Norway introduces near-complete ban on AI in elementary schools

Norway is prohibiting the use of generative AI tools in elementary schools and restricting their use among older students, following a recent statement made by Norwegian prime minister Jonas Gahr Støre. The move comes on the back of concerns about the negative impact of AI on learning and is part of a broader effort to address falling test scores nationwide. In 2024, the Norwegian government banned smartphones in schools and gave teachers more powers to enforce classroom discipline.

The Norwegian government is planning an age-based approach: students from grades 1-7 (ages 6–13) will be banned from using AI, while those in lower secondary school (ages 14–16) will only use it sparingly and under teacher supervision. Upper secondary students (ages 17–19), by contrast, will be allowed to develop the AI skills necessary to prepare them for higher education and the workforce. Furthermore, increased government spending on the use of books in classrooms is also being considered as part of a move to counteract the trend towards screen technology.

Last but not least, the Norwegian government also intends to ban social media use among children under 16, following a trend pioneered by Australia and other nations aimed at curbing young people's use of electronic devices.