School Parents Favor Banning Cell Phones on Campus
In the ongoing debate about the role of technology in education, a generational divide among parents in Germany is emerging, according to broader societal context and expert analysis.
While younger parents, who have grown up with smartphones, tend to view these devices as essential tools for learning and communication, favouring moderated use over outright bans, older parents lean towards stricter measures to minimise distractions and potential mental health risks.
Recent studies, such as the "Digital Study 2025," highlight the extensive use of smartphones and the internet among Germans. However, empirical evidence specific to the opinions of parents in Germany about mobile phone bans in schools remains scarce.
In June, the state parliament of Saarland took a decisive step by banning the use of private smartphones and smartwatches in the first four grades of primary and special schools. Yet, the German Teachers' Association, in contrast, advocates for clear rules regarding mobile phone use rather than an outright ban.
Thomas Brosch, head of digital sales at Postbank, expressed concern about the academic success of children due to a lack of concentration, voicing support for clear rules and protected spaces. A survey conducted by Postbank found that 49% of parents with children believe smartphones disrupt lessons and concentration.
The German Teachers' Association, led by Stefan Düll, supports a critical and reflective use of mobile phones in schools, guiding young people towards considered use. Düll also finds the idea of secret use of mobile phones attractive if a ban is implemented.
Notably, the demand for a mobile phone ban in schools is not a generational issue, according to the Postbank study, with around 80% of parents supporting a ban. However, 32% of parents also support a ban but think there should be exceptions for certain situations.
Düll emphasises the importance of digital media being specifically guided in schools to help children and young people develop appropriate and responsible use skills. Schools in North Rhine-Westphalia are expected to establish age-appropriate rules for mobile phone use by autumn, while schools in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern are to regulate this themselves.
Despite the debate, the German Teachers' Association does not advocate for a ban on digital media use in schools but rather clear rules and guidance. The association's stance reflects the ongoing discussion about balancing technology use with education quality and student well-being, a debate that resonates not just in Germany, but globally.
During their free time, many parents in Germany are using technology to educate and self-develop, with younger parents favoring moderate use of smartphones and older parents advocating stricter measures. Concurrently, these parents are also expressing concerns about the impact of technology on children's academic success and mental health within a school setting, leading to varying opinions on mobile phone bans and regulations in schools.
