What was the goal?
The project aimed to develop an effective strategy for managing smartphone use in the classroom. The main focus was to explore whether involving students in setting the rules could improve acceptance and compliance. In addition, this approach sought to foster a positive classroom climate, support the flow of teaching, and strengthen students’ sense of responsibility.
How did the project proceed?
To achieve this goal, a research-based approach was chosen. First, an extensive literature review was conducted, focusing on youth media use, participatory approaches in education, and the integration of smartphones into teaching.
Next, empirical data were collected through surveys among students from different grades (5th, 8th, and 10th) and teachers at a secondary school. The surveys aimed to capture opinions about smartphone use, acceptance of jointly developed rules, and possible solutions to challenges associated with smartphone use.
The results showed that a large majority of students favored participatory rule-making, as it increased acceptance and motivation.
What were the results?
The analysis revealed that involving students in creating classroom rules indeed led to higher acceptance and adherence. This not only strengthened students’ sense of responsibility but also contributed to a more positive classroom atmosphere.
Students particularly emphasized the importance of being allowed to use smartphones in a controlled manner — for example, for completing assignments or in emergencies. At the same time, they were aware of the potential downsides, such as distraction and loss of concentration.
Teachers acknowledged the educational potential of smartphones but stressed the importance of clear rules to minimize distractions.
Summary
The project concludes that actively involving students in developing classroom rules fosters responsibility and improves compliance. Teachers should provide an overarching framework while allowing students sufficient flexibility to formulate their own rules.
This approach enables the constructive integration of smartphones into the classroom — positively influencing both the learning process and the overall classroom climate.