2024-05-13 05:05:50
In response to the recent measure taken by a group of 27 private schools in Bogotá, which decided to restrict the use of cell phones during the school day, the Colombian Ministry of Education has issued a statement expressing its position on the matter.
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The Education Ministry expressed its respect for the decision of these schools, in accordance with the autonomy that private education establishments have. In addition, he pointed out that this measure is based on the understanding that excessive use of screens can generate negative effects on the psychosocial development and learning of students.
The Vice Minister of Preschool, Basic and Secondary Education, Óscar Sánchez Jaramillo, emphasized the importance of regulating the use of technology in the educational field, recognizing that it can have both positive and negative effects depending on its management. Likewise, he mentioned that current regulations in Colombia suggest not providing a cell phone permanently to children under 14 years of age.
Regarding the possibility of extending this restriction to public schools, the vice minister highlighted the need to carry out spaces for dialogue and consultation with all actors involved in the educational community, including principals, teachers, students and parents. He stressed that it is essential that teachers have the freedom to establish specific standards adapted to the needs of each school.
Sánchez also highlighted the importance of the creative use of technology by teachers, citing examples of rural schools where cell phones are the only way to access internet connectivity and are used to develop innovative pedagogical practices.
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Finally, the vice minister mentioned that international schools that have decided to restrict cell phone use have other technological tools that compensate for this measure, while in the national context the particularity of each school must be evaluated to adopt the most appropriate measures for teaching. and student learning.