There’s no denying that technology has revolutionized education, enhancing learning and broadening students' access to knowledge in schools and universities. However, the overreliance on digital tools—especially in early education—may backfire, negatively impacting students’ mental, physical, and social well-being.
In this report, we speak with Dr. Mahmoud Al-Alfi, Professor of Technology and Software Sciences, who outlines the main drawbacks of excessive screen dependency in classrooms. He also highlights scientific evidence and global case studies that underscore the risks, and offers practical solutions for balancing digital benefits with student health.
The Swedish Experiment: A Lesson in Overuse
In 2023, a school in Sweden made headlines when it decided to eliminate paper books entirely and provide every student with a tablet instead. Initially praised as a forward-thinking digital move, the decision soon faced criticism.
After just one academic year, the school reversed the policy due to a noticeable decline in academic performance, alongside an increase in behavioral and attention issues in the classroom—mirroring similar outcomes in other tech-heavy educational systems worldwide.
Academic and Cognitive Impact: A Decline in Focus
Research reveals that excessive screen exposure reduces students' attention spans and diminishes their ability to process information deeply. Prolonged screen time promotes distraction and weakens analytical and critical thinking skills.
Dr. Al-Alfi emphasizes that digital activities should not completely replace traditional learning, such as paper-based work and classroom discussions. Experts recommend limiting screen time during school hours to preserve students’ mental focus and intellectual stamina.
Alarming Mental Health Effects
A growing body of research links excessive digital device use with increased levels of anxiety and depression among children and adolescents. Around 25% of children reportedly engage with smartphones in a pattern consistent with addiction-like behaviors.
Schools that integrate too much digital content without emotional and behavioral support often create a high-stress learning environment. Incorporating screen-free breaks and encouraging non-digital activities like play, art, and movement can help maintain a healthier emotional balance.
Physical Health Concerns Are Rising
Today’s students often report neck and back pain, eye strain, and fatigue—the result of long hours spent hunched over tablets and screens. Known as Computer Vision Syndrome, symptoms include blurred vision, headaches, and dry eyes.
Experts recommend that screen use for educational purposes should not exceed two hours per day, particularly for young students. Schools should also incorporate frequent movement breaks, eye-rest routines, and ergonomic seating arrangements to protect students’ physical health.
Social and Emotional Skills Are at Risk
In traditional classrooms, students learn essential life skills through face-to-face interaction with teachers and peers—including how to communicate, express themselves, and empathize with others.
But in classrooms dominated by screens, human interaction declines sharply, negatively impacting students' emotional intelligence and social development. Dr. Al-Alfi warns that children need direct social engagement to build confidence and interpersonal skills, and digital tools should complement—not replace—those experiences.
Conclusion: Striking the Right Balance
While educational technology offers immense advantages, its uncontrolled use can undermine core aspects of learning and development. Schools and families must recognize the limits of screen-based education and adopt a balanced, guided approach.
Dr. Al-Alfi recommends:
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Combining digital tools with traditional learning.
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Limiting daily screen time in classrooms.
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Scheduling regular screen-free breaks.
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Encouraging collaborative, face-to-face classroom activities.
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Educating teachers and parents on the signs of digital overload.
In an age where screens are everywhere, the real challenge is not just access to technology, but how wisely we choose to use it.
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