This procedure promotes the learning, safety and wellbeing of students and the management of any risk of harm and distraction from the use of digital technology accessed via a mobile phone, smart watch, or other personal electronic device. Thank you to those who completed the 2022 survey, informing us about your wishes for the future of learning at UHS (Ulladulla High School). Based on consultation among students, staff and the school community, Ulladulla High School has made the decision to go mobile phone free for students at the commencement of Term 1, 2023.
The procedures
For the purposes of this procedure document, ‘mobile phones and other personal electronic devices’ includes smart watches and all other electronic devices (including iPods and other branded tablets), as well as their associated listening accessories – such as, but not limited to, headphones, ear pods and ear buds. This procedure outlines the procedures to manage student use of these devices at Ulladulla High School.
In NSW public schools secondary school principals, in consultation with their communities, have discretion to make decisions about restricting or permitting student use of digital devices and online services in all school-related settings, including at recess, lunch and during class. Digital devices and online services are an important part of everyday life, shaping the way children and young people learn, communicate, work and play. Learning environments, at school and at home, should support students to develop technological, social, and emotional competencies. This support should maximise the benefits and minimise the risks of digital environments and prepare students for life beyond school.
The aim of this procedure is to provide:
· a safe environment to learn without inappropriate mobile phone use or distractions.
· greater opportunities for social interaction and physical activity during recess and lunchtimes.
Rationale
While mobile phones and other such devices have significant advantages for use in the broader community their use in schools is highly problematic. In schools, mobile phones are significant distractors to learning and contribute to a student’s cognitive load. They can also pose a significant risk to the safety and wellbeing of students through unfiltered/ unsupervised access to the internet and social networking platforms.
The use of technology is important, but the risks and benefits need to be managed. A summary of research used to inform this procedure can be found at the end of this document.
Please refer to the UHS Mobile Phone Procedure