Smartphones blamed for rise in disruptive primary pupils

THE rising use of mobile phones and tablets has been blamed for soaring levels of ‘disruptive’ behaviour in primary classrooms.

Teachers and classroom assistants have revealed an increase in ‘low-level disruptive behaviour’ as well as ‘verbal abuse, physical aggression and physical violence’ in schools in the past four years.

The Behaviour in Scottish Schools Research 2016 report was published yesterday, with teachers claiming ‘societal changes’, including an increase in the use of technology by youngsters, was leading to a rise in behaviour problems in class.

It reported there had been little change in the behaviour of high school pupils but revealed soaring levels of disruptive behaviour in primary schools.

The report says ‘the biggest change relates to low-level disruptive behaviour in the primary classroom’, with an increase in instances of pupils hindering others, avoiding work and ‘making unnecessary noise’.

More than 80 per cent of teachers and support staff in primary schools said they experienced disruptive behaviour – which could also include talking out of turn, making remarks and calling out – at least once a day. According to the report, teachers suggested that the use of digital technology in class such as mobile phones and tablets were contributing to

‘Restrict mobile phone usage’

disruptive behaviour, as well as other societal changes and ‘perceived approaches to parenting’.

Scottish Conservative early years spokesman Michelle Bal- lantyne has called on the Scottish Government to allow teachers to introduce a ban or restrict the use of mobiles in schools.

Yesterday she said: ‘It’s clear that teachers believe mobile phones are disrupting lessons.

‘While technology is a part of modern life, evidence suggests that excessive smartphone use in schools can reduce educational attainment.

‘That’s why we need to allow head teachers the ability to ban or restrict mobile phone usage if they believe it is necessary.’

The report also revealed that support staff in primary schools had been forced to report increased levels of ‘general verbal abuse, physical aggression and physical violence towards them personally’.

The Scottish Government said: ‘The appropriate and effective use of digital technology can enhance learning and teaching across Curriculum for Excellence.

‘We would therefore encourage all schools to think carefully about how they can best utilise digital technology to enhance education while also educating learners about the appropriate use of digital technologies, including personal digital devices.’