Netherlands to ban phone in schools to halt disruption

The Dutch government has announced a new initiative to ban devices such as mobile phones from classrooms in order to prevent disruptions to learning.

This collaborative effort with schools is set to be implemented at the beginning of the upcoming year. While there will be exceptions for students with medical requirements or disabilities, as well as for classes specifically focused on digital skills, the general aim is to restrict the presence of devices during regular classroom activities.

Although the ban does not currently carry legal enforcement, there is a possibility that it may become legally binding in the future.

“Even though mobile phones are almost intertwined with our lives, they do not belong in the classroom,” said Education Minister Robbert Dijkgraaf.

“Students must be able to concentrate there and be given every opportunity to learn well. We know from scientific research that mobile phones disrupt this.”

Multiple studies have demonstrated a correlation between limiting children’s screen time and improvements in cognition and concentration. To further support this notion, the Dutch government has announced a ban on various tech devices, including mobile phones, tablets, and smartwatches, in classrooms.

Under this new policy, individual schools will have the flexibility to establish specific rules in consultation with teachers, parents, and students. While some schools may choose to completely prohibit devices on their premises, others may adopt different approaches.

The ban is the result of a collaborative effort between the ministry, educational institutions, and related organizations. Its effectiveness will be assessed at the end of the 2024/2025 school year to determine whether a legal ban should be implemented.

This decision by the Dutch government follows a similar move by Finland, where the law will be amended to facilitate the restriction of phone usage in schools. Other countries, including England and France, have also proposed banning mobile phones in educational settings to enhance the learning environment.