Most states have attempted to curb cellphone use in schools in recent years. Parents and educators hoped decreased usage would improve test scores, boost mental health and help students pay more attention in class.
The results, however, have been mixed.
While cellphone bans have reduced unauthorized usage in schools, there has been little academic benefit, according to a study released by the National Bureau of Economic Research on Monday. The average effect on test scores is "consistently close to zero," researchers said in a working paper.
The study — conducted by researchers from Stanford University, the University of Pennsylvania, Duke University and the University of Michigan — also found that cellphone bans do not have much of an effect on attendance, perceptions of online bullying or in-class engagement....
Full story by Lauren Lumpkin on Washington Post
