Phone-Free Classrooms Boost Concentration in the Netherlands
A ban on the use of mobile phones and electronic devices in schools in the Netherlands has significantly improved students’ attention in class. According to a study commissioned by the Dutch government, three-quarters of the 317 high schools surveyed reported that the ban had a positive impact on students’ concentration.
The survey results also showed that nearly two-thirds of schools observed an improvement in the social atmosphere within schools following the ban, while one-third noted an increase in students’ academic performance.
Commenting on the issue, the Dutch State Secretary for Primary and Secondary Education, Marielle Paul, said, “Less distraction, more attention to the lesson, and more social students... Not having mobile phones in the classroom is producing wonderful results. It is very pleasing that schools are stepping up on this issue.”
The ban, which took effect on January 1, 2024, also applies to primary schools. However, the study revealed that since students typically start bringing mobile phones only in the final years of primary school, the impact there was more limited. On the other hand, most schools allow exceptions for medical situations that require mobile device connectivity, such as hearing aids.