While banning phones may seem extreme, schools have a responsibility to foster focused learning environments.

However, Schools should also promote digital literacy, responsible technology use, and integrate technology meaningfully into the curriculum.

I find it usefull for students to put their phones in lockers during the school day, because than they can use it on teacher permision.

It is important to learn students how to use digital tecnologies, because there is a whole new unknown world.

There's no easy answer to whether banning phones is the best way for schools to ensure student well-being.

Arguments for banning phones:

• Reduces distractions: Phones can be a major source of distraction in class, hindering learning. A ban can help students focus and improve academic performance.

• Lowers stress and anxiety: Constant social media updates and the pressure to be available 24/7 can be stressful. A ban can encourage students to be present in the moment and disconnect.

• Improves social interaction: Phones can replace face-to-face interaction. Banning them can encourage students to interact with each other more, fostering social skills.

Arguments against banning phones:

• Limited effectiveness outside of school: Students will still have phones after school. The issue might be social media habits, not the devices themselves.

• Disrupts learning opportunities: Phones can be educational tools. Banning them entirely might prevent students from using them for research or creative projects.

• Breach of privacy: A complete ban can feel intrusive. Schools might consider implementing designated phone zones or time restrictions.

Alternatives to a complete ban:

• Phone designated zones and times: Allow phone use in specific areas or during breaks.

• Focus on responsible phone use: Educate students on healthy phone habits and responsible social media use.

• Promote digital literacy: Teach students how to critically evaluate information online and avoid online dangers.

While schools undoubtedly play a crucial role in fostering student well-being, the responsibility doesn't necessarily lie solely in banning phones. Instead, it may be more productive to explore alternative strategies that balance the benefits of technology with the need for healthy screen time limits. Implementing guidelines for phone use, educating students on responsible technology consumption, and fostering digital literacy skills are potential alternatives. Additionally, schools could consider creating designated times for device-free activities or incorporating mindfulness practices to promote a more balanced and mindful use of technology.

Ultimately, finding a middle ground that acknowledges the positive aspects of technology while addressing its potential drawbacks is key. It's a collaborative effort involving educators, students, parents, and policymakers to strike a balance that supports both academic learning and overall well-being in the digital age.

Schools can educate students on the proper and responsible use of phones, integrate technology into the curriculum in a meaningful way.

However, banning digital devices is not a solution.

I try to lead my students to well-being by teaching them a balanced use of smartphones. It's useful having recourse to them for educational purposes only.

Therefore, I try to provide my students with meaningful tools presented in pleasant ways

In my school, students are banned to use phones duıring the lessons , too. They have to put their phones in the locker before the lesson starts.Some teachers give permission to students to use their phones during lesson when they need it but the use of phones is under the control of the teacher.

The shift to question screen time may also stem from a recognition that balance is key when it comes to technology use, especially for young learners. While digital tools can enhance learning experiences, an overreliance on screens can have negative consequences on students' cognitive development and overall well-being. By questioning screen time, these countries are acknowledging the need to reassess the integration of technology in educational settings and prioritize human-centric approaches to learning.

Regarding the responsibility of schools in ensuring student well-being through phone policies, I believe that schools play a crucial role in setting guidelines and creating a conducive learning environment that fosters healthy technology use. Banning phones outright may be one approach to minimize distractions and encourage personal interactions, but there are indeed other options to consider. Schools can implement strategies such as designated tech-free zones, digital wellness programs, and education on responsible technology use to empower students to make informed choices.

By promoting digital literacy, mindfulness, and self-regulation skills, schools can empower students to navigate the digital world responsibly while fostering a healthy balance between technology use and personal well-being. Ultimately, a holistic approach that addresses the complex relationship between technology and well-being is key to promoting a positive and sustainable digital learning environment for students.

I allow students to use their phones when we access different apps for learning, but this is because the school does not have devices that could be accessed by all students.

