THE NSW state government has announced a landmark review into the usage of smartphones in schools.
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Understood to be the first of its size and scope, the review was announced by education minister Rob Stokes on Wednesday and will be headed up by child psychologist Michael Carr-Gregg.
The review could consider restricting the use of mobile phones based on age and online safety, and is primarily being conducted to address cyber-bullying concerns.
“While smartphones connect us to the world in ways never imagined just a decade ago, they raise issues that previous generations have not had to deal with,” Mr Stokes told News Corp.
“Every school I visit has anecdotal examples about the perils or positives surrounding the use of smartphones and other devices in schools.
“In the classroom and in the playground, smartphones provide opportunities for students and parents to stay connected, but can also create other problems.”
The threat of cyber-bullying is thought to be one of the primary reasons behind the significant review.
Dr Carr-Gregg’s review is tipped to explore a number of other areas, including how devices can be used as teaching tools, as well as their importance as a communication too between students and parents.
He said he would also investigate the use of ‘dumb phones’ that don’t have cameras or internet access.
Trinity Anglican College school captain Rohan Smith said the review was a good idea.
He said it was important to help students learn when it is and isn’t appropriate to use their phones.
“I think it’s probably necessary, a lot of schools have issues with mobile phones in class,” he said.
“I don’t think the idea of ‘dumb phones’ isn’t necessary as such, the whole point of them is to help with daily life.
“If they’re banned in the classroom and monitored well outside they’re fine.”
Mr Smith also said removing phones from schools would do little to curb cyber-bullying.
“I think a lot of cyber-bullying doesn’t actually happen at school,” he said.
“It’s certainly related to school, but it doesn’t happen in the classroom.
“Removing phones might remove the opportunity for cameras to be used or other specific things to occur, but it’s still going to happen.”