Norway bans AI for young students to protect foundational learning

Norway has announced new restrictions on artificial intelligence in schools. The move follows concerns about its impact on children’s learning. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre highlighted the risks of young pupils missing key educational steps. The government will ban AI use for students in grades 1 through 7. Older pupils will receive lessons on responsible AI use. In lower secondary education, AI tools may still be used, but only under strict supervision.

Støre stressed the need for children to master reading, writing, and arithmetic in school. He linked a decline in learning outcomes since around 2015 to smartphones, screens, and algorithms. Norway has already banned smartphones in schools and is now planning to ban social media for children under 16.

The new rules also require municipalities to provide physical teaching materials, such as books. Sweden’s 2024 research similarly found both opportunities and risks in AI’s effect on students’ learning. Norway is not the only country taking action, as Japan and the U.S. have also introduced restrictions on AI in education. The ban on AI for younger students will take effect under the new regulations. Schools will ensure physical materials remain available for teaching. The changes aim to protect foundational learning while preparing older students for a digital future.