Concerns were voiced about ensuring mobile phones are allowed in the classroom for those who need them at a meeting of the South Lanarkshire Education Resources Committee.
Cllr Katy Loudon spoke out as local feedback was sought on Scottish Government mobile phone guidance in Scotland’s schools.
This provides schools and local authorities with updated advice on developing local policies regarding mobile phone use in schools.
At the Education Resources head teacher meeting in August, head teachers were asked for their views and current practices on the use of mobile technology.
It was found that a minority of primary schools had formal policies on mobile technology use. Most secondary schools have formal policies on mobile technology use and all schools were concerned about the use of ‘smart’ watches.
Most schools have reported that mobile devices are now integrated into lessons and that a complete ban could be more detrimental than beneficial to the learning environment.
School leaders have emphasised the need for more comprehensive guidance from local authorities on the use of mobile technology in schools to ensure a consistent approach.
They recognise the numerous benefits of mobile devices, including their potential to enhance learning and teaching, facilitate communication and social interactions, and, in some cases, remove barriers to learning for certain pupils.
Additionally, mobile devices can provide parents and carers with a sense of security as their children engage in more independent activities, such as walking to and from school.
Rutherglen and Hamilton West Cllr Loudon said: “I would like to praise the work of Stonelaw High school in this area as that where the Cabinet Secretary visited when the mobile guidance was being launched and Stonelaw’s work was held up as an example of good practice here with the pupils involved with the formulation of policy.
“The fact is mobile technology is often used integrated into lessons in high schools so it is sensible to take cognisance and have flexibility.
“We are talking about removing barriers to learning for certain pupils. This would mean reasonable accommodations for some pupils since an accommodation like being able to use earbuds with quiet music connected to your phone might be the difference for one pupil being able to sit in the classroom and attend school or not.
“Then in the school all of a sudden there is talk of a mobile phone ban and the phone jails and boxes are appearing in classrooms on teacher desks and that has become a point of anxiety and a trust issue for that person because this person was told it was something they would be able to use.”
Officials said the voices of young people would be listened to and their needs were accommodated as best as possible.
Committee members agreed to set up a short-life task and finish working group, comprising representatives from across Education Resources including Inclusion Services, head teachers and parents.
The group’s role will be to provide guidance on effectively communicating the details of the new guidance and to ensure appropriate consultation.
Considering the United Nations Convention on Rights of a Child (Incorporation) (Scotland) Act 2024, it is crucial that young people have a voice in any policy that affects them.
Therefore, any draft guidance document will be circulated for consultation in each school, and the views of young people will be recorded and considered before finalising the document.
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