Cell phone use high among children, school bans show mixed results

6 out of 10 children in Argentina own a cellphone by age 8, according to a report by Argentinos por la Educación based on Aprender 2024 data Source: clarin. The study found that 59% of third-graders have their own device, 23% use a family member's, and only 18% lack access. In Colombia, 88% of minors access the internet via cellphone, with 92% connecting from home and just 53% from school Source: portafolioco.

Regional and socioeconomic gaps

In Argentina, ownership varies by province: over 65% in Santa Cruz, Catamarca, and Tierra del Fuego versus around 40% in Misiones and Formosa. Socioeconomic status also matters: 63% of students in the highest quintile have a phone, compared to 52% in the lowest Source: lavozar. In secondary school, 90% of students have a phone Source: infobae.

The debate over school bans

While 60% of countries now restrict phones in schools, evidence on academic benefits is inconclusive. Some studies show moderate gains for low-performing or vulnerable students, while others find no significant change Source: clarin. Bans do reduce distractions and usage, but these changes don't always translate into better learning Source: infobae. Andrea Goldin, a co-author, noted that bans may 'sweep the problem under the rug' Source: infobae.

Digital skills gap

In Colombia, only 13% of children can verify online information, and 9% can protect their devices . The LEE Javeriana report highlights that despite high access, quality of connection and digital literacy remain challenges .