Policy on the Use of Mobile Phones and Other Digital Devices

Trinity Academy

POLICY ON THE USE OF MOBILE PHONES AND OTHER DIGITAL DEVICES

(2009/10)

This policy is designed to provide clear guidance on the use of digital devices in school. It was produced following consultation with pupils, parents and staff.

The policy comprises three sections:

Section A: an introduction setting the context.

Section B: an outline of appropriate uses for digital devices.

Section C: a statement on inappropriate use, restrictions on use and sanctions.

Section A: Introduction

Personal digital devices such as mobile phones, MP3 players and

i-pods are now commonplace in our society. They can be used for entertainment but also for education.

This policy outlines how such devices can enhance learning and teaching and provides guidelines for their appropriate use.

All teachers should aim to create the best learning and teaching environment within their own classroom. To achieve this will require different approaches with different individuals. A “one size fits all” policy will not achieve the aim; there has to be flexibility. This policy recognises that individual members of staff will wish to use technologies in different ways or not use them at all.

It follows that a school policy on digital devices in the classroom should allow for flexibility but be underpinned by certain guiding principles.

Section B: Appropriate Uses for Digital Devices

It is important to stress at the outset that the use of any digital device in a classroom or other teaching situation is at the discretion of the teacher.

The opportunities to use digital devices in everyday learning and teaching are wide and they offer many advantages. A teacher might allow their use for the following reasons:

1. MP3 players can

· aid concentration

· be used as a revision tool (podcasts can be downloaded or created by teachers/pupils)

· be used to view video podcasts (both educational and otherwise)

2. Mobile Phones can be used for

· storing files

· playing music

· playing/recording video

· browsing the web

· timing tasks

· calculating

· organising and recording diary appointments (such as the dates of exams).

3. Podcasts *

· The iTunes store has an education podcast category in which all podcasts are free. Amongst others, there are literature, history, languages, PE, geography, RME sections

· There are also podcasts from New Scientist, National Geographic, Discovery Channel, Cisco, BBC, broadsheet newspapers and LT Scotland.

(* A podcast is a pre-recorded audio (or video) programme that is posted to a website and is made available for down load so people can listen to them on personal computers or mobile devices.)

Section C: Inappropriate Use, Restrictions on Use and Sanctions

1. Inappropriate Use

· No photographs at any time, in any location within the school or the school grounds.

· No abusive texting/cyber bullying

· No playing music without earphones.

2. Restrictions

(a) In Class

· The use of any electronic device is at the teacher’s discretion.

(b) Between Classes

· All devices must be switched off.

· All devices must be out of sight.

· Use of electronic devices is permitted.

(d) SQA and Prelim. Exams

· No mobile devices allowed in exam halls.

3. Sanctions

· All staff should challenge students who do not follow the policy.

· Students who are persistent offenders or are uncooperative should be referred to the appropriate year head who will take appropriate action, which could include the temporary confiscation of the device.