Neuroscientist Jared Cooney Horvath has issued a stark warning regarding the cognitive abilities of Generation Z, describing them as the first generation in modern history to perform worse cognitively than their parents. Despite unprecedented access to technology, Gen Z’s scores on standardized tests measuring literacy and numeracy have declined compared to previous generations. This drop signals a broader erosion of cognitive capabilities over the past decade.
Horvath testified before the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, citing data from the Program for International Student Assessment and other standardized tests worldwide. He highlighted a concerning correlation: increased screen time in schools is linked to lower academic performance. According to Horvath, rather than improving learning, unrestricted technology use has weakened educational outcomes.
The Rise of Technology in Education
Starting in 2002, Maine was the first state to distribute laptops statewide among certain grade levels, aiming to enhance student learning by integrating technology. By 2016, this initiative expanded to provide 66,000 laptops and tablets to students. Nationally, educational technology investments surged, with over $30 billion spent on devices for schools. Despite this, years of digital immersion have not translated into improved test scores.
Research indicates that classroom technology usage has grown significantly. A 2021 poll found that 55% of teachers use educational technology one to four hours daily, while another 25% use it five hours or more. However, studies show that students often divert their attention to non-educational activities during class. A 2014 study of university students revealed nearly two-thirds of computer use was off-task, which negatively impacts learning.
How Technology Disrupts Learning
Horvath attributes declining performance partly to the fragmented attention caused by digital devices. Task-switching reduces memory retention and increases errors. Deep and focused engagement with challenging material—vital to effective learning—is hindered by continuous online distractions. "Learning is effortful, difficult, and oftentimes uncomfortable," Horvath explained, emphasizing that this necessary friction has been undermined by tech.
Psychologist Jean Twenge agrees, noting that many popular apps, especially social media and gaming, are deliberately designed for addiction. Their business models depend on maximizing user time and frequent engagement, which further detracts from cognitive development. A Baylor University study found TikTok, in particular, demands the least user effort, delivering a continuous stream of surprising content that keeps users hooked.
Growing concerns about social media’s mental health effects have culminated in lawsuits involving over 1,600 plaintiffs accusing major platforms like Meta, Snap, TikTok, and YouTube of fostering addictive environments that contribute to depression and self-harm among youth.
Addressing the Cognitive Decline
To combat these challenges, Horvath suggests targeted legislative reforms. He advocates for Congress to establish efficacy standards that fund research on which digital tools truly enhance learning. Additionally, protecting students by restricting data tracking and profiling of minors in educational technologies is crucial.
Some states have begun restricting mobile device usage in schools. As of mid-2025, 17 states enforce outright bans on cellphone use during instruction, while 35 states regulate phones in classrooms. More than three-quarters of schools have policies against non-academic phone use, although enforcement remains inconsistent.
Horvath stresses that the cognitive shortcomings of Gen Z are not the fault of individuals but result from systemic failures in educational policies. He considers them victims of a decades-long pedagogical experiment that over-relied on unregulated technology. “This is not their fault,” he said. He hopes a growing awareness stokes frustration and demand for change, empowering Gen Z to reclaim their learning potential.
The intersection of education, technology, and cognitive development presents complex challenges for current and future generations. How education systems adapt to integrate technology effectively while fostering critical thinking will significantly impact society’s capacity to address increasingly difficult global issues.
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