Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa Senate Bill SF237

Introduced
2/10/25  

Caption

A bill for an act directing the department of education to convene a working group to study the impact of technology on the cognitive function and academic performance of students.(See SF 516.)

Impact

This bill could lead to changes in how technology is utilized within educational systems across the state. By examining school-provided technology, the findings from the working group will inform future decisions and policies concerning educational tools and platforms. The goal is to ensure that the use of technology aligns with and supports students' cognitive and social development, rather than detracting from it.

Summary

Senate File 237 directs the Iowa Department of Education, in collaboration with the Department of Health and Human Services, to convene a working group. This group is tasked with studying the impacts of technology provided in schools, such as laptops and online learning resources, on the cognitive functions and academic performance of students. The bill is significant as it intends to address the increasing presence of technology in educational settings and its potential influence on students' learning experiences.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding SF237 is the underlying assumption about the effects of technology on children and adolescents. Although many educators see technology as an essential educational resource, concerns exist regarding its potential negative effects on attention spans, mental concentration, and behavioral development. The findings and recommendations from the working group will need to address these concerns thoughtfully to balance the benefits of technological advancements with the need for healthy academic development.

Companion Bills

IA SF516

Similar To A bill for an act directing the department of education to convene a working group to study the impact of technology on the cognitive function and academic performance of students.(Formerly SF 237.)

Previously Filed As

IA SF39

A bill for an act directing the department of education to convene a working group to study the impact of technology on the cognitive function of students.(See SF 248.)

IA SF248

A bill for an act directing the department of education to convene a working group to study the impact of technology on the cognitive function of students.(Formerly SF 39.)

IA SF38

A bill for an act directing the department of education to convene an achievement gap working group.(See SF 389.)

IA SF389

A bill for an act directing the department of education to convene an achievement gap working group.(Formerly SF 38.)

IA HF563

A bill for an act directing the department of education to convene a working group to study the effectiveness of efforts related to increasing the reading proficiency of students enrolled in school districts in kindergarten through grade three.

IA HF500

A bill for an act directing the department of education, in consultation with the board of educational examiners, to convene a working group to study the need for additional diversity and cultural competency training for teachers.

IA HSB219

A bill for an act relating to education, including modifying provisions related to school district library programs and the educational program provided to students enrolled in school districts, accredited nonpublic schools, and charter schools.(See HF 597.)

IA HF477

A bill for an act requiring the director of the department of education to establish a low-income student and poverty weighting work group.

IA HF2544

A bill for an act relating to education, including by modifying provisions related to the social studies instruction provided to students enrolled in grades one through twelve and the educational programs provided by the institutions of higher education under the control of the state board of regents, and requiring education related to the holocaust for students and teachers in school districts. (Formerly HF 2330.)

IA HF2330

A bill for an act relating to education, including by modifying provisions related to the social studies instruction provided to students enrolled in grades one through twelve and the educational programs provided by the institutions of higher education under the control of the state board of regents.(See HF 2544.)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.