School heatwaves are eroding students' ability to learn, studies show
Summary
A study involving 14.5 million students across 61 countries found that long-term high temperatures affect students' ability to learn. Specifically, heat negatively impacts performance in complex tasks like math. The issue is more pronounced among lower-income students who often lack adequate air conditioning in schools.Key Facts
- A report studied nearly 14.5 million students in 61 countries.
- Long-term heat exposure affects students' learning abilities, especially in math.
- U.S. districts showed an 11% drop in math scores due to heat.
- Lower-income students are more likely to attend schools with poor air conditioning.
- By 2050, a 1.5°C temperature rise could lead to a 9.8% drop in U.S. students' test scores if no adaptations are made.
- Adding air conditioning helps lessen heat’s negative impact on learning.
- U.S. schools need over $4.4 billion to upgrade cooling systems.
- Many students live in "urban heat zones," adding extra heat.
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