Mobile Phone Ban in Schools Shows No Improvement in Grades or Behaviour, Study Reveals
A recent study suggests that banning mobile phones in schools does not lead to students achieving higher grades or experiencing better mental wellbeing. The research, the first of its kind, found that factors such as students' sleep, classroom behaviour, exercise habits, and overall phone usage did not significantly differ between schools with phone bans and those without.
The study, conducted by academics, highlighted that spending excessive time on smartphones and social media platforms was associated with poorer outcomes across various measures. Dr. Victoria Goodyear, the lead author of the study, emphasised that while smartphone bans in schools are not discouraged, they may not be sufficient to address the negative impacts effectively.
The University of Birmingham's research, published in the Lancet's journal for European health policy, analysed 1,227 students from 30 different secondary schools in England to assess the impact of smartphone rules during break and lunchtimes. The findings indicated that schools implementing restrictions on smartphone use did not witness the desired improvements in student health, wellbeing, or focus in lessons.
On the contrary, the study revealed a correlation between increased phone and social media usage and adverse effects on mental wellbeing, physical activity, sleep quality, academic performance, and classroom behaviour. The research utilised the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scales to evaluate participants' wellbeing levels and also considered anxiety and depression indicators.
Joe Ryrie, director of the campaign group Smartphone Free Childhood, expressed surprise at the study's results, noting that teachers who enforced phone bans had reported positive outcomes. Ryrie highlighted the alarming average time students spent on their phones - between four to six hours - and stressed the necessity for stricter regulations to ensure the safety and non-addictiveness of social media platforms for children.
In a real-world scenario, students like Charlie at Twyford School in London experienced a strict smartphone ban until sixth form, which encouraged more social interaction among peers. While Charlie acknowledged the ban possibly reduced his social media usage, he observed that many of his friends remained glued to their phones.
Conversely, Colin Crehan, head of Holy Trinity Catholic School in Birmingham, recognised the importance of guiding students on responsible phone usage within a safe environment. Crehan believed that restricting phones in school could lead to unnecessary conflicts, as students valued the freedom to use their devices during breaks.
However, students from schools with phone bans reported positive outcomes such as reduced bullying and enhanced social skills, aspects not covered in the University of Birmingham study. Ysgol Aberconwy in Conwy recently implemented a policy where students' phones are secured in magnetic pouches unless unlocked by a teacher for educational purposes, citing concerns about rising loneliness and the potential impact of social media on students' life satisfaction.
Banning mobile phones in schools does not improve grades or mental wellbeing, according to a recent study.
Excessive smartphone and social media use is linked to poorer outcomes in student health and education.
Schools with phone bans did not see expected improvements in student wellbeing and focus.
Source: BBC