As cell phones become even more ingrained in students’ daily lives, K-12 schools face unique challenges and opportunities in managing their use among students. While cell phones offer learning tools, accessibility support, and emergency communication, they can also disrupt the classroom and introduce privacy concerns.
The CoSN EdTech Innovation Committee’s new resource, “Navigating Student Cell Phone Use in Schools: Current Insights for U.S. K-12 Educators & Leaders,” is designed to guide K-12 EdTech leaders when thinking about cell phone bans, grounded in the current moment-in-time. Developed during the Committee’s October 2024 monthly meeting, the resource provides perspectives, definitions, considerations, and current resources to help leaders explore the complexities and consider the topic within their specific context.
Topics that are discussed within the resource include:
- Accessibility
- Digital Equity
- Digital Wellness
- Digital Skills & Literacy
- Emergency & Crisis
- Limited Resources (including tips for small and under-resourced districts)
- State/Federal Policy
“This resource is designed to help EdTech leaders make informed decisions that support both learning and student well-being,” said David Jarboe (D2 Harrison Schools, Colorado), co-chair of the EdTech Innovation Committee. “By addressing important topics like accessibility, safety, and digital citizenship, this resource equips schools with the tools to create thoughtful, flexible policies that reflect the unique needs of their students, families, and teachers in today’s digital world.”
Key Considerations for Schools and Districts
Developing effective cell phone policies requires understanding the varied roles these devices play in students’ lives. Cell phones can be powerful tools for learning, especially in under-resourced districts where they may serve as essential devices for tasks like translation in ESL programs.
However, balancing these advantages with the need to reduce distractions and maintain a safe environment is complex. Policies that consider both educational benefits and potential drawbacks can help schools create a balanced approach.
Navigating cell phone use in schools requires collaboration, flexibility, and ongoing dialogue among students, parents, teachers, and administrators to create productive policies that will allow the district to thrive. “This practical resource empowers EdTech leaders to guide schools in making strategic, evidence-based decisions about cell phone use,” said Emily Marshall (Vail School District, Arizona), co-chair of the EdTech Innovation Committee. “Our hope is that it will also give administrators the information they need to support responsible, effective technology integration in the classroom while promoting a safe and healthy learning environment.
AUTHOR: Stephanie King, Writer and Communications Manager,
CoSN’s EdTech Innovations Committee and Driving K-12 Innovation
Published on: November 21, 2024
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