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world20h ago
Chile to ban smartphones in classrooms – DW – 12/03/2025
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- A nationwide bill in Chile bans the use of cell phones and personal mobile devices in classrooms for all levels, with exceptions for emergencies and specific educational needs, taking effect with the 2026 school year.
- The law explicitly forbids cellphone use during curricular activities nationwide, allowing limited adaptations for health needs or emergencies.
- Education Minister Nicolas Cataldo frames the policy as a cultural shift to help students reconnect and concentrate, underscoring a broader goal of improving classroom learning.
- Conservative lawmakers argue the ban will curb distractions and support learning, viewing mobile use as harmful to the educational process.
- OECD-linked data cited by supporters show many Chilean students say digital devices disrupt learning, reinforcing the ban's rationale.
- Global context is invoked: UNESCO data indicate about 40% of schools worldwide had banned smartphone use by 2024, signaling alignment with a broader trend.
- The bill is the product of years of lobbying by Chilean parents and teachers who argued smartphones impair learning and emotional development.
- A Santiago school piloted the measure as part of wellness and reintegration efforts, signaling practical groundwork for nationwide adoption.
- PISA results show Chile leads in Latin America but still trails OECD averages; concerns persist about post-disruption distraction.
- President Boric is positioned to grant final approval, signaling executive backing for reducing classroom distractions through device bans.
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