Smartphone free schools: what does the evidence say?
Increased academic performance and learning
When phones are removed from the school day, academic attainment improves.
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One study found that students at smartphone-free schools get GCSE results 1-2 grades higher.
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Another study found that that the ‘mere presence’ of a phone, even if it’s not being used, can ‘result in attentional and performance deficits.’
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A UK study,done across four English cities, found that student performance in GCSE results ‘significantly increases post ban.’ The impact was particularly profound for lower-achieving students. The authors conclude that a ban can be a ‘low-cost policy to reduce educational inequalities.’
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One meta-analysis found that smartphone addiction has negative impacts on student learning and overall academic performance, with greater phone use while studying leading to a greater negative impact on learning.
Better mental health
Banning phones from schools can reduce anxiety and boost social interaction.
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A recent study from ​from Norway found that banning mobile phones in schools could have a positive impact on the psychological health outcomes and academic outcomes of girls. This was particularly pronounced in girls from lower socio-economic backgrounds. The study also found that banning phones led to a reduction in bullying of both boys and girls. The author, Sara Abrahamsson concludes that restricting smartphones at school could be a low-cost policy tool to improve student outcomes, but only if it is disincentivises children from bringing a device into school in the first place.
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A safer environment
Removing smartphones safeguards students from harmful content and bullying.
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This Policy Exchange report found that schools with strong smartphone bans report fewer issues with cyberbullying, and exposure to inappropriate content.
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A Spanish study ​conducted in two autonomous regions which had restricted phones, found that within two years, PISA scores in both maths and science had increased significantly (the equivalent of between 0.6 and 1.0 years of learning). The bans also led to a reduction in bullying.