Finland to Introduce New Restrictions on Mobile Phone Use in Schools
The Finnish Parliament's Education and Culture Committee has expressed its support for the government’s proposal to restrict mobile phone use in primary and lower secondary schools. The proposed legislation was already approved by the Constitutional Law Committee last month.
If passed, the new law would prohibit students from using mobile phones during lessons as a general rule. However, exceptions would be permitted with the teacher’s explicit consent, particularly for educational purposes or health-related reasons.
Schools would be given the authority to set their own policies regarding mobile phone use during non-instructional times, such as breaks and lunch periods. These rules would need to be formally included in the school’s code of conduct.
In its statement, the Education Committee emphasised that limiting phone use in schools is essential for improving students' ability to concentrate and learn effectively. The committee also highlighted the need to strengthen the authority of teachers and school leaders in managing the use of digital devices on school premises.
Moreover, the committee recommended that the law explicitly state that mobile devices may still be used as educational tools when deemed appropriate.
The overarching aim of the reform is to foster a more focused learning environment, enhance educational outcomes, and provide schools with clearer frameworks for managing digital device use.
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