Lawmakers in the state have introduced a bill that would restrict, and in some circumstances prohibit, the possession and use of smartphones during school hours. Assembly Bill Three states that the move comes in response to “growing evidence” that unrestricted smartphone use undermines learning, while also contributing to bullying and poor mental health among students. It highlights a 2015 UK study that found that test scores improved, particularly among disadvantaged and underachieving pupils, when such phones were banned. France introduced a ban on smartphone use in elementary and middle schools last year, and Ontario, Canada is considering a similar measure.
Lawmakers in the state have introduced a bill that would restrict, and in some circumstances prohibit, the possession and use of smartphones during school hours. Assembly Bill 272 states that the move comes in response to “growing evidence” that unrestricted smartphone use undermines learning, while also contributing to bullying and poor mental health among students. It highlights a 2015 UK study that found that test scores improved, particularly among disadvantaged and underachieving pupils, when such phones were banned. France introduced a ban on smartphone use in elementary and middle schools last year, and Ontario, Canada is considering a similar measure.