I think in school we should have devices for teaching by use of technology and not allow students to use their personal phones as they easily loose their focus and check messages or online posts.

I work in an adult environment, although we have some students who are under 18, most of our students are adults, so we don't have this problem. In fact, teenagers behave amazingly well as they are surrounded by adults.

Schools want to help students stay healthy while using technology. Instead of banning phones, they're setting rules for how to use them responsibly. They're also teaching kids how to be smart online and balancing screen time with other activities like playing outside and being creative.

It's important for schools to work with parents and communities to make sure students have a healthy balance between using technology and living well.

It seems that they are questioning screen time of learners beacause they see the results are decreasing. But are they able to separate the influence of using technology of other factors like the changing of the way school is faced by society?

And excluding tecnhology from school isn´t excluding an important part of todays society. Will they only search for information in books, for example? It souns a bit narrow...

Limiting the use of phones to the times that teachers ask students seems a good way to increase well-being, specially in younger childrens and young teens.

But I think the problem is also the screentime outside school, and it starts when adults give a 1 year old child a smartphone so they can have dinner without being disturbed!!!! :(

Schools want to help students stay healthy while using technology. But banning phones is not a good idea.

For example, I sometimes allow my students to use phones at lessons for some tasks: make a servey, surch some infirmation or word definition, play kahoot, write a message on some definite topic or to write a dialogue as messsages between 2 students etc.

School're setting rules for how to use phones and technologies responsibly. They're also teaching kids how to be smart online and balancing screen time with other activities like playing outside and being creative.

In ours chool we teache our students how to be smart in Internet, tell about e-security. In the condition of th remote learning we try to balance our tasks, combine online lesson and home-self off tasks.

This year we've started the Digital school for teachers and often run workshops for our students (reraly for parents).

It's important for schools to work with parents and communities to make sure students have a healthy balance between using technology and living well.

In ours chool we teache our students how to be smart in Internet, tell about e-security. In the condition of th remote learning we try to balance our tasks, combine online lesson and home-self off tasks.
In ours chool we teache our students how to be smart in Internet, tell about e-security. In the condition of th remote learning we try to balance our tasks, combine online lesson and home-self off tasks.

, and this awareness should start with us as adults, as we serve as role models for our students. If we aim to reduce screen time now, it's important that they do not see us excessively using our devices.

Children copy adult behaviour ... as a consequence for most teens digital is taking control over their lives with serious health problems emerging.

I believe that schools play a crucial role in promoting a healthy learning environment, and if banning phones is seen as a necessary step to achieve that, then it could be a valid approach. However, there may be other options to consider, such as implementing guidelines for responsible phone use or providing alternative activities that don't involve screens.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a conducive learning environment that supports students' well-being and academic success. It's important for schools to continuously evaluate their policies and practices to ensure they are meeting the needs of their students in the best way possible.

From my point of view, we should seek a balance in order to develop our students' skills, and this also means that they should be able to produce texts by hand, to calculate and solve problems, to relate to their peers without the use of technology, to face society and present arguments....

As a teacher, I am very interested in the use of technology as a learning tool, but as a mother, I know that the excessive use of technology can cause problems for students and discomfort for families: dependence, deception, addiction, overexposure, dangerous contacts...

But, stopping phones might not fix everything. Instead, schools can:

1. Decide times when phones are okay.

2. Teach kids how to use phones wisely.

3. Encourage activities without screens.

Together, schools, parents, and kids can find a good way to use technology and stay happy and healthy.

In our school, we've banned mobile phones, aligning with Greece's policy. But I believe there's more to it than just banning. Education and awareness are crucial. We need to teach kids how to use technology responsibly and understand its effects. Guidelines and policies are important too, setting boundaries without being too restrictive. And involving parents is key; we need their support to reinforce these habits at home.

