Dutch Schools Report Improved Focus, Social Climate After Smartphone Ban

A government-commissioned study in the Netherlands found that the ban on mobile phones and other electronic devices in schools, implemented in January 2024, has significantly improved students' focus and the social environment. About 75% of secondary schools reported increased student attention, nearly 60% noted better social interactions, and around 30% observed improvements in academic performance. The ban also reduced distractions and helped foster safer and more engaging interactions among students, particularly during breaks, as students spent more time communicating face-to-face rather than on their phones. Initial concerns about the ban proved unfounded, with teachers, students, and parents largely expressing satisfaction with the positive changes. Exceptions remain for medical devices such as hearing aids, and the impact was less noticeable in primary schools, where younger students typically bring phones less often. Overall, the Dutch experience highlights how restricting digital distractions can enhance both educational outcomes and social dynamics in schools.