Two years ago, Dutch schools introduced an all-out ban on smartphones, smartwatches and tablets. Their goals were to decrease distractions and increase student focus. Through this pilot, the movement sought to advance a more positive learning experience and help all students perform academically well throughout our nation. The policy goes further than classrooms and includes hallways and canteens. This is a testament to the growing national commitment to eliminating digital distractions.
A recent government-commissioned study revealed that approximately 75% of 317 secondary schools reported noticeable improvements in student concentration since the ban was enacted. Teachers and students overall have seen positive shifts in behavior and engagement, adding to the evidence that this policy works.
Ida Peters, an educator at one of the schools taking part in the challenge described how happy she was to see the outcome.
“As a teacher you’re always trying to get kids’ attention. It’s always a challenge to get that focus in class, and now their phones are less present, that certainly helps.” – Ida Peters
Students have also spoken out about the impacts of the ban. Felix, a student at a Dutch high school, noticed a difference when screens were hidden away. This shift increased his and his peers’ awareness in class and on the playground.
“In the hallways there used to be a lot of checking the phone; now it’s more relaxed, a calmer atmosphere, not too worried about anything else going on.” – Ida Peters
Though still able to get around the phone-in-pocket law, students such as Karel and Felix have adjusted to the new rules. People cluing into the potential They pointed to a rapid shift toward prioritizing more social interactions, with many people choosing conversations over scrolling on their phones.
“People are talking more, going to the shops instead of just sitting in the cafeteria on their phones.” – Felix
The Dutch government’s guidelines similarly advise that children under 15 stay off of social media. A new coalition to defend the digital rights of children A new Europe-wide coalition is calling on governments to set a minimum age of 15. They recently called for effective age verification mechanisms on apps to enforce this policy.
One recent annual survey of public opinion found that support for the age limit among 16-to-28-year-olds skyrocketed to 60%. That’s a dramatic jump from 44% last year. At the time, former education minister Koen Becking made clear that social media’s negative effect on mental health was becoming undeniable. He lamented its detrimental impact on youth socialization.
The slogan “Telefoon t’huis of in de kluis” (Phone at home or in the locker) has become emblematic of the movement against digital distractions in Dutch schools. Permanently posted signs all over school campuses instructing students to power down their devices.
The phone ban has continued to produce spectacular results. Almost 65 percent of students are experiencing a better social climate, and around 35 percent say it’s helped them academically.