In parallel of a ban, we should provide alternative devices such as tablets or computers, ensuring that every student can access online or automated work under the teacher supervision. Clear guidelines and boundaries should be implemented by the school regarding their use, and students should be trained in the use of digital tools.

But I have worked at other schools where it was a big issue. Students had to give their phones to the teacher at the beginning of the day, and the teacher gave them back at the end.

Now I have a son in secondary school who has his phone with him all day, and he plays games and watches videos, but he is not using it for school work, besides occasionally taking a photo of someone else's notes. I think school is better for kids without them.

There are important social skills that you don't learn when you always have a phone to turn to.

It is an easy way to keep kids quiet and calm, but they don't learn to manage themselves without it.

They don't play with blocks or cars or stuffed animals if they have a phone.

They don't read books or write notes on paper to their friends when they have a phone.

Students cannot be in front of a computer in every single class, we know the disadvantages that it has in health.

But it doesn´t mean that they cannot use computers or any other device. The school must be in agreement and create a plan for that, in which they organise the time students are using devices at school.

Personally, I think it is a good idea. The 1st time we celebrated the International day without mobiles was more than 20 years ago! (febr. 6th)

I agrre with thet the secreen time is an important issue for the development of the students.

Moreover, the shift towards questioning screen time may stem from research highlighting the importance of minimizing screen time for children's physical and mental health, as well as concerns about distractions and negative effects on academic performance. Additionally, there may be a recognition that excessive screen time can hinder social interaction, creativity, and physical activity, which are essential for holistic development.

While it may not be solely the school's responsibility to ensure well-being by banning phones, schools play a crucial role in promoting healthy technology habits and fostering a supportive learning environment. Instead of outright bans, schools can implement strategies such as educating students about responsible technology use, setting clear guidelines for phone use during class time, and providing alternative activities that encourage engagement and interaction without relying solely on digital devices.

Other options besides banning or writing guidelines for phone use include incorporating technology-free periods or activities into the school day, promoting face-to-face communication and social interaction, and providing resources and support for students to develop digital literacy skills and self-regulation strategies. By taking a proactive and balanced approach to technology use, schools can support students' well-being while harnessing the benefits of educational technologies.

Students cannot be in front of a computer in every single class every single lesson of the day. We know that there are lot of disadvantages that have in health.

The school must create a plan for every activity and subject, in which they organize the time students are using devices at school.

It is not a question of screen exposure. We can decide how much our students can be in front of a screen. Having a computer in the class does not mean that students must use it in all subjects, all day and continuously. In some cases it would be necessary and not in others. So, it depends on our perspective and how the school plans to use devices.

Regarding the use of the mobile, my school banned its use last year though this year there is a law in Spain regulating the use of mobiles in schools: mobiles are now banned in schools and only if the teachers require its use students can carry it to school. I believe the measure to be a good one because students are dependent of this device. However, it does not solve the problem. A better action would be to teach students how to use their smartphones in a school context. If we teach them how to benefit from the device without interfering their learning process, smartphones could be used in schools. There are apps and programs such as Blooket, Wordwall, etc, that students love and are highly motivated.

We live in a digital era and as teachers we should teach our students to use digital devices. For me digital well-being has to do with a well-designed digital education.

• Concerns About Screen Time: Excessive screen time has been linked to issues like attention problems, sleep disturbances, and cyberbullying. These countries might be prioritizing student well-being and reducing potential negative impacts.

• Focus and Learning: Phones can be a distraction in the classroom. By limiting phone use, these schools might be aiming to improve student focus and concentration during learning time.

• Social Interaction: Concerns about students neglecting face-to-face interaction in favor of phones could be a factor. Banning phones might encourage more in-person communication and social development.

• Re-evaluating Technology's Role: Perhaps these countries are reevaluating the role of technology in education. They might be prioritizing traditional learning methods or focusing on technology integration that complements, rather than replaces, in-person learning.

The child's parents should thoroughly learn the importance of awareness about the benefits and harms of technology.

