Story perspectives

Neuroscientist Warns: Gen Z's Declining Test Scores Linked to Screen Time

2/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Jared Cooney Horvath, a neuroscientist, testified before the U.S. Senate that Gen Z is performing worse academically and is the first generation to score lower on standardized tests than predecessors.
Horvath attributes this decline to excessive screen time, which he says hampers attention and memory.
Other experts proposed measures such as banning social media in schools, while others say test scores reflect learned skills and environmental factors.

History

Historical Context

In 1990, the National Assessment of Educational Progress revealed that only 29% of U.S. 4th graders were proficient in reading, a trend echoed by Jared Cooney Horvath's recent findings showing Gen Z's declining standardized test scores. This decline, linked to increased technology use, raises concerns about educational standards and workforce readiness, prompting calls for interventions like banning social media in schools.

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Story summary

Jared Cooney Horvath, a neuroscientist, testified before the U.S. Senate that Gen Z is performing worse academically and is the first generation to score lower on standardized tests than predecessors.
Horvath attributes this decline to excessive screen time, which he says hampers attention and memory.
Other experts proposed measures such as banning social media in schools, while others say test scores reflect learned skills and environmental factors.

1 / 2