Examining the regulation of smart devices in schools
The Education and Youth Development Bureau (DSEDJ) announced last month that it would introduce guidelines for schools to regulate students’ use of smartphones and electronic devices on campus in the next academic year. In response, a team of student journalists from Pui Ching Middle School interviewed their peers, teachers, and parents to gather their perspectives on the issue. Here are their findings:
A Secondary 5 student named Vinci said that mobile devices were great equipment for him to study and learn English. He mentioned that it was more convenient for him to take notes using an iPad. Therefore, he was opposed to restricting mobile devices at school. However, he also mentioned that students could easily be distracted by social media platforms and start conversations through social media apps. Still, he believed he could control himself during classes.
A senior high school student named Si Fong argued that mobile devices should be restricted in schools due to their negative effects. He said that the potential impact of electronic devices on academic performance could not be ignored since primary and junior high school students struggled to regulate their mobile phone usage. Similarly, according to Si Fong, excessive use of mobile devices could significantly reduce motivation to study. He believed that limiting mobile device usage could encourage more face-to-face social interactions and in-person gatherings with friends.
A senior high school student named Athena Leong said she believed that mobile devices should not be restricted in schools. “It would be too depressing for students if they couldn’t use any mobile devices during school time.” However, Athena thought that students should only use their smart devices during recess and when the teacher gave them permission to do so.
A high school teacher named Mr Ng argued that electronic devices should be completely banned in school. He mentioned concerns about seeing students using mobile phones in the hallways as they were walking. Sometimes, they even played games on their phones. Therefore, he said he hoped the school would enforce stricter rules to address this issue.
A primary school teacher, Mr Joel, said that mobile devices should be restricted to primary students at all times, while students studying in Secondary 3 or the above levels could be allowed to use devices for research and homework. “We use mobile phones every day,” mentioned Mr Joel, “Although this is not the best way, it still helps them complete their schoolwork, as it is easier to find information on the internet.”
Mr Chan, a parent of a primary student, said that he supported students using mobile devices. “Even though schools ban the use of mobile devices, students will still secretly play on their devices.” He also mentioned that he chose to give his child freedom. He said he believed that letting them experience the negative impacts first could also help them recognise the correct use of mobile devices.
A parent, Mr Leong, expressed strong support for restricting mobile devices in school. He thought that using mobile devices in school might distract students’ attention. “Most of the students use mobile devices to play games in class instead of learning.” As a result, he said he hoped the school could set up more restrictive rules to tackle this phenomenon.
A parent, with her child studying in Primary 3, objected to the motion of banning electronic devices since she thought it was important to let the students adapt to current trends with an appropriate approach and time management skills. She also said that self-discipline against temptation could act as great training for children.
Student reporters:
S6A Jacqueline Kong Chi Lam, J6B Jayden Chao Seong Lai,
S6E Lunar Ho Weng In, S6E Joanne Chan Oi I,
S6F Miriam Cheong Sin In, S6F Haley Kou Iat Hei,
S5A Dickson Ng Kuan Hou, S5F Laverna Lei Hoi Lam L
Advisors:
Ms Rachel Tou Wing Sze, Ms Kelly Ka Ka Chong
These photos recently sent to The Young Post show Pui Ching students conducting on-campus interviews with their peers and teachers.
