Speak Up data cited in "Are Cell Phone Bans Worth the Trouble?"

Data from Speak Up 2010 and 2013 was recently cited in The Journal's article, "Are Cell Phone Bans Worth the Trouble?" Check out the Speak Up data from the article:

According to a 2013 Project Tomorrow survey, 32 percent of districts had policies prohibiting the use of personal mobile devices by students. That same survey, though, showed that attitudes were shifting. In 2010, 25 percent of principals said they were likely to allow or already allowed students to use personal mobile devices in school; in 2013 the number was 51 percent.

One year ago, Garland Independent School District banned cell phones and implemented a fine that students would have to pay in order to get their cell phones back. Given that in the span of two years the percent of schools that allowed mobile devices rose from 32% to 51%, Garland joined the 51% and started allowing mobile devices in schools. However, this decision did not come easily - the district had to answer the questions: "Would it adapt or continue to fight a losing battle?" and, "If you're ready to lift the ban on student devices on your campus, how do you do it and what will the consequences be?"

To learn how Garland Independent School District and other school districts answered these questions, check out The Journal's article, "Are Cell Phone Bans Worth the Trouble?" You can also view past Speak Up data on our website.

Don't forget to participate in Speak Up 2014!  Speak Up provides an easy way for students, parents and educators to participate in local decisions about technology, as well as contribute to the state and national dialogue about educational technology. Data from the surveys - including data regarding online classes - will be released in February 2015. Click here to register for Speak Up 2014, and be sure to take the survey before it closes on December 19th, 2014!

Furthermore, Project Tomorrow's 5th Annual Youth Leadership Summit is THIS Saturday! All students in Orange County, CA are invited to attend the summit and learn about different careers in STEM. This free half-day event includes a student presentation, panel discussions from industry leaders and a diverse group of engineers, tabletop exhibits to introduce students to local opportunities and college programs, and breakout sessions led by business and education leaders throughout the region. Opportunities like these are just what students need to get exposure to these types of careers! Click here to learn more about the Youth Leadership Summit.