In an unprecedented measure, 27 schools in Bogotá have decided to prohibit the use of cell phones and other technological devices during the school day. The determination comes after a study that revealed the negative impact of these devices on students’ academic performance.
The Association of International Schools of the country’s capital (Unicoli) announced this measure through a statement, in which it highlighted the “disconnect to connect” campaign. This group, made up of private educational institutions in the city, considers that the use of technological devices during school days is negatively affecting students.
The statement signed by the school principals points out that “the available research is conclusive and shows that the presence of these devices during the school day has adverse effects on mental health, contributes to the development of addictive behaviors, and reduces the quality of education.” social interactions, interest in physical activity decreases, bullying and cyberbullying increase, in addition to generating a significant decrease in academic performance.
Each educational institution will have the freedom to apply the decision under the rules that are appropriate to its context and particular needs, as clarified in the letter. However, there is a clear consensus among all of them about the negative impact of mobile devices on the educational environment and on the well-being of students.
The educational institutions that are part of the International Union of Schools of Bogotá and that signed the letter include recognized institutions such as Colegio Anglo Colombiano, Colegio San Bartolomé, Colegio Nueva Granada, among others.
This measure seeks to promote a school environment more conducive to learning and concentration, while encouraging direct social interactions and preventing problematic use of technology among students.
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