According to CCTV News, the Russian State Duma passed an amendment to the “Education Law”. The newly amended law stipulates that communication tools including smartphones should be banned in primary and secondary schools. The law will officially take effect on September 1, 2024. According to regulations, Russian primary and secondary schools only allow the use of mobile phones for teaching purposes and in emergencies. The bill does not specify where students should keep their phones, and schools will discuss these issues in detail with parents. In addition, the amendment to the Education Law also stipulates that labour courses will be returned to schools as a compulsory subject.
Russia banned the use of mobile phones in class in primary and secondary schools last year. Russia’s TASS News Agency reported on August 31, 2022, that Russia’s Minister of Basic Education Sergey Kravtsov stated that according to new health regulations, Russian primary and secondary school students are prohibited from using mobile phones in class starting from the new semester of that year.
When delivering a speech to parents of Russian students, Kravtsov said, “Regarding classroom issues, according to the new health regulations, the use of mobile phones in class will be prohibited from the new semester to prevent mobile phones from distracting students from listening to classes.”
A previous poll in Russia also showed that half of teachers support a complete ban on the use of mobile phones in schools. However, only 30% of parents of students agree with this idea.
Russia’s ban comes after New Zealand did the same
Not only Russia, some countries have previously announced that mobile phones are banned in primary and secondary schools. On December 1, local time, New Zealand’s new Prime Minister Christopher Lacson said that he would promote the ban on mobile phones in primary and secondary schools across the country within 100 days of taking office. He said he is doing this to eliminate the phenomenon of mobile phones interfering with classroom order and allow students to concentrate on class.
The ban is aimed at improving literacy rates and reducing disruptive behaviour in classrooms. The ban will apply to all mobile phones, including smartphones, and will be enforced during school hours. This move has received mixed reactions from the public. While some support the ban, others have concerns about the potential consequences.
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Reasons for the ban:
The primary reason for the ban on mobile phones in schools is to improve literacy rates and reduce disruptive behaviour in classrooms. According to a survey conducted by Horizon Research, 56% of respondents supported a ban on phones for the whole school day, while 16% of respondents said there should be no ban. Researchers from New Zealand charity Education Hub warned of a “literacy crisis” in 2022, finding more than one-third of 15-year-olds could barely read or write. The ban is aimed at addressing this issue by reducing distractions and helping students focus on their studies. In Russia, the reasons for the ban are just the same as those for New Zealand. The government wants students to concentrate more in school than being distracted by mobile phones.
How the ban will affect schools:
The ban on mobile phones in schools will have a significant impact on students, teachers, and parents. Students will no longer be able to use their phones during school hours. This may be challenging for some students who rely on their phones for communication and entertainment. Teachers will need to enforce the ban and ensure that students comply with the new rules. In doing so, the teachers will have to be very careful. They can not afford to break any other law while trying to enforce one. Parents may also need to make alternative arrangements for their children’s communication and safety during school hours.
Potential consequences:
The ban on mobile phones in schools may have both positive and negative consequences. On the positive side, it may help improve literacy rates and reduce disruptive behaviour in classrooms. It may also encourage students to engage more with their peers and teachers, leading to better social and academic outcomes. On the negative side, the ban may be difficult to enforce. This is because some students may find it challenging to adapt to the new rules. It may also lead to increased anxiety and stress among students who rely on their phones for communication and safety.
Final Words
In conclusion, the ban on mobile phones in primary and secondary schools in Russia is aimed at improving literacy rates. It also aims to reduce disruptive behaviour in classrooms. While the ban may have both positive and negative consequences, it is hoped that it will ultimately lead to better academic and social outcomes for students. While more teachers and of course the government seem to favour the ban, it is not very popular among parents. What do you think about the recent ban on the use of mobile phones by primary and secondary school students in Russia? Let us know your thoughts and opinions in the comment section below
Author Bio
Efe Udin is a seasoned tech writer with over seven years of experience. He covers a wide range of topics in the tech industry from industry politics to mobile phone performance. From mobile phones to tablets, Efe has also kept a keen eye on the latest advancements and trends. He provides insightful analysis and reviews to inform and educate readers. Efe is very passionate about tech and covers interesting stories as well as offers solutions where possible.
