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Expert Network on Economics and Sociology of Education and Training (ENESET)
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Screen time and educational outcomes of children and adolescents: a complex, multifaceted relationship

This literature review explores the relationship between screen time and academic achievement in children and adolescents. 

Details

Publication date
18 January 2025
Author
Network of Experts on the Social dimension of Education and Training (NESET)
Level of education focus
  • School education
Thematic areas covered
  • Digital education and technological innovation
  • Educational attainment and participation in education

Description

This literature review explores the relationship between screen time and academic achievement in children and adolescents.

While the rise of technological innovations offers numerous advantages, concerns have arisen about the potential negative effects of excessive screen time on their lifestyle behaviours, physical health, socioemotional functioning, and academic performance. 

Several possible mechanisms were identified that suggest high screen time to be associated with changes in brain development and functioning in vulnerable developmental periods, changes in executive functioning, loss of sleep and decreased psychological well-being and mental health, which in turn may negatively affect academic performance.

In addition, emphasis is placed on the importance of considering the nuances of screen time use in regard to its quality and beyond its quantity.

Author

Katharina Nett

Cite as

Nett, K. (2025). ‘Screen Time and Educational Outcomes of Children and Adolescents: A complex, multifaceted relationship’, NESET ad hoc report.

Files

  • 18 JANUARY 2025
Screen time and educational outcomes of children and adolescents: a complex, multifaceted relationship