What's happened
Chile will implement a law banning smartphone use during school hours starting in 2026, aligning with similar restrictions in countries like France and China. The legislation aims to improve student concentration and mental health, following years of lobbying by parents and teachers. The bill awaits presidential approval.
What's behind the headline?
The legislation signals a significant shift in educational policy, emphasizing the importance of face-to-face interaction and mental health. The law's broad support suggests a recognition of smartphones as a distraction and potential harm. However, it also raises questions about enforcement and the balance between technology and learning. Countries like the UK have shown that effective bans can improve exam results and school ratings, indicating Chile's law could yield similar benefits. Yet, the law's success depends on implementation and cultural acceptance. This move may also influence other nations to reconsider their digital device policies, especially amid rising concerns about youth mental health. Overall, Chile's law will likely accelerate the global push to regulate smartphone use in educational settings, with potential long-term impacts on student well-being and academic achievement.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that Chile's new law aligns with international efforts to curb smartphone distractions, citing studies from the OECD and UK research indicating improved academic performance with bans. AP News highlights the legislative process and the broad political support, emphasizing the cultural shift towards face-to-face socialization. The articles collectively underscore the global trend and the potential benefits of reduced device use, while also noting the challenges of enforcement and cultural adaptation.
How we got here
Chile's move follows international concerns about digital device impacts on student learning and emotional development. A pilot program in Santiago successfully blocked cellphone signals, and studies show device disruptions impair academic performance. The legislation reflects a broader global trend to limit smartphone use in schools.
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Gabriel Borić Font is a Chilean politician and former student leader who has been a member of the Chamber of Deputies since 11 March 2014, representing the Magallanes and Chilean Antarctica Region.
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Chile, officially the Republic of Chile, is a country in western South America. It occupies a long, narrow strip of land between the Andes to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west.