Cellphone bans lead to improved academic outcomes once schools get past the disciplinary phase, which typically lasts a year after enforcement begins.
Researchers from the National Bureau of Economic Research examined the effects of cell phone bans on test scores, suspensions and absences in Florida, which implemented a statewide ban in May 2023.
Here’s what the researchers found.
Key findings
During the first year of bans, Florida students were suspended more frequently for cell phone infractions. In one district, suspension rates more than doubled in the month after the ban took effect.
Disciplinary action fell sharply in year two. Interestingly, student test scores began to improve in year one, but only by about 3% compared to the year prior.
Cell phone bans also led to significant reductions in unexcused absences, which is a likely contributor to improved test scores.
Meanwhile, discipline fell heavier on Black students, among whom suspensions rose by nearly 30% in the first year. The spike mostly dissipated in the second year of the ban, the research adds.
The question is whether leaders are willing to endure the initial spike in disciplinary referrals. “The challenge that educators face then is to minimize these short-term adverse effects until a new status quo without cell phones is established in schools,” the researchers wrote.
About the ban
In July 2023, Florida passed the “Technology in K-12 Public Schools” bill, which prescribes specific measures school boards must take to protect instructional time and ensure the safety of students while accessing the internet at school, according to the research.
The law prohibits students from using cellphones at school in an effort to improve mental health and prevent cyberbullying. Florida districts are also required to adopt an internet safety policy for students.
Schools must block students from social media, unless use is specified by a teacher for instructional purposes. It also bans TikTok completely.
Finally, students in grades 6 through 12 must receive instruction on the social, emotional and physical effects of social media.
You can read about the bill here.
More from DA: How to use AI to support learning differences
