New findings from the Education Review Office (ERO) indicate that the government’s ban on cell phones in schools is effective and is leading to improved student outcomes.
In secondary schools, 75% said removing cell phones has improved student behaviour, and 80% of teachers report removing phones from the classroom has improved students’ ability to focus on work.
66% report that student achievement has increased, and the same percentage indicate that bullying has decreased in their schools.
“These results are clear evidence that removing the distraction of cell phone use has a positive impact on student achievement and wellbeing,” Education Minister Erica Stanford said.
“Not only do they have greater focus in the classroom, but students are also developing stronger connections and building more effective learning habits. Parents can be confident when their children are at school; we’re giving them the best chance to reach their full potential.”
“Despite these results, there is more work to do. The report found about a third of Year 12 and 13 students don’t follow the rules; the most common reason is to message parents during the day. Parents have an important part to play in helping their children understand the benefits of staying off cell phones during school.”
ERO has recommended several actions, including raising awareness about the benefits of removing digital distractions and demonstrating what good practice in school compliance looks like. They plan to update advice and guidelines for schools to reflect these findings.
Additionally, ERO suggests expanding the policy to also ban smartwatches in schools to further reduce digital distractions.