A committee from the Senedd has concluded that implementing a total ban on smartphones in Welsh schools may not be the ultimate solution to the concerns surrounding their use among students. The committee suggests that the Welsh Government should instead provide clear guidance on how these devices should be utilised within educational settings. This decision comes after the committee engaged with pupils, parents, and teachers on the matter. The findings were published following a petition that called for a ban, initiated by Zena Blackwell, which gathered over 3,000 signatures.
The committee’s report acknowledges the potential negative impacts of smartphones on young people but also recognises their ability to support students’ well-being and safety. Currently, individual schools in Wales have the discretion to decide on whether to prohibit phones, leading to varying policies across educational institutions. The committee delved into these diverse regulations and the intricate relationship between students and their smartphones, highlighting the complexity of the issue.
While there is compelling evidence indicating the risks associated with smartphone use overshadow the benefits for children, the committee does not advocate for a blanket ban in schools. Instead, they urge the Welsh Government to provide specific guidelines to empower teachers in establishing rules that cater to the needs of their students effectively. Carolyn Thomas MS, the committee chair, acknowledges the dual nature of smartphone use in schools, citing examples of both negative impacts like distraction and cyber-bullying, as well as positive outcomes such as aiding health management and enhancing children’s independence.
A significant portion of the report is dedicated to detailing the prevalence of smartphone ownership among school children. Statistics from the Children’s Commissioner for Wales revealed that a majority of pupils, both in primary and secondary schools, possess smartphones, with a high percentage bringing these devices to school. Interestingly, while most students reported not being allowed to use phones during class, a considerable number admitted to using them for learning purposes. This indicates the nuanced role smartphones play in modern education.
The report also explores the perspectives of educators on smartphone usage in schools. While some teachers endorse the idea of a blanket ban to alleviate the burden on individual schools, others emphasise the safeguarding challenges posed by unrestricted phone access. Implementing strict phone policies has shown promising results in certain schools, with improvements noted in pupil concentration, behaviour, and overall well-being. However, concerns regarding the enforcement of bans and the additional workload they may entail for staff are legitimate issues that need to be addressed.
As the committee’s recommendations are now under consideration by the Welsh Government, the next steps involve a thorough evaluation of the evidence presented and a future debate in the Senedd. The government aims to collaborate with schools in refining mobile phone policies to mitigate negative impacts and enhance the learning environment. By engaging with stakeholders and weighing the benefits and drawbacks of smartphone use in schools, policymakers strive to strike a balance that prioritises student welfare and academic progress.