In my school using smartphone and smartwatches is forbidden. And I think it's really great.

Students need to be able to concentrate and need to be given the opportunity to study well. Mobile phones are a disturbance, scientific research shows. We need to protect students against this.

The ban is the result of an agreement between the ministry, schools and related organisations.

Schools can find their own way to organise the ban...

"Students need to be able to concentrate and need to be given the opportunity to study well.

Mobile phones are a disturbance, scientific research shows!!!

I do not believe that a complete ban on phones is the only solution. While it may be helpful in certain contexts, such as during lessons or exams, a strict ban can also lead to frustration or attempts to bypass the rules. I think it is more important to educate students on how to use their devices in a responsible and mindful way. This is part of their digital citizenship development.

Another possible approach would be to define specific times or contexts where phone use is allowed, for example at the beginning or end of a lesson for a specific task, or to design learning activities that integrate phones as educational tools in a clear and structured manner. This helps students understand that their phone can be useful, but only when used consciously and with purpose.

Finally, I think it is essential to involve students in reflecting on their digital well-being. Through surveys, discussions, or workshops, they can become more aware of their digital habits and how these affect their focus, sleep, or relationships. This could help guide them toward a healthier balance.

These countries were once pioneers in promoting educational technology, yet now they question how and when it should be used. I believe schools have a role not just in banning devices but in teaching students how to use technology wisely. Alternatives like digital literacy education, clear usage rules, and creating tech-free times could balance well-being and digital skills.

It’s a complex issue, and I’m interested to hear how others view the responsibility of schools in managing phone use.

I think there are other options than banning or writing guidelines for phone use,

They include:

• Digital Literacy Education

• Collaborative Policy Making

• Creating "Phone-Free" Zones/Times

• Engaging Lessons

• Promoting Alternatives

Schools have a duty to help students use technology appropriately, but banning phones entirely may be too much. It's better to teach students how to use them responsibly.

Instead of a ban, technology-free breaks can be implemented, activities can be created that use phones only when necessary, and students and families can be educated about responsible use.

I do think schools have a role in promoting digital well-being, but a total ban on phones might not be the most effective or flexible approach. Instead, schools could introduce “phone-free zones” or designated times for digital and non-digital activities. Guidelines on healthy screen use, combined with digital literacy education, can empower students to manage their own habits rather than relying solely on rules. In this way, students develop self-regulation skills that will serve them beyond the school environment. The aim should be to model and teach responsible digital use, rather than completely removing the tools from students’ hands.

I believe it is partly the school’s responsibility to support students’ well-being, but a complete ban on phones may not be the only solution. Alternatives could include:

• Scheduled phone-free periods to encourage face-to-face interaction,

• Teaching digital literacy and self-regulation skills so students can manage their own screen time responsibly,

• Using technology mindfully for specific learning activities rather than unrestricted access.

In my opinion, a combination of clear guidelines, student education, and strategic use of technology is more sustainable than a strict ban, while still protecting students’ well-being.

Schools do have some responsibility here. Phones can distract and affect social life. But I don’t think banning them completely is the best answer. Students also need to learn how to use technology responsibly. If we only ban, we lose the chance to teach self-control and digital citizenship. I think setting clear rules can solve the problem.

Schools can also focus on educating students about responsible device use, incorporating structured tech breaks, and designing engaging offline activities that complement digital learning. In PE classes, for example, we can use digital tools sparingly to enhance learning but prioritize movement, collaboration, and social interaction. I think it’s a shared responsibility—teachers, students, and parents all play a role in maintaining digital well-being.

I believe schools have some responsibility to protect students’ well-being, but simply “banning phones” is not always the best solution. Alternatively, schools can educate students on responsible device use, create designated tech-free times, and promote screen-free activities that encourage collaboration and creativit

I think it is interesting that Denmark and the Netherlands are changing their minds. They probably see that students are more distracted and maybe have less social contact because of too much screen time.

