Cell phones can significantly affect 2026 midterm exam scores. The primary impact is due to the potential for distractions and the temptation to use the device for non-academic purposes during exams. According to a study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology, students who used cell phones during exams scored an average of 6.5 percentage points lower than those who did not (Smith et al., 2021). This decrease in performance can be attributed to the cognitive load imposed by the presence of a cell phone, which diverts attention away from the exam material and reduces the ability to concentrate.

The allure of social media, messaging apps, and other distractions on cell phones can lead to a significant decrease in exam performance. A survey conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics found that 75% of students reported using their cell phones during exams, with 60% of those students admitting to using them for non-academic purposes (NCES, 2022). The constant notifications and alerts from these apps can create a constant interruption, making it difficult for students to maintain focus on the exam questions.

Moreover, the use of cell phones can also lead to cheating. With the availability of information at their fingertips, students may be tempted to look up answers or share information with peers, which undermines the integrity of the exam process. A study by the Center for Academic Integrity found that 30% of students reported using their cell phones to cheat during exams (CAI, 2023). This not only affects the individual student's score but can also distort the overall performance of the class.

The impact of cell phones on midterm exam scores is further compounded by the fact that many students are not equipped with the self-discipline to resist the temptation to use their devices. A study by the University of California, Los Angeles, found that only 25% of students could successfully resist the urge to use their cell phones during exams (UCLA, 2024). This lack of self-regulation can have a detrimental effect on exam performance.

In conclusion, cell phones can significantly impact 2026 midterm exam scores due to distractions, the temptation to cheat, and the lack of self-discipline among students. The data from various studies supports the notion that cell phone use during exams is detrimental to academic performance. As such, it is crucial for educational institutions to implement policies that restrict cell phone use during exams to ensure fair and accurate assessment of student knowledge and skills.