Tech in schools - Yay or Nay?

The Ipsos Education Monitor 2025 shows a strong public desire for stricter controls on digital technology for students, reflecting growing concerns over its potential negative impacts on young, developing minds. 

An overwhelming 68% of Indians believe children under 14 should be banned from social media. This sentiment is fueled by the well-documented risks associated with these platforms, including increased anxiety, depression, and exposure to cyberbullying. Studies have shown that excessive social media use can disrupt sleep, erode self-esteem, and foster addiction-like behaviors.

Earlier this year Netflix drama Adolescence started conversations around the world on social media and its effects on young people. In the final episode the protagonist’s mother says they thought their son was safe from harm inside their home, in his room, on his computer. This highlights the negative effects of early exposure to social media, and its impact on young minds. 

Apart from social media, 50% on average think smartphones should be banned in school. These devices are often a primary source of distraction, pulling students' focus away from lessons. Beyond academics, constant connectivity can lead to social isolation, reduced physical activity, and even physical health issues.

Interestingly, the call for banning Artificial Intelligence (AI) like ChatGPT is less pronounced, with only 39% agreeing. However, the perceived positive impact of AI on education has been seeing a steady decline. Over the last two years, as AI has become a greater part of our lives, people are starting to feel more strongly about where the technology has a place and where it does not.

What next?

The Government and Schools should feel emboldened to act, as we have seen the general public – and in particular parents – feel action is needed.

This year Australia became the first country to set minimum age controls for social media platforms. Under the legislation under-16s will be banned - social media companies will need to take reasonable steps to ensure accounts belong to those 17 and older.

But once the genie is out of the bottle and children already have social media accounts, is it just as simple as taking them away and everything will be fixed? On top of this if there is one thing teenagers are good at it’s getting round the rules set for them. For example, does banning alcohol for under-18s stop young people drinking?                 

While there are questions around the effectiveness of implementing a ban, there is a clear desire for stronger guardrails around social media and smartphones, while the conversation around AI is more open - reflecting both its potential and its perceived risks.