USE OF MOBILE PHONES AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE: IN SEARCH OF MULTIPLE-LEVEL REGULATION

Abstract

The present paper analyzes the use of mobile devices among young people, to determine their need for regulation in the schools. A questionnaire was designed, which received 2,076 valid responses from young people aged between 12 and 18, in Spain. The multivariate analysis-using segmentation trees according to the Chi-Square Automatic Interaction Detection (CHAD) method – showed, with gender differences, a predominance of cell phone use, assuming its usefulness for learning, despite recognizing that more time is aimed at its social use than is recommended. In addition, it was revealed that there are no limitations on its use in schools. These results lead us to reflect on the advisability of regulatory strategies at various levels to ensure responsible use in educational environments.