Researchers warn phone bans overlook classroom computers

As Denmark plans to remove mobile phones from public schools, researchers say computer screens are a major distraction for pupils. DR reports that they can undermine concentration and learning even when classrooms appear quiet.

School researcher Louise Klinge says she often sees pupils shopping, streaming, gaming or watching pornography on their computers during lessons. Because they can quickly switch away from what they are doing, teachers may not notice, she says.

Klinge argues that focusing only on phones is a limited response when computers are used in much of the teaching in many older pupils’ classes. Classroom management researcher Dorte Ågård agrees, saying pupils can use computers for TikTok, games and other distractions that affect both their own focus and the lesson.

The government announced plans to remove mobile phones from schools, including during breaks, after disappointing PISA results showed Danish pupils performing worse than ever in reading, mathematics and science. The researchers say the policy overlooks the screens used for schoolwork.

A 2025 report from Aarhus University found that pupils working individually on an assignment use a screen in seven out of 10 cases, typically their own computer. Danish pupils also rank first in the PISA study for using digital tools at school, spending an average of 3.2 hours a day on digital learning materials.

Klinge says schools need more funding for analogue teaching materials. Ågård says reducing computer use could improve academic results, arguing that Denmark’s schools have become too digitalised.

Social Democrat education spokesperson Matilde Powers said removing private phones would not be enough, and acknowledged that politicians had been too enthusiastic about technology. She said the intention behind introducing more technology was good, but that they had gone too far.