News
October 13, 2025
Regulate, Not Ban, Children’s Smartphone Use in Schools, Experts Urge
El CiudadanoIn recent years, smartphone use has become widespread across society, and today even children and adolescents have their own devices—fueling debate over whether phones are beneficial in educational settings. In response, specialists at the University of La Serena analyzed the pros and cons of the issue and examined how technology is reshaping how students learn. [...]La entrada Regulate, Not Ban, Children’s Smartphone Use in Schools, Experts Urge se publicó primero en El Ciudadano.
Experts at the University of La Serena are urging schools to regulate, rather than outright ban, smartphone use among children. The call comes amidst a growing debate over the impact of these devices on education, with concerns about distraction often pitted against the potential benefits of technology in the classroom.
The widespread adoption of smartphones, even among young children and adolescents, has sparked intense discussions about their place in educational settings. While some argue that phones are a major source of disruption, others believe they can be valuable learning tools if used appropriately. Recognizing the complexity of the issue, researchers at the University of La Serena have delved into the potential advantages and disadvantages of smartphone use in schools.
Their analysis focuses on how technology is fundamentally changing the way students learn. Rather than simply dismissing smartphones as a distraction, the experts emphasize the need to understand how these devices are reshaping the learning process. A blanket ban, they argue, may prevent students from developing crucial digital literacy skills and accessing valuable educational resources.
The experts suggest that schools should instead focus on developing clear and comprehensive policies that regulate smartphone use. These policies could address issues such as when and where phones are allowed, what activities are permitted, and the consequences of misuse. By establishing clear guidelines, schools can minimize distractions while still allowing students to leverage the educational benefits of smartphones.
Furthermore, the researchers advocate for educating students about responsible smartphone use. This includes teaching them about digital citizenship, online safety, and the importance of balancing screen time with other activities. By empowering students to make informed decisions about their smartphone use, schools can foster a more positive and productive learning environment.
Ultimately, the University of La Serena experts believe that a balanced approach is essential. By regulating rather than banning smartphones, schools can harness the potential of technology to enhance learning while mitigating the risks of distraction and misuse. This approach requires careful planning, clear communication, and a commitment to educating students about responsible digital citizenship.
The widespread adoption of smartphones, even among young children and adolescents, has sparked intense discussions about their place in educational settings. While some argue that phones are a major source of disruption, others believe they can be valuable learning tools if used appropriately. Recognizing the complexity of the issue, researchers at the University of La Serena have delved into the potential advantages and disadvantages of smartphone use in schools.
Their analysis focuses on how technology is fundamentally changing the way students learn. Rather than simply dismissing smartphones as a distraction, the experts emphasize the need to understand how these devices are reshaping the learning process. A blanket ban, they argue, may prevent students from developing crucial digital literacy skills and accessing valuable educational resources.
The experts suggest that schools should instead focus on developing clear and comprehensive policies that regulate smartphone use. These policies could address issues such as when and where phones are allowed, what activities are permitted, and the consequences of misuse. By establishing clear guidelines, schools can minimize distractions while still allowing students to leverage the educational benefits of smartphones.
Furthermore, the researchers advocate for educating students about responsible smartphone use. This includes teaching them about digital citizenship, online safety, and the importance of balancing screen time with other activities. By empowering students to make informed decisions about their smartphone use, schools can foster a more positive and productive learning environment.
Ultimately, the University of La Serena experts believe that a balanced approach is essential. By regulating rather than banning smartphones, schools can harness the potential of technology to enhance learning while mitigating the risks of distraction and misuse. This approach requires careful planning, clear communication, and a commitment to educating students about responsible digital citizenship.
Category:
Politics