Recent reports show a troubling trend: U.S. students are struggling with math more than ever. NAEP data reveals an eight-point drop in eighth-grade math scores—the worst in 50 years. PISA shows even steeper declines, with eighth graders losing 27 points since 2019. (source)
The Root Causes of Declining Math Skills
Several factors contribute to this decline, including ineffective teaching methods, lack of engagement, and disruptions caused by the pandemic. However, one of the most significant and often overlooked factors is excessive screen time and the increasing dependence on digital devices.
Children are spending more time on entertainment apps, social media, and video games, leaving little room for focused learning. Studies show that the overuse of digital devices leads to shorter attention spans and reduced problem-solving skills—both critical for math proficiency. Instead of practicing mathematical reasoning, many students are passively consuming content, which impacts their ability to focus and retain knowledge.
Why Traditional Methods Aren’t Enough
Federal funding and tutoring efforts aim to close the gap, but they aren’t working fast enough. Many students remain disengaged, and conventional math drills lack the interactive, rewarding nature that keeps kids motivated. IQminute steps in to bridge this gap by transforming math practice into a game-like experience where students earn screen time by solving math problems. This incentive-driven learning helps children view math as a fun challenge rather than an obligation.
How IQminute Makes a Difference
Unlike traditional learning, IQminute offers a solution that fits seamlessly into a child’s daily routine. Instead of parents battling over screen time limits, kids are encouraged to use their devices for learning first. By solving math problems, they unlock access to their favorite digital activities—encouraging self-motivation and consistent practice. This method helps reinforce concepts in a way that keeps students engaged long-term while addressing the issue of excessive screen time in a productive manner.
The Role of Parents in Math Education
Parents play a crucial role in their child’s education, but many struggle to find effective ways to support math learning at home. With IQminute, parents no longer need to enforce screen time rules manually—technology does it for them. By integrating math learning into screen usage, IQminute removes the burden from parents and fosters independent learning habits, reducing passive screen consumption while enhancing math skills.
A Call to Action: Join the Movement
Math skills are fundamental to future success in STEM fields and beyond. The current decline threatens to widen achievement gaps and limit opportunities for today’s students. We believe IQminute is the solution to help reverse this trend.
📢 Sign up for the IQminute waitlist today and support our mission to make math learning engaging, effective, and rewarding for all children. Together, we can build a generation of confident problem-solvers!