Parents News Forum
Mobile tech in schools defended by ex-teacher
Quote from Fergus McCarthy on April 29, 2025, 2:10 pmMobile tech: Hugh Grant’s call sparks debate
Actor Hugh Grant recently joined psychologist Dr Jonathan Haidt in advocating for screen-free schools and social media bans for under-16s. They voiced concerns about rising screen addiction among children. However, education experts at Save My Exams suggest a more balanced perspective. Rather than outright bans, they promote responsible mobile tech use and digital literacy.
Learning not scrolling
Lucy Kirkham, Head of STEM at Save My Exams, challenges the view that phones only distract students. She urges schools to see phones as learning tools, not just social devices. “Used wisely, mobiles support revision, enhance engagement and build lifelong skills,” she explains.
Apps like Duolingo and Kahoot! already boost engagement in many classrooms. These tools transform revision into active learning and improve knowledge retention.
Revision on the move with mobile tech
According to Save My Exams’ research, 90% of students use mobile platforms to revise. From digital flashcards to audio notes, mobile access supports learning beyond the classroom. Students apply methods like the 2 3 5 7 revision rule, leading to stronger outcomes. Studies show a solid revision plan can boost exam performance by 30%.
Teaching tech, not banning it
Helping pupils develop digital literacy prepares them for future success. Schools should teach how to manage screen time, use educational apps, and understand digital wellbeing.
“Instead of banning mobile tech, we should guide students in using it well,” says Kirkham. “That’s how we build responsible digital citizens.”
Research supports a balanced approach
The University of Birmingham found study found no link between banning phones and improved academic performance. Experts like Dr Victoria Goodyear agree: how students use phones matters more than how much.
Kirkham adds: “Let’s replace crackdowns with conversations. Today’s students need guidance, not restrictions, to make smart digital choices.”
Supporting over 1.5 million students
Save My Exams provides top-quality revision tools for GCSE, IGCSE, A Level and IB students. Their resources, built by experienced teachers, support over 1.5 million learners each month.
Mobile tech: Hugh Grant’s call sparks debate
Actor Hugh Grant recently joined psychologist Dr Jonathan Haidt in advocating for screen-free schools and social media bans for under-16s. They voiced concerns about rising screen addiction among children. However, education experts at Save My Exams suggest a more balanced perspective. Rather than outright bans, they promote responsible mobile tech use and digital literacy.
Learning not scrolling
Lucy Kirkham, Head of STEM at Save My Exams, challenges the view that phones only distract students. She urges schools to see phones as learning tools, not just social devices. “Used wisely, mobiles support revision, enhance engagement and build lifelong skills,” she explains.
Apps like Duolingo and Kahoot! already boost engagement in many classrooms. These tools transform revision into active learning and improve knowledge retention.
Revision on the move with mobile tech
According to Save My Exams’ research, 90% of students use mobile platforms to revise. From digital flashcards to audio notes, mobile access supports learning beyond the classroom. Students apply methods like the 2 3 5 7 revision rule, leading to stronger outcomes. Studies show a solid revision plan can boost exam performance by 30%.
Teaching tech, not banning it
Helping pupils develop digital literacy prepares them for future success. Schools should teach how to manage screen time, use educational apps, and understand digital wellbeing.
“Instead of banning mobile tech, we should guide students in using it well,” says Kirkham. “That’s how we build responsible digital citizens.”
Research supports a balanced approach
The University of Birmingham found study found no link between banning phones and improved academic performance. Experts like Dr Victoria Goodyear agree: how students use phones matters more than how much.
Kirkham adds: “Let’s replace crackdowns with conversations. Today’s students need guidance, not restrictions, to make smart digital choices.”
Supporting over 1.5 million students
Save My Exams provides top-quality revision tools for GCSE, IGCSE, A Level and IB students. Their resources, built by experienced teachers, support over 1.5 million learners each month.