Digital Dilemma: Why Gen Z Is Lagging Behind

A recent study by a leading neuroscientist shows that people born between 1997 and 2010 performed worse on standard school tests than those who came before them. The scientist says the drop in scores is tied to how much time these kids spend looking at screens instead of reading books or doing deep work. The results have been presented to lawmakers, sparking debate about whether classrooms should limit device use. The research points out that Gen Z is the first generation to grow up with constant exposure to phones, tablets and laptops. These gadgets dominate much of their free time, filling the hours that could be used for focused study or conversation with teachers and peers. The scientist argues that humans learn best through social interaction and sustained effort, not quick digital summaries.In classrooms, screens often replace traditional learning tools. Students might use apps to browse short videos or chat while homework is due, rather than reading full texts. This habit turns many into “skimmers, ” who skim information quickly but miss deeper understanding. The expert stresses that the issue is not a dislike of technology. He calls for stricter limits on screen time in schools and a return to older methods like books and late‑night studying. He warns that the trend of improving test scores over generations has stalled with Gen Z, a pattern seen in many countries when digital tools are widely used in education. Looking ahead, the researcher hopes for new policies that reduce classroom tech usage. He believes this could give Gen Alpha a better chance to achieve higher cognitive performance.