In the age of social media, students may need to hold off lunchtime Snapchat selfies as Education Minister James Merlino announced the ban of mobile phones in all public schools in Victoria starting from 2020.
In an attempt to reduce classroom distractions and bullying, Merlino says "this will remove a major distraction from our classrooms, so that teachers can teach, and students can learn in a more focused, positive and supported environment."
It's no question that managing mobile phone usage will be challenging for principals and teachers but students will need to switch off their phones and keep them in lockers with the exception of those who require their device to monitor health conditions. If parents or guardians need to reach their child, they will be able to contact them via the school.
While teachers unions in New South Wales have met the announcement with scepticism, Victorian schools including McKinnon Secondary College have already banned mobile phones and have seen positive outcomes. Principal Pitsa Binnion has said the school had seen an improvement in social connections and students were more focused.
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Students yet to experience the ban may not be so welcoming of the idea, however McKinnon Secondary College students have shared positive feedback with ABC News. One student sharing she didn't really "enjoy it to start with but it's now just a normal thing to do everyday and put it in your locker."
As schools have a duty of care, Merlino pointed out "half of all young people have experienced cyberbullying. By banning mobiles we can stop it at the school gate." While some may argue phone bans won't resolve cyberbullying, Merlino believes it's "the right thing to do".
Federal Education Minister Dan Tehan weighed in saying "it's very difficult for teachers to teach when they are trying to discipline against the constant use of mobile phones."
Internationally, phone devices have already been banned in French schools and provinces in Canada are also looking to follow suit. Tehan has welcomed Victoria's decision to ban phones during school hours and will be turning to international experts from France and Canada to discuss learnings.Featured Image Credit: Blake Barlow / SplashTopics: Australia