Many parents believe that their children spend too much time on mobile devices, which has negative effects on their mental health and academic performance. The evidence supporting these concerns is overwhelming. Studies have shown that excessive use of smartphones and social media contributes to rising rates of teenage depression and self-harm and hampers students’ learning. Numerous international assessments have demonstrated that prolonged use of technology in the classroom is detrimental to academic achievement. For instance, a 14-country study referenced in a UN report discovered that merely being near smartphones disrupts learning for students of all ages, especially those who struggle academically.
In light of these findings, the British government recently announced that it will require schools to prohibit the use of mobile phones during the school day. Other European countries, such as the Netherlands and France, have already implemented similar bans. While it may be challenging to enforce these policies, regions that have successfully implemented bans have seen significant improvements. For example, in Spain, math test scores increased by over half a year’s worth of learning after implementing a ban on phones. Furthermore, an analysis of more than 100 Norwegian middle schools in 2022 revealed that banning phones resulted in improved grades, test scores, and increased chances of attending advanced high schools. Interestingly, it also yielded greater academic improvements compared to more expensive initiatives, like reducing class sizes or increasing computer access.
However, in the United States, schools appear to be moving in the opposite direction. As of 2020, only 76% of public schools reported prohibiting the “non-academic” use of phones during school hours, down from over 90% a decade prior. Moreover, these restrictions are often disregarded. In response to the surge in smartphone use during the pandemic, exacerbated by school closures, some districts seem to have abandoned efforts to keep devices out of students’ hands. A recent survey found that 97% of American adolescents admit to using their phones during the school day, primarily for social media, YouTube, and video games.
Halting this trend is crucial to help students recover from setbacks and prevent long-term damage to their academic and career prospects. Implementing European-style national bans may not be feasible in the US due to local control of schools. Nevertheless, policymakers should prioritize addressing this issue urgently. State legislatures should advocate for school-wide bans on phone use throughout the school day, including passing periods and recesses, and should enforce confiscation if necessary. Incentives should be provided to districts that demonstrate academic improvements after implementing these bans. Additionally, support should be given to schools to afford electronic-storage pouches and phone lockers.
While it is understandable that parents may have concerns and anxieties about implementing phone bans, schools should stand firm and ensure that emergency-contact protocols are sufficient for communication during crises. It is now beyond dispute that smartphones have no place in the classroom, despite their importance in modern life. Removing them from schools will undoubtedly benefit students. – Bloomberg
(The Editorial Board publishes the views of the editors across a range of national and global affairs.)
