TL;DRNorway is banning generative AI for ages 6-13 in schools from late August. Teens 14-16 need teacher supervision. The country already banned smartphones in 2024.
Norway will ban the use of generative AI tools by elementary school children starting from the new school year in late August, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre announced on Friday. The ban applies to students in first through seventh grade, covering ages six to 13, according to Reuters.
Støre said at a press conference that AI increases the risk of children skipping important steps in their education. “The most important thing in school is that our children learn to read, write and do mathematics,” he said.
The restrictions extend beyond elementary school but in a reduced form. Students aged 14 to 16 will be allowed to use generative AI only under a teacher’s direct supervision. Those 17 and older are encouraged to use AI tools appropriately on their own.
The 💜 of EU techThe latest rumblings from the EU tech scene, a story from our wise ol' founder Boris, and some questionable AI art. It's free, every week, in your inbox. Sign up now!Norway has form in removing technology from classrooms. The government banned smartphones from schools in 2024, a move that has produced measurable results. A study by researcher Sara Abrahamsson examining more than 400 Norwegian middle schools found that the ban led to reduced bullying, improved grades, and a roughly 60% drop in visits to psychology specialists, with the effects particularly pronounced among girls.
