Hungary will prohibit, starting from September 1, the use of mobile phones and other devices with internet access by students in primary and secondary schools, with some exceptions, according to Agerpres.
Students have access to mobile phones from a very young age. Photo source: archive
Mobile phones and other devices with internet access must be handed over to the teachers upon entering the educational centers, to be returned to the students at the end of the lessons. The rule establishes that mobile phones and other devices with Internet access, as well as devices for making audio-video recordings, are “objects with restricted use”. Exceptions must be justified and accepted by school principals or teachers. Also, teachers will have to check if students bring prohibited objects to class and collect them by the end of class.
A controversial rule
The decision of the authorities provoked, as expected, harsh criticism. There are many voices claiming that teachers would be turned into “gendarmes”. The order was also criticized by the Democratic Union of Teachers (PDSZ), which estimates that it was not drafted taking into account “none of the rational and legitimate concerns or objections” of the union organizations. However, some voices point out that limiting the use of mobile phones in schools is well seen by parents and including teachers, but they also believe that the correct use of these devices should be taught in educational institutions.
Strict rules in England and USA
In England, mobile phones will be completely banned in schools, including during breaks, the Government in London announced in June. According to an official statement, the decision is part of the government’s plan to reduce disruption and improve behavior in classrooms.
Also, in Los Angeles, USA, cell phones will be banned in public schools. The decision was made by the school district by vote and was announced at a time when the governor of California, the most populous state in the United States, wants to ban the use of these devices in schools to limit their impact on the mental health of students.