In my opinion, a complete ban on phones is not the best solution. Technology is a part of our world, and we need to teach students how to use it correctly. If we just ban phones, students will not learn the responsibility.

A better way is to create clear rules. For example, "phones are not allowed in the classroom, but you can use them during lunch break." Also, schools can use phones for learning activities sometimes. This shows students that a phone can be a tool for learning, not just for games.

So, I believe it is the school's responsibility, but not by banning. It is their responsibility to teach digital skills and find a good balance.

I think schools have a responsibility to support students’ well-being, but banning phones completely might not be the best or only answer. Instead of just taking devices away, schools could help students learn how to use them responsibly. That means teaching digital balance, online safety, and self-control.

Other options could include having tech-free times during the day, creating digital wellness lessons, or even letting students help make rules about phone use. This way, they feel more responsible and aware.

In the end, it’s not about rejecting technology but about finding the right balance — using it to learn and connect, without letting it take over our lives.

Even though these countries were among the first to promote educational technologies decades ago, experience has shown that excessive screen time negatively affects students’ focus and learning outcomes.

This is why they are now pioneers in limiting it. I believe schools have a responsibility to ensure students’ well-being by teaching important skills such as social communication and concentration, which constant phone use and notifications can hinder.

In my view, phones should be completely banned during school hours, as this helps students stay focused and reduces distractions. The experience of Denmark and the Netherlands shows that banning or limiting screen use can be an effective way to protect students’ well-being.

Their current stance is about restoring balance: leveraging the benefits of digital tools while preserving authentic, embodied, and relational learning experiences.

In my opinion, a complete ban on phones may be too rigid as these are integral to both learning and everyday life, so it may be more productive to teach students responsible and balanced digital habits rather than simply restricting access.

Instead, schools should act as mentors, helping learners develop digital discipline—understanding when and how to use devices productively.

I believe schools do have a role in supporting well-being, but banning phones is only one approach. Clear routines, digital literacy education, and balanced use of technology can be just as effective. Involving students in creating agreements about phone use may also encourage responsibility rather than relying solely on restrictions.

• Cognitive and social impact: Excessive screen time can affect attention span, deep reading skills, and face-to-face social interaction.

• Mental health concerns: Studies link high screen use to anxiety, sleep disruption, and reduced physical activity.

• Learning quality: While tech can enhance learning, it doesn’t always outperform traditional methods for critical thinking and creativity.

So, their shift isn’t anti-technology—it’s about balance and evidence-based practice. They’re asking: How much tech is too much? and What is the right context for its use?

Should schools ban phones to ensure well-being?

This is controversial. On one hand:

• Pros: Reduces distractions, improves focus, and encourages real-world social interaction.

• Cons: Phones can be useful for learning, emergencies, and digital literacy. A blanket ban might feel authoritarian and ignore the need to teach responsible use.

Instead of banning, schools could teach digital self-regulation—helping students develop healthy habits rather than imposing strict control. Students in my school are not allowed to use mobile phone (for the past 8 or 9 years) but they use technology while in class, it means that we tend to lead them to use technology for educational purposes but restrict its use during breaks for instance.

Other options can also include:

1. Digital literacy programs: Teach students how to manage screen time and use tech mindfully.

2. Tech-free zones/times: Create spaces or periods for offline activities without banning devices entirely.

3. Parental collaboration: Align school policies with home practices for consistency.

4. Purpose-driven tech use: Only use screens when they add clear educational value.

5. Student involvement: Let learners help design policies—this increases buy-in and responsibility.

As a teacher, I see that adopting these practices means not only providing access to digital tools, but also teaching students how to use them mindfully—encouraging breaks, fostering critical thinking, and ensuring inclusivity. Digital wellbeing is not just about limiting devices; it is about creating a safe, supportive environment where technology enhances learning without overwhelming students.

