DistantNews
Support us
🇪🇬 Egypt /Culture & Society

Students learn less when they use tech. So why do schools keep giving kids devices?

From Egypt Independent · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Context piece
  • Many U.S. public schools issue devices to every student, despite evidence that educational technology hinders learning.
  • Studies show students using computers perform worse academically, and excessive screen time causes stress and exhaustion.
  • While schools encourage reduced screen time at home, they simultaneously increase technology use in classrooms, potentially harming a generation of students.

A growing concern among parents and educators is the pervasive use of technology in schools, despite mounting evidence suggesting it impedes student learning. A recent study found that students putting away their phones did not significantly improve learning outcomes, likely because schools are replacing personal devices with other forms of technology.

Human beings have evolved to interact with one another, use our bodies and be outdoors, not stare at screens all day.

— a parentExpressing concern about the impact of screens on children.

Neuroscientist Jared Cooney Horvath's research, detailed in his book "The Digital Delusion," indicates that students who use computers more frequently perform worse academically. These findings are supported by numerous international standardized tests. Despite this, the vast majority of U.S. public schools, 88 percent according to a 2025 survey, issue devices to every student.

This reliance on technology in classrooms contrasts sharply with advice given to parents. School officials often encourage reducing screen time at home, yet simultaneously permit extensive technology use during school hours. One parent shared her daughter's experience in a middle school social studies class where the teacher reportedly conducted no traditional lessons, with all instruction delivered via a digital device. This approach leaves students disengaged from potentially rich discussions on important social and historical topics.

Students who use computers more perform worse academically.

— Jared Cooney HorvathNeuroscientist commenting on the negative impact of classroom technology.

The consequences of this educational approach are significant, with students experiencing stress and exhaustion attributed to constant screen exposure. The article points to Los Angeles' recent resolution to limit screen time in schools as a potential shift, but expresses concern that many other districts may be too slow to adapt, potentially impacting a generation of students who are currently immersed in digital learning environments.

It is just about how she can get through the hours of online forms.

— a parentDescribing her daughter's disengagement in a technology-heavy social studies class.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Egypt Independent. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog