College Students Go Phone-Free for Three Weeks in Groundbreaking Research Project with University of York

‘Beyond the Screen’ Study Sees Students Disconnect from Phones

Students at Birkenhead Sixth Form College have taken part in a unique research project, Beyond the Screen, in collaboration with the University of York, exploring the impact of mobile phone usage on young people’s wellbeing, focus, and social lives.

As part of the study, participating students voluntarily gave up their mobile phones for a full three weeks, with researchers gathering data on how the absence of constant connectivity affected their daily routines, study habits, and wellbeing.

The project has drawn national interest as one of the first of its kind in a sixth form setting. It aims to better understand the complex relationship between young people and their devices – and to help educators, parents, and policy-makers make more informed decisions around digital usage.

Deputy Principal of Birkenhead Sixth Form College, Rob Myatt, said:

“We’re incredibly proud of our students for engaging so positively with Beyond the Screen. It’s not easy to step away from something that’s so embedded in modern life, but our students embraced the challenge with maturity and curiosity. This project aligns closely with our commitment to developing not just academic success, but emotional resilience and self-awareness in our young people.”

Early reflections from students reveal increased face-to-face interaction, improved sleep, and better concentration – with some students even reporting a desire to keep their screen time reduced long after the project ends.

Parents of the participants also shared striking observations. Several noted improvements in their child’s mood and ability to engage more deeply in conversations at home. One parent described the experience as “a refreshing reset,” while another shared, “It’s been eye-opening to see just how much more present and relaxed they’ve become.” 

At the end of project celebration, Emma Sullivan, Postdoctoral Research Associate, congratulated college students, “thank you all so much for taking part in this study. It is a massive undertaking to give up your phone for three weeks, so really well done. It has been such a pleasure to test in such a welcoming and friendly educational environment and you should all be really proud of yourselves.”

Beyond the Screen