DepEd reminds schools to impose gadget use ban during class hours

DepEd memorandum reiterating policies on the safe and responsible use of the internet and related devices (Photo from DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara / Facebook)

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) on Wednesday reminded schools to strictly enforce its policy banning students and school personnel from using gadgets during class hours, except for educational purposes and emergencies.

In a memorandum dated June 30 and made public July 1, DepEd reiterated the implementation of its existing policy under the Guidelines on Ensuring a Safe and Motivating Learning Environment.

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“Pursuant to the Department of Education’s (DepEd) commitment to promote and uphold the welfare, safety, security, and protection of all learners and personnel, this Office reiterates the strict implementation of and compliance with existing policies and guidelines concerning the promotion of safe and responsible use of the internet and related devices,” it read.

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It emphasized the prohibition of the use of portable electronic devices during class hours among learners and school personnel.

The memorandum also specified that the ban covers activities such as using social media, playing online games, creating content, and vlogging.

Exceptions

Under the guidelines, the use of gadgets may be allowed only for accessing online learning platforms and other educational activities.

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Emergency situations where communication is necessary are also an exception from the ban.

On Wednesday, Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian likewise reiterated his call to prohibit the use of smartphones and other electronic devices in both public and private schools with the same exceptions mentioned by DepEd.

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His renewed call came following several school safety concerns.

The senator cited a recent shooting threat at a public school in Batangas and an alleged foiled school attack in Laguna in February involving students reportedly recruited through the online game Roblox.

In a statement, Gatchalian said aside from ensuring students’ safety, the ban will also help students focus on their studies while also lessening distractions brought about by gadget use. /gsg

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