The unrestricted use of cell phones in the classroom is also beginning to decline in higher education. At the start of the current academic year, traditional institutions such as Insper, the Getulio Vargas Foundation (FGV), and ESPM announced measures to restrict the use of electronic devices during classes, following the rule already adopted by schools in K-12 education.

Although universities have the autonomy to set their own standards, the decision reflects growing evidence that screen-free environments promote learning.

Until recently, most research on this topic focused on elementary and high school. However, international studies are beginning to suggest that the positive effects of restricting cell phone use also extend to universities.

One of the most significant studies was published in August of last year by Alp Sungu of the University of Pennsylvania, Pradeep Choudhury of Jawaharlal Nehru University, and Andreas Bjerre-Nielsen of the University of Copenhagen.

The study tracked more than 17,000 college students at ten universities in India. Half of the students attended classes where cell phone use was prohibited for one semester, while the other half remained in environments with no restrictions.

The results showed that learning gains in classrooms without cell phones were “statistically significant” and comparable to those of other educational interventions considered successful.

Among the key findings, the researchers observed that students with the greatest prior academic difficulties benefited the most from the measure. The positive impact was also more pronounced among first-year students, possibly because they were still in the process of developing study habits in the university setting.

Independent observers who conducted unannounced visits to classrooms reported fewer interruptions, less off-topic conversation, and even a decrease in cell phone use by the teachers themselves.

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In Brazil, this evidence has led to practical changes in everyday university life. At Insper, in São Paulo, students were informed about the new guidelines on the very first day of class. According to the institution’s director of undergraduate studies, Priscila Claro, the decision involves “intentional considerations.”

The goal is to improve concentration levels during class and restore the social aspect of the academic environment, which is often compromised by constant screen use.

Under the adopted rules, cell phones, tablets, and laptops may only be used when directly related to the educational content being covered at that time. Outside of these situations, the devices must be put away.

For many freshmen, the adjustment has come naturally. “We weren’t allowed to use them anyway. My school was already very strict,” said a first-year student, referring to the federal law that, as of January 2025, restricts the use of cell phones at all levels of basic education.

Other institutions are also taking steps in this direction. The Getúlio Vargas Foundation (FGV) plans to restrict the use of cell phones in the classroom in the first semester of 2026. ESPM, meanwhile, requires that devices be kept on silent mode and stored in purses or backpacks.

In addition, the college has been encouraging students to return to taking notes in physical notebooks, arguing that writing by hand stimulates the brain and helps reinforce learning. The institution emphasizes that the initiative is not a “simple ban,” but rather a guideline based on sound pedagogical practices.

Despite the educational arguments, the change has sparked debate among college students, especially upperclassmen. Many argue that higher education should allow for greater autonomy regarding behavior and study methods.

“We expected more autonomy since we’re in college,” commented an ESPM student. Still, a sense of resignation is also evident: “If it’s a rule, it has to be followed—there’s no way around it,” said another student.

Since federal law does not apply to universities, it is up to each institution to decide how it will implement restrictions on screen use.

Sources: O Globo and Band

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