New Survey Finds 70% of Teachers Anticipate Holiday Surge in Smartwatch Gifting To Impact School Cell Phone Policy Bans | PR Newswire [Video]

Study.com survey reveals a rise in smartwatch technology in classrooms nationwide

, /PRNewswire/ — A recent Study.com survey of teachers with universal cell phone policies in their schools reveals a new challenge: smartwatches. With the holiday season approaching, 70% of teachers are concerned that smartwatches received as gifts will increase classroom distractions and further complicate efforts to maintain focus in schools already navigating cell phone bans.

While cell phone bans have aimed to improve classroom engagement and behavior, half of teachers surveyed report smartwatches are now being used as a substitute for cell phones, allowing students to circumvent existing rules. Additionally, 45% of teachers have overheard students discussing plans to receive smartwatches during the holidays, signaling a likely surge in usage.

Key Findings

Growing Smartwatch Usage in Schools:

• 50% of teachers believe smartwatches have become a substitute for cell phones in classrooms.
• 40% report increased smartwatch usage since cell phone bans were implemented.

Distraction Concerns:

• 60% of teachers cite texting …