Stop students from using social media during class

Social media can be a significant distraction, hindering student focus and productivity. You can create rules in Classwize to block access to social media platforms during class and make exceptions when necessary.

Before you begin

• You must have access to Rules in Classwize.
• Check with your school's IT Support if:
  • Existing restrictions exist:
    Look for the Locked rule error to determine if the Social Networking or Social Media and Communication category is already locked.
  • Review Blocked or Allowed content:
    Refer to the types of content you can block or allow to understand the current settings.

Block Social Networking

Classwize compiles social media and networking into the Social Networking Category. By blocking this category, you can prevent students from accessing social media during class.

Video 1: Block the social networking category

1. Sign in to Classwize, open your class and go to Rules > New Rule.
   If this is your first rule, select Create Rule.
2. In the This rule controls field, search and select Social Networking.
3. Ensure Blocked is selected by default.
4. In the This rule applies to field, you can either:
   • Select the Whole class checkbox to block the Social Networking category for the entire class.
   • Search and select the student’s name to block the category for a specific student. Repeat this step to block the category for more students.
5. Select Add Rule.

Block Social Networking but allow a specific Social Media Platform

You may want to block all social networking except for a specific social media platform like X (formally Twitter).

Video 2: Allow a specific social media platform

1. Sign in to Classwize, open your class and go to Rules > New Rule.
   If this is your first rule, select Create Rule.
2. In the This rule controls field, search and select the specific social media platform.
3. Ensure Allowed is selected.
4. In the This rule applies to field, you can either:
   
   • Select the Whole class checkbox to allow the social media platform signature for the entire class.
   • Search and select the student’s name to allow the social media platform for a specific student. Repeat this step to allow the social media platform for more students.
5. Select New Rule.
6. In the This rule controls field, search and select Social Networking.
7. Ensure Blocked is selected by default.
8. In the This rule applies to field, you can either:
   
   • Select the Whole class checkbox.
   • Search and select the student’s name to block the category for a specific student. Repeat this step to block the category for more students.
9. Select Add Rule.