This week, the Netherlands captured global attention with its decision to ban smart devices, including cell phones, smartwatches, and tablets, from primary and secondary schools.
The Dutch government cites these gadgets as major distractions that undermine academic performance and social interaction. This move follows a similar ban enacted in England earlier this year.
In contrast, many schools in the UAE have already implemented strict technology policies, emphasizing responsible use and minimizing distractions in the classroom.
According to education experts, these measures are designed to balance the benefits of technology with the need for focused learning environments.
Lisa Johnson, Principal of the American Academy for Girls in Dubai, explained the school’s approach to managing mobile phones. “We have a strict policy regarding mobile phones.
While students are allowed to carry phones, they are not permitted to use them in class without explicit teacher permission,” she said. Johnson outlined a graduated consequence system for policy violations, which includes warnings and, if necessary, confiscation of the device.
“Further infractions result in the phone being held by the principal, and parents must come to retrieve it,” she added. Johnson also highlighted the school’s efforts to encourage responsible technology use.
“Students in Grade 1 and up are required to have laptops or tablets, which have similar capabilities to smartphones. To mitigate potential distractions, we have introduced timed tech zones during break times where students can use their devices in designated areas for limited periods,” she explained.
The school is also considering innovative approaches, such as using exercise equipment as a ‘ticket’ for technology use during breaks, promoting both physical activity and responsible tech use.
Additionally, schools in Dubai are equipped with robust network filters that block access to social media sites, aiming to minimize distractions and protect students from inappropriate content.
“We continually monitor and update these filters, regularly adding new sites to the blocked list as necessary,” Johnson said.
However, she acknowledged the challenge of enforcing these policies, noting that while students often use their devices for educational purposes, guiding them on wise and productive use remains a priority.
The UAE’s schools also emphasize the importance of home-school partnerships in managing technology use. Simon Herbert, Head of School/CEO at GEMS International School – Al Khail, shared that secondary students are allowed to bring phones to school but must keep them in their lockers or bags during the day.
“Phones are discouraged in primary school, as stated in our handbook for families,” Herbert noted.
He also stressed that technology should enhance educational experiences rather than being used for its own sake. “Technology is a powerful tool, but it must be justified in lessons. Effective planning with educators is key,” he added.
In summary, while the Netherlands has opted for a blanket ban on smart devices in schools to curb distractions, UAE schools have adopted a more nuanced approach.
They emphasize responsible technology use, robust filtering systems, and strong home-school collaboration to create a balanced and focused learning environment.