The US Spent $30 Billion on Classroom Laptops and Got the First Generation Less Capable Than Its Parents

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by msmash

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The United States has spent over $30 billion in 2024 alone on equipping classrooms with laptops and tablets, yet this significant investment may be contributing to declining academic performance among Gen Z. Neuroscientist Jared Cooney Horvath testified before the U.S. Senate, revealing that this generation is the first in modern history to score lower on standardized tests than the previous one. Drawing from PISA data, Horvath highlighted a concerning correlation between increased screen time in schools and decreased test scores worldwide. Additionally, a 2014 study found that university students were distracted nearly two-thirds of the time while using their devices for schoolwork. The roots of this issue can be traced back to Maine’s pioneering initiative in 2002, which distributed 17,000 Apple laptops across 243 schools. However, by 2017, it became clear that the program had failed to produce measurable improvements in test scores. Then-Gov. Paul LePage labeled it a "massive failure," echoing concerns raised by researchers about the effectiveness of technology-driven education. Horvath emphasized that the problem lies not with individual students but with flawed educational policies and over-reliance on digital tools. This revelation is particularly significant for readers interested in tech, as it challenges the assumption that more screen time in schools equates to better learning outcomes. The findings suggest a critical need to reevaluate how technology is integrated into classrooms. While technology can enhance education, its misuse or overuse may hinder academic progress and cognitive development. Horvath’s analysis underscores the importance of evidence-based educational strategies and warns against treating digital tools as panaceas for systemic challenges in education. Ultimately, this story highlights the risks of implementing large-scale tech initiatives without adequate research or evaluation. The failure of Maine’s program and the broader decline in student performance serve as a cautionary tale for policymakers and educators. As the U.S. continues to invest heavily in classroom technology, it

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Originally published on Slashdot on 2/24/2026