Norway to ban AI tools in elementary schools

Norway is planning to impose a ban on the use of artificial intelligence in schools. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre announced a near-total ban on generative AI tools in elementary schools on Friday, in a move aimed at protecting children's foundational learning.

Støre said that relying on AI tools places young students at risk of skipping essential developmental steps. The new standards will take effect at the start of the next academic year, in late August 2026.

Part of wider education reforms

The announcement comes amid a broader decline in education test scores. The government banned smartphones from schools in 2024 and has since given teachers greater powers to enforce discipline in the classroom.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Stoere reiterated the risks posed by AI in early education. "The most important thing in school is that our children learn to read, write and do mathematics," he said, adding that the new standards will be imposed from the new school year beginning in late August.

Different rules by age group

Pupils from first through seventh grade, aged 6 to 13, should as a general rule not be using AI, while those in lower secondary school, aged 14 to 16, can cautiously adopt tools under teachers' supervision, the government said.

In upper secondary education, covering ages 17 to 19, students should learn to use AI appropriately so that they are prepared for further education and work, the government added.

A shift back towards books

Norway began adopting computers in classrooms in the 1990s, followed by tablets after the introduction of the iPad from 2010 onwards, a shift that reduced reliance on books and handwriting. In a related statement on Friday, the government said it will propose legislation to fund the increased use of books in classrooms, reversing the trend towards computer tablets.

Part of a broader pattern of restrictions

The Norwegian government also announced plans in April to ban children from using social media until they turn 16. The move follows a trend pioneered by Australia and other nations seeking to reduce young people's use of electronic devices.