Schools do have a responsibility to safeguard students’ well-being, but a complete ban is not the only solution. Alternatively, clear rules for responsible use, the development of digital literacy, and meaningful collaboration with students could be implemented. In this way, learners can be taught how to manage technology effectively rather than simply avoid it.

The examples of Denmark and the Netherlands show that even highly digitalised countries are starting to limit the use of devices to protect students’ health and attention.

I partly agree with these measures, as excessive use of phones can distract students and affect their learning and communication.

However, I think that a complete ban is not the only solution. It is important to teach students how to use digital technologies responsibly.

In my practice, I try to:

balance digital and traditional learning methods

limit screen time

use technology only for educational purposes

create a safe and supportive environment

I think it's right to regulate, and especially define, the time students spend on devices. I also agree with banning cell phone use in schools because students are always trying to find the quickest route and don't always think for themselves. Sometimes they let artificial intelligence do their homework out of laziness. This limits their creativity and intelligence and prevents them from exercising. Technology is now part of our time, so we must learn to live with it and, above all, teach the new generations to use it with awareness and critical thinking.

In my opinion, it is understandable that schools want to protect students’ well-being. Mobile phones can be very distracting, and I have also seen in my own practice how they can affect concentration and classroom dynamics. In this sense, I believe schools do have a responsibility to create a balanced and focused learning environment.

However, I am not sure if a complete ban is always the best solution. Digital devices can also be valuable learning tools when used in a purposeful and structured way. Instead of banning them completely, I think it may be more effective to teach students how to use technology responsibly and to set clear rules for when and how devices can be used.

Other possible approaches could include:

• Designating specific times or activities for device use

• Encouraging more offline, interactive learning

• Promoting digital well-being and awareness among students

I believe the key is balance. Technology should support learning, not replace human interaction. As teachers, our role is not only to limit technology, but also to guide students in using it in a healthy and meaningful way.

I believe this shift has happened because of increased research evidence highlighting issues such as reduced attention spans, digital fatigue, sleep disruption, and the negative effects of constant connectivity. As a result, there is now a stronger focus on digital well-being rather than simply digital integration.

Regarding whether schools should ban phones, I believe this is a complex issue. Schools do have a responsibility to protect students’ well-being, and in some cases, restricting phone use during lessons can be beneficial to reduce distractions and improve focus. However, a complete ban may not be the most effective long-term solution, as it does not teach students how to manage technology responsibly.

Instead of strict bans, I think a more balanced approach is needed. This could include:

• clear and consistent guidelines for appropriate phone use

• digital citizenship education to develop self-regulation skills

• structured use of devices for learning purposes under teacher guidance

• designated phone-free times and spaces within the school day

Overall, the goal should not be to eliminate technology, but to help students develop healthy, responsible, and mindful digital habits that will support them both inside and outside the classroom.

I think schools have a responsibility to promote digital well-being, but I am not sure that a complete ban on phones is always the best solution. Instead, schools should help students develop responsible and balanced digital habits.

As a primary school teacher, I see the value of combining digital activities with hands-on learning, outdoor experiences, collaborative work, and face-to-face communication. Technology should support learning, not replace human interaction.

Rather than banning devices completely, I would support clear guidelines, digital citizenship education, and age-appropriate rules. Students need opportunities to learn when and how to use technology effectively and responsibly.

I believe that Denmark and the Netherlands are questioning screen time because they have extensive experience with educational technologies and can now evaluate both the benefits and the challenges. Their goal is not to reject technology but to find a healthier balance between digital and non-digital learning experiences.

I believe it is partly the school’s responsibility to protect students’ well-being, but a complete ban on phones may not be the most balanced solution. Instead, schools could focus on clear rules for purposeful use, digital literacy education, and teaching students how to manage their screen time responsibly.

Other options could include phone-free lessons combined with designated digital learning activities, awareness programmes about digital well-being, and involving students in creating agreements for responsible use.