Smartphone ban at schools: Garching tests the cell phone hotel!

Smartphone ban at schools: Garching tests the cell phone hotel!

The debate about dealing with smartphones in schools also picks up speed in the district of Munich. More and more schools are faced with the challenge of finding a meaningful use of the ubiquitous technology. Smartphones are indispensable for children and adolescents these days, but the risk of distraction should not be underestimated. Therefore, some educational institutions consider whether they should integrate the devices into the lessons or to completely banish their use. A clear trend towards exile can be observed in Austria, with different approaches being pursued in the Munich district. At the Werner-Heisenberg-Gymnasium in Garching, for example, a “cell phone hotel” was introduced, where students can safely store their smartphones while learning. Annette Langl, an employee of the school management, describes the advantages of this system that prevents access to cell phones during class. The South German reports .

What is the situation throughout Germany? A current study shows that young people in Germany spend more than 36 hours a week on the smartphone and are online over five hours a day. The notifications become even more interesting: 50 percent of 11 to 17 year olds receive at least 237 notifications every day for their smartphones, 23 percent of whom are received during school. This immense distraction could be the reason why schools are increasingly thinking about a ban on private cell phone use. Mobile phone bans have already established themselves in countries such as Finland, Denmark, England and the Netherlands. In Germany, too, this step becomes increasingly relevant, especially with regard to the latest PISA results that show a decline in student performance. examines the German school portal The current studies and their different results regarding the effects of cell phone bans on the learning success.

positive effects on learning

A new study by the University of Augsburg has dealt with the positive effects of a cell phone ban in schools. This research shows that a ban not only improves the social climate, but also increases the students' learning performance. Teachers confirm that visible cell phones can significantly affect the concentration and learning processes. An improved class climate promotes successful learning and teaching. Some schools like the Werner-Heisenberg-Gymnasium are already well positioned, while others are still looking for the right solution. The Tagesschau provides further insights into the topic.

Despite the positive aspects, it is important that these bans are not isolated. The scientists emphasize that a ban can do little without suitable pedagogical accompaniment. Students should also learn to deal with technology responsibly instead of just banishing them. The combination of ban and educational measures to promote media literacy is also considered crucial. The goal should be to develop a balanced use of smartphones in everyday school life.

With regard to the further development of mobile phone bans in schools, it remains to be seen how politics reacts and which models will prevail. In any case, the desire for more clarity and instructions on politics from the school system can be felt. The discussion continues and the schools will continue to deal with this important question.