Global trends on smartphone bans in schools—what’s your view?
Today, I wanted to share some compelling global insights on trends related to banning smartphones in schools this school year:
As of the end of 2024, around 79 countries or regions worldwide—roughly 40 % of the globe—have enacted restrictions or full bans on smartphone use in schools (UNESCO data).
In Switzerland, a survey shows 82 % of the population, including 64 % of young adults, supports banning phones in schools. (Swissinfo.ch)
Brazil recently passed a federal law limiting phone usage in schools, supported across the political spectrum and by parents and educators. (AP News)
In the UK, nearly all primary schools (99.8 %) and 90 % of secondary schools already enforce phone bans, with calls for nationwide legislation. (The Gardian)
On the flip side, some researchers caution that bans don’t always show strong academic or mental health benefits and can sometimes create unintended issues like more suspensions. (My Journal Courier)
Do you think banning smartphones improves focus, well-being, and peer interaction? Or does it raise concerns around safety, autonomy, or over-policing?
I agree with those who say it should be banned in schools. Students need to focus and not to be distracted. We also banned the use of mobile phones n classes at the university, however, the students needed to use them for different purposes like looking up meaning of words. Ironically after the war we depended on them totally for attending lectures online and even tasks and quizzes were sent on Google form.
We also have platforms for following missed classes and revision for exams for school children
Of course all that doesn't conform with the use of mobile phones in school which is the main issue in the post above. I just want to share our present experience