Mobile phones in education: what the new law says

Mobile phones in education: an introduction

Using mobile phones in the classroom can transform special education and inclusive education. Used the right way, smartphones have real potential to help learning. Here are some ways to make the most of this technology:

• Educational applications: There are many programs that teach in a fun, interactive way.
• Group work: Students can collaborate on projects using the tools on the phone.
• Responsible learning: It matters to teach students about conscious and respectful use of technology.

Bringing these resources together lets us create a more pleasant and productive environment, favoring the inclusion of every student in the learning process.

The new law on phones in schools

Brazil's recent law 15.100/2025 brought changes that affect the use of mobile phones in schools. With the goal of making classes more productive, this legislation bans the use of devices during class, but there are some exceptions. For example, when the use is for special pedagogical activities or when students have specific requirements, phones can be used. This move aims to create an environment where students feel freer to interact and learn. Excessive use of technology can create distraction, making concentration and social life harder. With the new law, the expectation is that problems such as cyberbullying and teacher demotivation will decrease. Schools have an important part to play in this adjustment. Here are some suggestions to make the change smoother:

• Updating the rules: Schools should review their guidelines to comply with the new law.
• Teaching students: It is essential to teach students about the effect of excessive use of the phone and the internet.
• Creating spaces for interaction: Offer places where students can connect in person, without being distracted by devices.

With these changes, we can promote inclusive special education where everyone has the chance to develop in a healthy way.

How technology affects learning

Technology is present in practically every aspect of our lives, and education is no exception. On one hand, phones and other digital tools can be a great source of distraction; on the other, they also offer remarkable opportunities to enrich learning. Let us talk about that simply and directly. Many students find themselves distracted by social media and games when they should be focused on class. That can affect their performance and even their motivation. What usually happens is that, spending more time on the screen, they end up drifting away from personal interaction, which matters so much for learning. Used the right way, though, electronic devices can be allies in learning. They are especially useful in inclusive special education, where each student may need a different method. Digital tools, such as educational programs, can offer individual support, helping each one learn at their own pace. To get the most out of technology and keep distraction to a minimum, here are some practical tips:

• Set limits: Define specific times for using phones, especially during class.
• Use interactive resources: Encourage active learning, with games and quizzes that engage students.
• Foster live interaction: Create moments where students can disconnect and interact with one another.

With this care, it is possible to turn technology into a powerful ally in learning, creating a richer and more inclusive experience for every student.

The role of inclusive special education

Inclusive special education matters a great deal in guaranteeing that every child, whatever their difficulties, can learn and develop. It is fundamental that schools create an environment where each student feels welcome and respected. That means adapting not only the content but also the teaching approaches, so that each child finds their place and can shine. One of the tools that helps with this is the Individualized Education Plan (PEI, in Brazil). With this plan, teachers can better understand what each student needs and create specific strategies. This personalization is essential so that every student can meet their learning goals in their own time and in their own way. Here are some actions that can be taken to promote inclusion in the classroom:

• Curriculum adaptation: Adjust content and teaching materials to serve what different students need.
• Use of technology: Bring in programs and online tools that make learning easier and lessons more interactive.
• Varied activities: Offer different kinds of activity, such as games or group work, to reach every student according to their abilities.
• Teacher training: Make sure educators receive continuing training on inclusive practice and on handling diversity in the classroom.

When schools take care to apply these actions, every student has the chance to feel valued and motivated to learn. Inclusion benefits not only students who face difficulties, it enriches the experience for everyone, creating a more collaborative and harmonious environment.

Strategies for putting the new law in place

Putting a new law about phone use in schools into practice takes planning and care. The change can raise questions, but with a few simple strategies it is possible to make the adjustment calmer. Here are some suggestions that can help along the way:

• Open dialogue: Talk with parents, students and teachers. Meetings help clear up doubts and hear suggestions. Everyone has something to contribute.
• Training for educators: Offer training sessions. Teaching staff how to work with the new rules brings confidence and clarity to everyday school life.
• Code of conduct: Write a document with the rules for phone use. That helps define what is expected of students and educators, creating a more organized environment.
• Practical activities: Plan lessons that use technology responsibly. That can show students how phones can be allies in learning.
• Continuous follow-up: After the change, keep channels open so everyone can share their experience, opinions and suggestions for improvement.

With these tips, we can transform the school environment, following the new law and promoting inclusive special education. The goal is to create a productive and respectful space for everyone.

International examples and lessons learned

When we talk about education, it is important to remember that each student has their own way of learning. Inclusive special education is a way of guaranteeing that everyone has the same opportunities, whatever their abilities. And we can learn a lot from other countries' experience. In France, for example, schools decided to ban phone use, and that made a big difference. Students concentrated more in class and started socializing better. Have you stopped to think how positive that can be? Removing the distraction brings young people back to talking and interacting with one another more effectively. In Spain, the approach was different. Instead of banning phones outright, schools created rules for their use. Students learned to use technology consciously and responsibly. That attitude helped them develop skills that matter for the future. Here are some lessons we can apply in Brazil:

• Open dialogue: It is fundamental to listen to students and teachers about the use of technology in the classroom.
• New methods: Why not use technology as an ally in teaching, when it is used responsibly?
• Mental health first: Focusing on student wellbeing makes for a healthier environment.

Why schools and families working together matters

When we talk about inclusive special education, it is fundamental to understand that collaboration between schools and families is essential. When everyone pulls together, students feel more supported and more motivated to learn. Here are some important points about that partnership:

• Open communication: Keeping a constant dialogue between teachers and parents makes sure everyone knows how the student is doing. For example, if a student is struggling with maths, parents can help with exercises at home.
• Teamwork: When schools and families work together, they can create a healthier environment for the student. For example, parents can practice techniques suggested by teachers, reinforcing learning at home.
• Access to resources: Together, parents and educators can identify which supports the student needs, whether teaching materials or services such as therapy. Doing that collaboratively raises the chances of success.

Think about how this partnership can benefit both the student and the family. Investing time and effort in that collaboration makes all the difference to school progress. Technology, such as the Vínculoo® platform, can help bring the two sides together, letting everyone share information and work for student wellbeing. That is how we build a better future for all.

Closing thoughts on conscious phone use

Technology, and phones in particular, can be a great ally in special education and inclusive education. They do have to be used with care, though. Here are some tips to get the best out of these devices:

• Clear limits: Define when phones can be used, such as during class, to avoid distraction.
• Educational tools: Use programs that support learning and help with inclusion, such as educational games.
• Group activities: Run activities that encourage interaction between students, without devices.

With these practices, you can create a more productive and enjoyable learning environment for everyone.