environment is calmer, and it’s easier to focus, learn and teach. Students concentrate more, are more productive and are more likely to express their full potential.

Education Secretary Gillian Keegan expressed satisfaction with the government’s decisions. “You attend school to learn, develop friendships, interact with peers and teachers,” she noted, “not endlessly scroll on your phone.”

(Carlo Dellonte)
(Image: monkeybusinessimages, istockphoto.com)