English
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) highlights that school performance declines, concentration issues, and increased absent-mindedness are largely linked to widespread digitalisation and the use of gadgets in education.
Additionally, a significant amount of screen time negatively affects the emotional state and mental health of schoolchildren and students.
A report on digitalisation's consequences and prospects was published last year. The document emphasises cybersecurity and the physical and mental well-being threatened by excessive technology use. Consequently, UNESCO recommends limiting smartphones, other gadgets, and artificial intelligence. The report stresses that electronic devices and modern technologies should not replace traditional face-to-face communication and interaction with teachers in educational activities.
Over the past year, many countries have gradually implemented the measures recommended by UNESCO. For instance, France and parts of China have banned smartphone use in schools. Finnish schools are moving away from electronic textbooks and are in favour of traditional paper textbooks.
