Time to Ban Phones From Classrooms
A wave of distraction is sweeping through classrooms nationwide, with constant notifications from smartphones and apps, particularly social media, diverting students’ attention from teachers and their peers.
As the CEO of Pinterest and a long-time tech executive, I am keenly aware of how algorithms often prioritize keeping users glued to their screens. As a parent, I also see how these apps can be more addictive than beneficial, which can negatively affect students’ focus both in and out of the classroom.
Smartphones have their place, but it’s not during class time.
Numerous studies have highlighted the detrimental effects of excessive screen time. Children and adolescents who spend hours on social media via their phones are more prone to anxiety, depression, and difficulty concentrating.
The constant allure of smartphones presents a challenge for teachers and parents. However, this situation can be changed.
Across the nation, state and local authorities are actively addressing this issue by introducing or deliberating on legislation aimed at limiting phone usage in schools. Public sentiment also aligns with this strategy. A majority supports prohibiting middle and high school students from using cellphones during class. Furthermore, a significant percentage express a preference against their child owning a smartphone before high school.
As more schools implement phone-free policies, there is growing evidence suggesting they are enhancing student learning and overall success. A recent study indicated increased student engagement, fewer missed assignments, and reduced behavioral issues. When students reflected on this issue, many acknowledged the need for some boundaries around phone use, with several supporting an outright ban.
However, it’s not fair to burden state governments, local school boards, and teachers with this responsibility alone. Given the powerful draw of phone screens, DMs, and social media, tech companies must contribute to the solution.
This begins with supporting phone-free school legislation. For example, Pinterest is endorsing HB379 in Texas, which aims to establish school phone policies that encourage distraction-free learning environments. We have also contacted the governors of California, Florida, New York, and Virginia, offering our support as they implement their phone-free school initiatives.
Additionally, tech companies should move away from prioritizing constant attention. Instead of solely focusing on boosting view time through addictive features, we should help young people be more mindful of their online habits. That’s why Pinterest is launching a campaign across the U.S. and Canada, encouraging students to close the Pinterest app and disable device notifications during school hours to enhance their focus on learning.
I am confident that we can leverage the benefits of technology for our students while minimizing its potential harms. We have an opportunity to cultivate a new generation of young individuals who are responsible digital citizens, capable of critical thinking about their online consumption habits.
It’s time for tech companies to prioritize learning and youth wellbeing, starting with phone-free schools.