TEXAS LAWMAKERS TO STUDY IMPACT OF CLASSROOM TECHNOLOGY

March 31, 2026 – AUSTIN — Texas lawmakers are preparing to take a closer look at how increasing use of technology in classrooms is affecting student learning ahead of the 2027 legislative session.

House Speaker Dustin Burrows has directed two committees to examine the role of digital devices in education, including whether heavy reliance on screens is helping or hindering academic performance. The review comes as more schools across Texas incorporate laptops, tablets and online platforms into daily instruction.

Supporters of classroom technology argue that digital tools can expand access to information, personalize learning and prepare students for a modern workforce. However, critics say the rapid shift toward screen-based learning may be doing more harm than good.

The Texas Public Policy Foundation has labeled the trend the “edtech lie,” arguing that technology has been oversold without clear evidence of improved outcomes. Concerns include reduced attention spans, weaker reading comprehension and less critical thinking among students.

When people use the term “edtech lie,” they’re usually pointing to a few key concerns:

• Lower academic performance: Some studies and international examples (like Sweden) suggest heavy screen use can correlate with declines in reading comprehension and focus.
• Distraction over engagement: Devices can split attention—students may appear engaged but are often multitasking or passively consuming content.
• Weaker foundational skills: Overreliance on digital tools may reduce handwriting, deep reading, and problem-solving practice.
• One-size-fits-all thinking: Schools adopted technology broadly without strong evidence it works equally well across subjects, ages, or student needs.

International examples are also influencing the debate. Sweden, which spent years transitioning away from traditional textbooks in favor of digital devices, has reversed course after seeing declines in reading performance. The country is now investing more than $100 million to reintroduce physical textbooks in classrooms.

In Texas, one study found that about 20 percent of instructional time is now spent on school-issued devices, highlighting how deeply technology has become embedded in education.

Lawmakers say the goal of the upcoming review is not to eliminate technology, but to find the right balance. As schools continue to evolve, the question remains whether screens should lead instruction—or simply support it.