The Effect of Screen Time on Academic Achievement and School Engagement among Students

Abstract In the current digital age, screen time has become a dominant aspect of students’ daily lives, significantly influencing their academic and social development. This study explores the relationship between screen time and its impact on academic achievement and school engagement among high school students in Raipur and Abhanpur, Chhattisgarh. Utilizing a descriptive research design, data were collected from a representative sample of 500 students through a structured questionnaire. The findings revealed that excessive screen time—particularly for non-educational purposes such as social media and gaming—negatively correlates with academic performance and participation in extracurricular activities. Conversely, screen usage for educational purposes was associated with improved academic outcomes. The study also highlighted concerning trends related to students’ physical and mental well-being, including eye strain, reduced attention span, and increased anxiety. Importantly, students who practiced better screen management and took regular breaks reported more balanced academic and social lives. The research underscores the need for regulated screen time, greater parental and institutional involvement, and promotion of non-digital extracurricular activities. These findings offer valuable insights for educators, parents, and policymakers aiming to foster a healthier, more productive digital learning environment. Keywords: Screen Time, Academic Achievement, School Engagement, Digital Learning, Student Well-being