Research Finds Widespread Support for Tightening Cell Phone Regulations in Educational Institutions
A new study by the Federal Institute for Population Research (BiB) has revealed that a significant majority of adults in Germany are in favour of stricter rules regarding the use of private mobile phones in schools. The survey, conducted on 1,312 Germans aged 18 and over nationwide in January and February 2025, sheds light on the ongoing debate about mobile phone usage in educational institutions.
The study found that 53% of adults support a general, comprehensive ban on mobile phones for all students at all schools. This support is particularly strong at primary schools, with 80% of respondents backing such a ban. Furthermore, 95% of adults expressed their support for these stricter rules at primary schools.
The survey also revealed that a majority of respondents believe that schools should promote responsible internet use and meaningful mobile phone use in lessons, regardless of private smartphone use. This suggests a desire for a balanced approach that encourages the educational benefits of technology while managing its potential risks.
Interestingly, those informed about the risks of digital media use for children and young people support a higher minimum age for owning and using smartphones and social media. On average, they favour a minimum age of 11.5 years for owning a smartphone and 13.5 years for using social media like Instagram and TikTok independently.
The debate on how to regulate the use of private mobile phones in schools is ongoing in Germany, with the federal states taking different approaches. Recently, Hesse introduced a mobile phone ban with exceptions at the start of the new school year.
The study by BiB found that 72% of adults surveyed support stricter rules against private smartphone use in schools without explicit lesson integration. This indicates a widespread concern about the distractions and potential negative impacts of unregulated mobile phone use in educational settings.
In conclusion, the study suggests that a significant majority of adults in Germany are in favour of stricter regulations regarding mobile phone use in schools, particularly at primary levels. This supports the ongoing efforts to create a safer and more focused learning environment for children and young people in Germany.
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