Is there a place for smartphones in schools?

27 August 2018

Amid growing concerns that smartphones in schools could lead to distracted children, we got thinking as to how we could help and believe our specifically-designed Phone Lockers could provide a solution.

APC’s specifically-designed Phone Lockers could provide a solution for schools concerned about the distractions of smartphones.

In June, New South Wales Education Minister Rob Stokes ordered a review into phone use in schools which would look at the risks and rewards of social media. The review will decide whether to ban mobile phones in NSW schools, with some embracing the idea and others trashing it.

APC has devised a way to remove the distraction of the phones while still allowing them into the schools. Following the idea of moderated use, the effective solution is for students to store their mobile devices in APC’s Phone Lockers, during school hours. A 30-door Phone Locker unit can easily be fitted into classrooms; ensuring phones are locked away during school hours and allowing students to collect them at the end of the day or intermittently for educational purposes if required.

In May, world-renowned Finnish education expert Pasi Sahlberg told the Sydney Morning Herald he believed smartphone-related distraction is one of the main reasons why Australia and similar countries are sliding down Programme for International Student Assessment rankings. Children in France aged between three and fifteen were banned from using their phones during teaching activity after legislation was passed in 2010, and one study by the London School of Economics found after the ban, students’ performance in exams significantly increased.

Some parents have expressed concern over the ban, arguing children should be able to communicate with their parents while at school. Phone Lockers may provide a solution to both sides of the school smartphone debate; limiting phone use during school hours but providing peace of mind to parents that children have phones available before and after school.

It is unknown yet as to how the review will affect schools nationwide, but APC will continue to follow the review and outcome.