Classrooms shift to screens: Education’s digital transformation

Technology now dominates US classrooms, with students spending an average of 98 minutes daily on school-issued devices, more than 20% of the average instructional time, according to Lightspeed Systems’ analysis of 2.8 million students.

The number is even higher in sixth graders, peaking at two hours and 24 minutes, 35% of the daily teaching time.

From YouTube lessons in kindergarten to Chromebook-based writing drills in middle school, tech adoption was further accelerated by the pandemic-era online learning. However, its impact remains divisive.

Supporters argue digital tools offer personalized learning and help students develop technical skills. Critics, including educators, psychologists, and even students, highlight distractions, reduced focus and health risks from increasing screen time.

Studies suggest mixed results
Some show improved learning, while others link tech-heavy methods to lower comprehension and engagement.

A University of Michigan survey found that 50% of teachers report students completing at least half of their classwork on devices, up from 20% pre-pandemic.

Meanwhile, parents and students are divided—40% of parents believe tech overuse undermines learning, while 35% of teens feel schools rely too heavily on devices.

As school districts navigate the shift, balancing digital innovation with traditional methods remains a pressing challenge for US education.