Leading the way on best practice use of mobile phones in schools

The Morrison Government is leading a national approach to the best practice use of mobile phones in classrooms. 

The Government put mobile phones in schools on the agenda of today’s Education Council meeting and arranged for world-leading experts to present their findings to all state and territory education ministers. 

“The Morrison Government is delivering on its election commitment to working with state and territory governments on best practice policies on mobile phone use in classrooms,”
Mr Tehan said. 

“Today Education Council heard from four internationally renowned experts about best practice mobile phone policies in schools. 

“Research by Assistant Professor Louis-Philippe Beland from Canada found the positive effect of banning mobile phones was equivalent to an additional hour a week in school, or increasing the school year by five days. 

“His research also found the positive effect was even greater for low-achieving students, with a mobile phone ban the equivalent of an additional two hours a week, or 10 school days a year. 

“Student wellbeing is an issue for parents and teachers, particularly with the rise of cyberbullying and the inappropriate use of new technology. 

“There is also emerging evidence of a correlation between social media use and an increase in anxiety and depression in young people. 

“Our Government believes that banning mobile phones from the classroom will encourage students to focus on learning by removing a significant distraction. 

“We support the Victorian policy to restrict mobile phones in their schools and our Government will work with any jurisdiction to limit their use in schools.”