ORT Argentina has announced that starting next Monday, students will no longer be allowed to use cell phones or any personal mobile devices during classes and recess. This decision was internally communicated to families and requires students to keep their devices 'turned off, disconnected, and stored in their backpacks' throughout the school day. The administration believes that such restrictions will help create an environment more conducive to collective knowledge construction without distractions.

The primary rationale for this ban is supported by academic evidence that links the restriction of mobile device usage to improvements in students' attention, performance, and social connections. By eliminating the constant temptations of phone usage, ORT intends to foster classroom environments where learning and collaboration can flourish. The school emphasizes the importance of maintaining genuine interactions during breaks, encouraging peer engagement and meaningful play.

This move reflects a growing trend among educational institutions to reevaluate the role of technology in learning environments and its impact on student development. As schools combat distractions of the digital age, this policy could serve as a model for other institutions looking to enhance the educational experience and foster healthier student relationships.