How To Set Consistent Device and Social Media Rules at School — and at Home
As social media use surges among youth, educators are grappling with the need to manage device disturbances — while acknowledging that technology use is embedded in education. Although educators embrace digital tools to help surface diverse viewpoints, boost engagement and save time, clear guidelines are necessary to keep students on task during the school day and promote digital responsibility.
As schools and districts aim to set consistent rules for device and social media usage, they should embrace a balanced approach that fosters a safe, supportive learning environment while minimizing distractions and risky behavior. Here are five guidelines to consider.
1. Educate students on digital citizenship best practices.
Districts can help students be discerning media consumers through curriculum that aligns with the district’s core values and code of conduct. The curriculum should cover topics like online safety and privacy and help students learn to evaluate online content critically. It should also emphasize behaviors that will never be tolerated, such as using devices to cheat, cyberbully or access inappropriate content.
It’s also important to consider data privacy and security when deciding which networks students can tap into on their devices. Explain which sites or activities you will be blocking on your computers or networks and why.
2. Tailor policies for different situations
Avoid a one-size-fits-all approach as you create policies for device use. First, make sure the protocols are age-appropriate, then align them with educational objectives. Your guidelines should allow flexibility so they can be tailored to different situations and subjects, underscoring the fact that device usage can be beneficial for some classroom activities.
3. Clearly communicate policies and consequences.
Be transparent with students and caregivers about expectations around device use. Consider all types of situations, including during class time, breaks, passing periods, extracurricular events, before- and after-school activities, and on buses. Encourage open discussion about why these rules are essential and invite dialogue from the school community. Some schools have device use contracts for students and families to sign, acknowledging they’ll follow the school’s policies.
Students should understand why it’s important to follow guidelines, with an emphasis on the “why.” Explain how excessive device usage can hurt their learning and how minimizing distractions can lead to better academic performance.
4. Revisit policies as appropriate.
Recognize that technology and social media are constantly evolving, so guidelines must be flexible enough to adapt to new platforms and challenges. By regularly reviewing policies, you can guarantee they remain relevant and effective.
5. Collaborate with parents and caregivers.
Consistent rules at home and school will help reinforce policies and bolster students’ mental well-being. Communication is essential to getting the entire community on the same page. Explain why it’s vital to limit screen time and encourage them to adopt their own common-sense device practices at home. The good news is that families rely on schools for advice or information about screen time, with one study finding that 45% of parents of young children had turned to teachers for insights.
Best practices to suggest to caregivers include:
- Establishing tech-free zones and times at home, such as during homework time, family time and bedtime.
- Developing age-appropriate guidelines for social media interaction, including limiting access to certain platforms.
- Exploring the apps and platforms their children access to gain a first-hand understanding of what their children might encounter.
- Staying up to date on research and best practices around kids and social media.
- Establishing a family media plan to set practical ground rules, such as this one from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
A dual approach to digital responsibility
Schools and districts need to be one step ahead of their students as the digital world evolves. The goal of a consistent device and social media policy is to balance access with responsible use, while equipping students with technical skills and honing their judgment as they leverage technology to enhance learning and life.
Want more ideas for how to start conversations with families about devices and social media? Download our new playbook, “How To Talk With Caregivers About Kids and Social Media,” and visit our Mental Health Resource Center.