BBC's education editor, former children's commissioner, and a headteacher discuss new guidance for schools to stop mobile phone use. Also, the potential use of citizens' assemblies to address sensitive issues in democracy. The podcast explores the impact of technology in learning, the role of education in the general election, and the power of citizens' assemblies in democracy.
New guidance in England advises schools on mobile phone use to promote consistency and improve behavior among students.
Labour considers implementing citizens' assemblies to involve citizens in policymaking and enhance democratic decision-making.
Deep dives
Government Issues Guidance on Mobile Phones in Schools
The Education Secretary in England, Gillian Keegan, has issued guidance for headteachers regarding the use of mobile phones in schools. The guidance encourages schools to adopt a consistent approach to mobile phone usage, with some schools enforcing an outright ban, while others allow limited use during breaks. Headteachers have expressed support for the guidance, stating that it empowers them to have conversations with parents and children, promotes consistency, and improves behavior and social interaction among students. Critics question the significance of the guidance, as many schools already have their own policies on mobile phone usage.
Citizens' Assemblies as a Possible Democratic Innovation
Citizens' assemblies are being considered as a potential innovation in British democracy, with the Labour Party expressing interest in their use. Citizens' assemblies have gained attention through their successful implementation in Ireland, where they have contributed to resolving contentious issues like same-sex marriage and legalizing abortion. These assemblies involve randomly selected citizens coming together to discuss complex issues and make collective decisions. The aim is to foster thoughtful debate, compromise, and independent judgment, unlike traditional polling methods. Proponents argue that citizens' assemblies can enhance democratic decision-making and engage citizens in the policymaking process, but critics question their practicality and potential impact on the existing political system.
Labour Party's Potential Embrace of Citizens' Assemblies
The Labour Party has expressed interest in incorporating citizens' assemblies as part of their governance and decision-making processes. While specific details and plans are yet to be outlined, Labour sees citizens' assemblies as a means to involve citizens in important policy decisions and establish a closer partnership between the public and elected representatives. Proponents assert that citizens' assemblies could help overcome complex challenges and result in more considered and balanced decision-making. However, critics argue that citizens' assemblies may disrupt the traditional party policy model and question the extent to which assembly recommendations would sway strongly opposing views.
Citizens' Assemblies as a Means to Solve Contentious Issues
Citizens' assemblies have shown promise in resolving contentious issues, such as the case of Ireland's citizens' assembly. By bringing together a diverse group of citizens, including those who hold contrasting views, citizens' assemblies provide a platform for open dialogue, evidence-based presentations, and comprehensive deliberation. This inclusive approach seeks to foster compromises and informed decision-making. The success of citizens' assemblies relies on ensuring transparent processes that build trust and accountability. While not a universal solution, citizens' assemblies can serve as a valuable tool for democratic participation and navigating complex sociopolitical issues that require compromises and trade-offs.
Today, we look at new guidance given to schools on mobile phones + whether citizens’ assemblies could help solve some of the big issues in our democracy.
The government has announced new advice for schools in England to try to stop mobile phone use. To explain what difference it will make, Adam is joined in the studio by the BBC’s education editor, Branwen Jeffreys, former children’s commissioner, Anne Longfield and headteacher Becky Arnold.
And Labour could implement citizens’ assemblies to propose new laws if they win the election. Shadow health secretary Wes Streeting has suggested they may be used to tackle sensitive issues like assisted dying. Adam is joined in the studio by the CEO of Demos, Polly Curtis.
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Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Sam McLaren and Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Johnny Baker. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.
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