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Research Brief: Strengthening K-12 Cellphone Policies to Support Student Learning and Well-Being: Research-Based Guidance for U.S. Education Leaders

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Type:
  Printable Tool
Authors:
Kathy Do, Ph.D.; Jennie Grammer, Ph.D.; and Joseph Bishop, Ph.D.
Developed by:
UC|CSU Collaborative for Neuroscience, Diversity, and Learning and UCLA Center for the Transformation of Schools
Relevant categories:
Adolescence Cognitive Development Early Adolescence Public Policy Technology
This is a printable tool.
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Overview


Cellphones have become part of students’ daily lives—powerful tools for learning, connection, and self-expression. At the same time, their use in schools can raise concerns around attention, stress, and safety. With more U.S. states moving toward regulation, education leaders have both a challenge and an opportunity to develop school cellphone policies that promote healthy, equitable, and effective technology use. This research brief translates developmental science and policy trends into evidence-based recommendations for K-12 leaders to support focused learning, healthy digital habits, and safer school environments.

  Keywords: Cell Phone, Developmental Science, Digital Media, Phone Policies

Learning objectives


  • Summarize current research findings on the impact of cellphones on learning and well-being from childhood to adolescence
  • Apply strategies that support healthier digital habits in and out of the classroom
  • Design and implement school cellphone policies that promote learning and well-being, align with students’ developmental needs, and are inclusive of all learners
  • Understand how different U.S. school cellphone policies connect to research and anticipate the challenges schools face with implementation

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