The regional regulation of the use of mobile and electronic devices in the school environment

Abstract

The purpose of this work is to study the regulation that the Spanish Autonomous Communities have made regarding the use of mobile phones and other electronic devices in schools. Digitalization is an important factor of the modern education system. This digitalization has provided obvious advantages in the training of students, but it has also been the cause of serious difficulties. There are problems that affect their academic performance, their socialization, the maintenance of discipline in the classrooms and the presence of cyberbullying, and even their health. The Autonomous Communities have deemed it necessary to limit the freedom to use mobile phones and other electronic devices in the school environment. Regional law has developed the state legal provisions, regulating the spaces, moments and educational stages to which the prohibition extends. Exceptions are also provided in which the use of these personal devices is tolerated for justified reasons. The regional regulations provide for corrective measures, especially the possibility of removing the mobile phone or device from a student who does not comply with the rules of use. Finally, the question arises as to what response the legislator should give to achieve rational use of electronic devices in schools. The regulations of the Autonomous Communities seem to be committed to promoting the education, training and advice of all members of the educational community. Therefore, it is about raising awareness among students, teachers and families of the need to have an active role in this field.