The Education Committee of the Russian State Duma has proposed moving forward with a second reading of a bill that would prohibit the use of phones during school lessons. This development was reported by TASS and marks a clear push toward tighter controls on classroom devices and the role of technology in daily learning. The proposal envisions a classroom environment where smartphones and tablets that include SIM cards are not to be used for any in-school activities, except in scenarios deemed life-threatening or otherwise critical to safety. The aim, as described, is to reduce distractions and to help focus student attention on instruction and learning outcomes.
Under the current outline of the bill, even devices that could ordinarily support educational activities would be barred from use during class time. The prohibition emphasizes that educational engagement should occur without the interruptions or temptations that mobile devices can sometimes introduce. The legislators suggest that any deviation from this rule would require explicit authorization from teachers, and only in approved cases or emergencies would students be allowed to operate their devices during lessons. The changes are presented as a means to standardize classroom practices and reinforce a consistent approach to handheld technology in schools.
On 17 November, the State Duma gave first reading to the bill, which would consolidate the ban on phone use in school classrooms into a formal directive. Early reports indicate that, if enacted, students would be permitted to use smartphones in the classroom only with teacher permission, and solely in urgent situations or life-threatening events. This reflects a balance between maintaining classroom order and allowing for necessary communication during emergencies or exceptional circumstances.
Officials noted that the bill, which would convert the phone ban into a legally binding regulation, is expected to undergo a targeted revision in the second reading. The preparation focuses on refining the language to ensure clarity in implementation and compliance across schools, while also addressing potential concerns about educational access and the practicalities of enforcing the prohibition in diverse learning environments. The process seems designed to provide a clear framework for schools, administrators, and teachers as they adapt to the proposed rules.
In related discussions, it was reported that the State Duma is considering bringing labor-related lessons back into the school curriculum. This context suggests an ongoing effort to align policy with broader educational goals, including practical skills and hands-on learning experiences. While the primary recent focus centers on device usage in classrooms, the broader policy environment appears to be evolving to address multiple dimensions of the school day and the curriculum, aiming to create a cohesive educational experience for students across different subjects and activities.