A generation gap has emerged in the debate over blanket smartphone bans in schools, with young people accusing adults of being out of touch. Research from University College London (UCL) found that three-quarters of pupils aged 11 to 18 disagree with complete bans, while a large majority of teachers and parents support them.
The UCL study, which gathered insights from 732 students, 27 teachers and 41 parents, reveals a significant divide on the issue. While 87% of teachers and 88% of parents backed a ban, young people highlighted the importance of smartphones in their daily lives – for navigation, staying informed, managing homework and feeling safe when travelling alone.
Students also expressed concerns that bans might push digital issues like cyberbullying and sexual harassment underground. Without access to their phones, they said, they might feel less able to report such incidents to adults, potentially exacerbating the problems rather than resolving them.
Lead author Professor Jessica Ringrose said students viewed blanket bans as undermining trust, suggesting that adults fail to grasp the fundamental role smartphones play in young people's routines. Co-author Dawn Aytoun recommended schools discuss the ethical and societal aspects of the digital world with pupils, rather than simply imposing bans.
The Department for Education responded by reaffirming its commitment to online safety skills, including new guidance for parents and curriculum updates to enhance media literacy.