Norway bans AI use for elementary students, prioritizing reading and writing

Norway is implementing a significant policy shift, effectively prohibiting the use of generative artificial intelligence tools for students in elementary school, from grades 1 through 7. This new educational standard, set to take effect at the start of the new academic year in late August, also restricts usage for younger middle schoolers.

Students in grades 8 through 10 (ages 14-16) will be permitted to use AI tools, but only under the direct supervision of their teachers. For high school students, aged 17 to 19, the curriculum will focus on teaching them how to use AI appropriately, preparing them for future education and employment.

The Norwegian government's decision stems from concerns that AI tools may negatively impact students' core learning abilities. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre stated that AI use risks students skipping crucial educational steps, emphasizing that "the most important thing in school is learning to read, write, and count."

In line with this focus on foundational skills, the government also plans to propose legislation supporting increased use of physical books in classrooms. This move represents a partial reversal of Norway's earlier embrace of digital technology in education, which saw computers introduced in the 1990s and tablets become widespread after 2010, reducing reliance on traditional books and handwriting.

While many schools globally have grappled with regulating AI like ChatGPT, Norway's government-led, comprehensive guideline is a notable step. This follows Norway's earlier announcement in April to ban social media use for individuals under 16, mirroring a similar move by the Australian government.

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AI usage increases the risk of children skipping important steps in their education. The most important thing in school is learning to read, write, and count.