PISA results spark debate over education decline in Spain

Recent PISA test results have sparked debate regarding educational declines in several Spanish regions. In the Balearic Islands, reading comprehension scores dropped to 441 points, a decrease of 31 points compared to 2022. Education Minister Antoni Vera attributed part of this decline to screen usage, advocating for a return to traditional methods such as using paper, pens, and physical books to foster better learning habits.

Sociologist Mariano Fernández Enguita provided a different perspective on regional declines, specifically pointing to linguistic factors in Catalonia and the Basque Country. He suggested that using a language of instruction different from the students' native language can significantly impact comprehension and academic performance. The discussion also touched upon the complexities of classroom technology, noting that while moderate educational use of digital devices can be beneficial, recreational use during class is linked to poorer results.