Plans to restrict the usage of phones in schools took a step forward on Monday when the Finnish government approved a change to the Basic Education Act, that would restrict mobile device use during lessons.
Under the new draft law, phones would only be allowed in primary and secondary school classes with special permission from the teacher, such as for educational purposes or health-related reasons. As a general rule, the use of phones during lessons will be prohibited.
Schools would have the freedom to decide on the use and storage of mobile devices during other parts of the school day, such as breaks and during lunch. These policies would need to be included in the school's code of conduct.
The law would also allow schools to ban phones for the entire school day. Education Minister Anders Adlercreutz said he hopes that schools will take advantage of this opportunity.
Principals or teachers would have the authority to confiscate phones if their use disrupts teaching or learning.
The phone ban aims to improve students' ability to focus and learn. According to international studies, limiting phone use especially benefits students who struggle academically, Adlercreutz said.
Listen to an episode of the All Points North podcast that explored the challenge of getting rid of phones in classrooms via this embedded player or wherever you get your podcasts.
Adlercreutz has emphasised that children’s digital skills will still be supported despite the phone restrictions.
The phone ban still requires approval from Parliament, but it is likely to pass as both government and opposition parties have agreed on the law's necessity.
The reform is expected to take effect on August 1, 2025.
