Ban on mobile phones in secondary schools: a sensible measure that needs to be supported, according to Samuel Comblez

A coherent measure, building on the work done at secondary school

For Samuel Comblez, extending the ban to secondary schools is primarily part of a llogical consistency. By applying the principle already used in school and at secondary school, the measure ensures continuity in pupils’ educational journey. 

There is, however, one key difference between secondary school pupils and sixth-formers: the latter, being older, generally demonstrate a greater responsibility in their digital habits. The ban should be accompanied by measures rather than being an outright ban. 

A recognised impact on the school climate, though bullying has not disappeared

Samuel Comblez also recognises a tangible benefit of the measure: it should help to improve the school environment. He highlights, in particular, the issue of cyberbullying, which can lead to a form of’anxiety among some pupils who are affected by this. By preventing them from taking out their mobile phones in class, the measure should help them concentrate. He does, however, make an important point: this ban will not put an end to harassment as such, but it will help to improve the atmosphere at school as a whole.

The risk of a ban without supporting measures

According to Samuel Comblez iImposing bans without supporting young people in their use of digital technology raises questions. In his view, regulatory constraints alone are not enough; they should be accompanied by a educational work among teenagers regarding their screen time and social media.

This is precisely the role of the e-Enfance / 3018 Association, which works throughout the year with pupils from primary school right through to sixth form, to raise their awareness – in a way that is appropriate to their age and online habits – of the potential pitfalls of digital technology and the best practices to adopt.

Read the full interview: BFMTV, 27 August