School digital device regulation and student wellbeing

Educational institutions and policymakers are addressing the impact of digital device usage on student mental health and academic performance. Data indicates that digital distractions in the classroom are linked to lower academic scores, with some students scoring at least 15 points lower in mathematics. Mental health concerns are also prominent, as 45 percent of students report anxiety when separated from mobile phones, and high social media usage is associated with increased risks of depression and anxiety.

In response to these trends, South Korea has revised the Elementary and Secondary Education Act to ban mobile phones and smart devices during instructional hours, with some schools potentially implementing full-day bans. Similarly, several school districts in the United States, including those in the Washington, D.C. area, are re-evaluating technology use. These measures include prioritizing paper and pencils for elementary students, piloting programs to assess the necessity of one-to-one device assignments, and implementing tech-free periods.