Smartphones in schools - should they be allowed?
Date: Wednesday, October 16th 2024
Time: 12:00pm-1:30pm BST (UTC+1)
This session explored the issue of smartphone use in schools, examining how these devices influence learning, social interactions, and classroom dynamics.
Session recording available
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David Smith, Headmaster of The Fulham Boys School
David Smith joined The Fulham Boys School in 2018, contributing significantly to the school’s journey towards excellence. He is firmly committed to the principle that education should be life-transforming, fostering an inclusive environment where students from diverse backgrounds learn collaboratively.
Part of David's passion to educate young people is through looking at how they live their lives; particularly through the use of technology. Childhood should be celebrated and young people should be protected to ensure they can grow into men and women of character that this world needs. Addressing the issue of smartphone use is up there in the list of top priorities for us all going forward.
Pete Etchells, Professor of Psychology and Science Communication at Bath Spa University
Pete Etchells is a professor of psychology and science communication at Bath Spa University. His research focuses on the behavioural and wellbeing impacts of digital technology use. A prolific science writer, Etchells has contributed articles to numerous publications, including New Scientist, Science Focus, the Guardian, the Observer, the New York Times, WIRED, and the Telegraph.
He was the Guardian’s science blog network coordinator for five years and has served as a science consultant for the BBC’s Horizon programme. He is the author of the critically acclaimed Lost in a Good Game: Why We Play Games and What They Can Do For Us (Icon, 2019), and Unlocked: The Real Science of Screen Time (and how to spend it better) (Piatkus, 2024).
Kerri Dunn, Principal of Burnside High School
Kerri Dunn has been the Principal at Burnside High School in Australia for the past 17 years. With a remarkable career spanning 38 years in Education Queensland, Kerri has worked extensively in various educational settings, including Aboriginal communities such as Aurukun and Kowanyama. Her passion for fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment is matched by her commitment to her students and the broader community. Kerri has been a pioneer in promoting healthier childhood experiences through education, notably leading the charge in banning smartphones in schools, a stance she has championed since 2008.
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