New Law Aims to Safeguard Minors in Digital Learning Environments
The Council of Ministers has approved a new law aimed at protecting minors in digital environments by regulating the use of computers and tablets in educational settings. This legislation, set to be processed in Congress, mandates that all educational institutions develop annual digital plans to ensure that these devices are used appropriately and effectively under the supervision of teachers throughout various stages of education, from early childhood to high school.
The regulation will link the use of digital devices to the age of students and their required digital competencies, as established in the Education Law LOMLOE. This comprehensive approach spans from early childhood education for children aged 0 to 3, up through compulsory secondary education (ESO) and high school, with emphasis on adaptable coexistence and digitalization plans that will be formulated by autonomous communities and educational centers.
Key aspects of the legislation ensure the promotion of digital literacy and training across all educational cycles. The use of digital tools in Early Childhood Education, Primary Education, Compulsory Secondary Education, Post-compulsory Secondary Education, and Special Education will be regulated based on guidelines set by educational administrations. This is to provide a safe and constructive framework for the incorporation of technology into the learning process.
The development of this bill included insights from 23 reports generated by both public and private organizations, as well as contributions from the European Commission. Félix Bolaños, the Minister of the Presidency, stated that the bill is rigorous and comprehensive due to its extensive consultation with various stakeholders, including the industry and gaming sectors.
Notably, the legislation emerged from a report commissioned by the Ministry of Youth and Childhood, which involved a committee of 50 independent experts. Their objective was to create a roadmap for fostering safe digital environments for children and adolescents.
Educational experts highlight a crucial distinction between personal devices owned by students and educational devices provided by institutions. In early childhood and primary education, personal devices will not be permitted. In secondary education, the use of personal devices will be limited and monitored, while institutional devices will be utilized as pedagogical tools. Recommendations within the bill include reassessing educational applications, eliminating systems that provide instant gratification, and establishing age-appropriate usage guidelines.
As discussions about the bill move into Congress, the implications of this legislation will be significant for educational institutions and the digital lives of students. The focus on ensuring a safe, structured, and beneficial use of technology in classrooms marks a step forward in addressing the challenges of digitalization in education.
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