South Korea is taking a bold step to combat classroom distractions – starting next semester, all primary and secondary schools will ban mobile phones and digital devices during class hours. The move aims to improve focus and mental health among students, with education officials calling it a "necessary reset" in our hyper-connected world.
Why now? 🧐
The decision follows studies showing Korean teens spend 4+ hours daily on smartphones. "We’re seeing increased anxiety and decreased attention spans," said a Ministry of Education representative. Schools will provide locked storage units, turning classrooms into tech-free zones resembling those intense K-drama study sessions we all love. 📚✨
A pilot program in Seoul saw test scores rise by 12% and student-reported stress levels drop. But not everyone’s cheering – some parents worry about emergency communication. The ministry promises exceptions for medical needs and quick parent-teacher coordination systems.
This comes as global educators debate screen time. Could this be the start of a worldwide digital detox trend? Only time – and report cards – will tell. 🕒📈
Reference(s):
Asia News Wrap: South Korea to ban mobile phones in schools and more
cgtn.com