For the first time since the late 1800s, cognitive development in young people has stalled and even declined compared to their parents' generation. As screens took over classrooms worldwide, Gen Z's focus and learning performance dropped. Denmark is now proving that unplugging from digital devices and returning to traditional learning methods can help restore sharper minds and better mental health.
- Gen Z is the first generation with slower cognitive gains than parents
- Screens in classrooms linked to lower standardized test scores worldwide
- Denmark’s screen-free approach boosts focus, mental health, and learning
What happened
Since the late 1800s, every generation has generally outperformed the one before it in cognitive abilities, reflecting longer schooling and improved education methods. However, recent data shows that Generation Z broke this pattern for the first time, with cognitive development not rising as expected during their school years. This reversal has been linked to the increased integration of digital technology in classrooms that began around 2010.
Students who regularly use computers for learning in school reportedly perform worse on standardized tests than those who have minimal screen time. Experts, including cognitive neuroscientist Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath, have raised concerns about these declines, noting that adjustments to standardized testing have lowered expectations to accommodate students’ reduced attention spans and lower scores.
Why it feels good
Denmark responded to these global trends with decisive action starting in the 2025/2026 school year by removing laptops, tablets, and phones from most classroom activities. Instead, physical textbooks, workbooks, and handwriting exercises returned to the center of learning. This move has enhanced students’ ability to concentrate and engage more deeply with their studies, according to teachers and students alike.
Beyond academics, the reduction in screen time has also positively influenced mental health and self-esteem among Danish youth. Students find joy in reading and writing without digital distractions, and schools have extended these principles beyond class by limiting electronic use during afterschool programs and promoting events like No Phone Day. This holistic approach supports a healthier balance between technology and learning.
What to enjoy or watch next
Denmark’s experiment offers a promising model for other countries grappling with similar cognitive and mental health challenges among young people. Observers can watch closely as the benefits of screen-free education are measured over time, potentially inspiring broader educational reforms globally.
Meanwhile, parents, educators, and policymakers can consider how to thoughtfully integrate technology in a way that supports rather than hinders cognitive development. The balance of traditional and digital methods might become a key focus in education discussions as the world seeks to foster sharper, more resilient generations ahead.