Smartphones, Social Media, and the Weaponization of Technology in Schools

The digital world is a double-edged sword. On one hand, smartphones and social media connect us, educate us, and provide a voice to the voiceless. On the other, they bring a darker side, one that is increasingly impacting schools, teachers, and students.

At a recent conference, Manny Botwe, president of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL), raised concerns about how social media is being weaponized against schools. From students using it to cyberbully their peers to disgruntled parents targeting teachers, the problem is spiraling. His message? It’s time to bring social media platforms to heel.

The Troubling Reality - Social Media Weaponization Technology in Schools

A survey conducted by ASCL highlighted some concerning trends:

• 71% of teachers reported that students are using social media below the minimum age requirement.

• 43% of teachers said parents had made negative comments about school staff online.

• 46% of secondary school teachers revealed that students recorded teachers or classmates without permission.

• 30% of secondary school teachers noticed students accessing violent or pornographic content.

• 11% of secondary school teachers reported the use of deepfake imagery or audio to maliciously target staff or students.

• 73% of secondary school teachers stated that students had been bullied via social media.

  
  

These statistics paint a grim picture of how unregulated digital spaces are influencing school environments. What started as a way to stay connected has evolved into a tool for harassment, manipulation, and the spread of harmful content.

The Call for Accountability

Botwe didn’t mince words when addressing the role of social media companies. He pointed out that tech giants have been granted immense power with little oversight, often hiding behind the guise of free speech while profiting from platforms that allow harm to fester.

“Enough is enough,” he declared. “It’s time to bring these platforms to heel and force them to police their own spaces.”

While the UK government has introduced the Online Safety Act, Botwe and many others remain skeptical about its actual enforcement and effectiveness. Without strict regulations, social media will continue to be an unchecked force that fosters toxicity in schools.

Where Do We Go From Here?

The weaponization of social media technology isn’t just a school problem, it’s a societal one. Digital spaces have become battlegrounds for misinformation, harassment, and extremism. Schools are just another front where this war is playing out.

So, what’s the solution?

• Stronger regulation: Governments need to hold social media companies accountable for the content circulating on their platforms.

• Education & awareness: Schools should incorporate digital literacy programs to help students understand the implications of their online actions.

• Parental involvement: Parents must take an active role in monitoring their children's social media usage.

• Tech-driven solutions: AI and moderation tools need to be improved to detect and prevent harmful content before it spreads.

At Socialode, we believe in the power of technology to foster real connections, not harm. As the digital age continues to evolve, so must our approach to making online spaces safer and more responsible.