Families’ interest in their kids’ education is falling around the globe as scores drop, test shows

Key Points:

• Newly released PISA test results show that average scores in math, reading, and science among 15-year-olds in many high-income countries have fallen to their lowest levels in the test's history, with the U.S. experiencing continued declines.
• A key factor linked to falling scores is a widespread drop in family engagement in students' education, especially for boys, with students whose families regularly inquire about schoolwork scoring significantly higher.
• Digital distractions in classrooms are prevalent in high-income countries, with over a quarter of students reporting frequent disruptions from devices; countries with strict cellphone policies see lower distraction rates.
• Asian countries, including China, Singapore, Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea, lead in test scores and effectively integrate technology and AI in education, balancing traditional teaching with innovative tools to enhance learning.
• Increased use of AI tools like chatbots correlates with lower test scores, but some countries empower teachers to design AI-supported learning environments, demonstrating successful integration without overreliance on technology.