Artificial Intelligence Banned for Younger Elementary School Students in Norway
Norway has decided to significantly change its approach to artificial intelligence in schools, effectively banning its use for younger students and imposing strict restrictions for middle school students. Authorities cite declining academic performance and the risk that children are losing basic skills due to excessive reliance on technology.
The Norwegian government’s decision effectively divides the school system into several levels of access to artificial intelligence, each with its own restrictions based on age and educational objectives. Students in grades 1 through 7—that is, children approximately 6 to 13 years old—are generally not allowed to use generative AI during class, as this is the period when basic literacy, logical thinking, and independent work skills are developed. In grades 8–10, where students are older and better prepared, the use of such tools is permitted, but only under the supervision of teachers, who must monitor the process and explain exactly how these technologies work.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gar Støre explained that the decision stems from a concern for the quality of education and overall academic performance. He explicitly noted that excessive and uncritical use of generative artificial intelligence can lead to students skipping important stages of learning, failing to develop basic skills, and relying on technology too early instead of thinking for themselves. Separately, the government emphasizes that Norway has seen a decline in academic performance in recent years, and the new rules are intended to partially reverse this trend.
“The uncritical use of generative AI in schools increases the risk of students missing important stages of learning. At the same time, student performance and skills in Norwegian schools are declining. We are taking steps to change this. That is why we are now introducing clear guidelines regarding artificial intelligence in schools,” the prime minister stated.
It is specifically emphasized that simply imposing bans or granting permissions is not enough to implement the new rules, as teachers must be prepared to work with such tools in the educational process. That is why the Norwegian Directorate for Education will be responsible for training teachers and monitoring their competence in the use of AI, to ensure that learning remains safe and effective.
At the same time, virtually no restrictions are being imposed on high school students, as the government believes they should already be learning to work with technologies that are actively used in the modern world. The government emphasizes that artificial intelligence is part of the future of education and the labor market, but its use must be deliberate and should not replace the learning process itself. This is stated in a government resolution.
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