Dutch Schools Report Improved Learning After Banning Phones

Taking smartphones away from students is a bold move, but in the Netherlands, it’s leading to positive results. Teachers say students are learning better, paying more attention, and classrooms feel much calmer.

A ban on mobile phones and other electronic devices in Dutch schools has improved focus among students, a study commissioned by the Dutch government found. Since national guidelines recommending phone bans went into effect on January 1, 2024, nearly every school has followed suit.

Three-quarters of the 317 surveyed high schools reported that the ban has had a positive effect on students’ concentration. Additionally, nearly two-thirds noted an improvement in the social climate within their schools, and one-third observed better academic performance.

“Less distraction, more attention to the lesson, and more social students. No more mobile phones in the classroom are having wonderful positive effects. It’s great that schools are putting their shoulders to the wheel on this,” said State Secretary for Primary and Secondary Education Mariëlle Paul.

More than half of the schools also observed improved interactions among students. Dr. Alexander Krepel from research institute Kohnstamm Instituut said, “It’s not possible to secretly snap a photo and share it on WhatsApp anymore. Now, kids are actually talking to each other during breaks. Sure, sometimes they argue, but that’s part of real connection.”

Typically, students only begin bringing phones to school in the final years of primary school, so the survey found minimal impact there. However, special needs and primary schools also saw gains, especially in classroom discipline.

Education Minister Mariëlle Paul put it simply: “When one teacher banned phones, it sparked debate. Now, with a national rule, everyone’s on the same page.”

The study noted that most schools allow exceptions for devices needed for medical support, such as hearing aids connected to a mobile device. Teachers and principals reported that the shift was initially challenging, with students feeling disconnected and frustrated when they were without their phones. Over time, however, many students adapted to the new rules, finding alternative ways to spend their breaks and socialize with classmates face-to-face.

The Netherlands is not alone in implementing phone bans to improve classroom behavior and learning outcomes. France has enforced a nationwide ban on mobile phones in primary and middle schools since 2018.

In 2021, China’s Ministry of Education introduced a national policy that prevents primary and secondary students from bringing mobile phones to school, unless they have written permission from their parents. Even then, phones must be handed over to school staff during school hours to reduce distractions and protect students’ eyesight.

Australia has also moved toward phone-free learning. In 2020, Victoria required students to switch off and store phones during school hours to reduce cyberbullying and distractions. New South Wales introduced a similar ban in late 2023, and a 2024 survey found most principals reported fewer distractions and better learning outcomes.

Even in the United Kingdom, schools have been encouraged to limit the use of phones. In February 2024, the government released guidance supporting bans throughout the school day to help students focus on lessons and reduce online harm.

As phone bans become more common around the world, educators continue to weigh their impact on learning, social interactions, and student wellbeing.

Click here to read what Smart Parenting Village members think about cellphone bans in schools.