The Facts
A new UNESCO report released on Tuesday has recommended banning smartphones in schools globally to enhance critical thinking and improve learning.
The report found that smartphones had a detrimental impact on children’s emotional stability and educational performance, and that a ban is essential to protect students from online bullying.
The Spin
Narrative A
Educators, school administration, and parents must heed UNESCO’s call to ban smartphones in schools as they are extremely detrimental to children’s learning, social skills, and mental health. The mere presence of a smartphone is enough to reduce a child’s cognitive capacity. These gadgets are not just becoming a distraction for students and wasting their time, they are forcing teachers to change their focus from education to discipline.
Narrative B
Banning smartphones entirely from schools is dangerous, as it could make it difficult for students to contact their parents in emergencies, including in cases of physical bullying. Instead of an outright ban, children must be taught how to use their smartphones responsibly. Absolute restrictions may or may not limit distractions, but responsible usage will make personal technology an unparalleled teaching tool.
