Norway will largely prevent primary school pupils from using artificial intelligence for schoolwork from the start of the next academic year. Older students will be allowed to experiment with AI gradually, provided that teachers have received sufficient training.
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The Norwegian government has instructed the Directorate for Education and Training to publish new national recommendations before schools reopen in the autumn. Under the guidelines, pupils in grades 1 to 7 should generally not be given access to AI tools.
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said children must first develop essential skills such as reading, writing and mathematics. According to the government, research suggests that the uncritical use of generative AI can cause students to skip important stages in the learning process.
The measures come amid concerns about falling educational standards in Norway. International studies including PISA and PIRLS have recorded significant declines in Norwegian pupils’ basic skills. The government says one in four pupils reads below the OECD’s minimum level for progressing to further education and employment.
“Before pupils start using AI, they must learn to read, write and calculate,” Education Minister Kari Nessa Nordtun said. She added that younger children often lack the knowledge, critical thinking skills and self-regulation needed to use the technology responsibly.
Students in grades 8 to 10 may be introduced to AI gradually and cautiously. Teachers must first acquire the necessary expertise before providing pupils with training and access. In upper secondary education, students should learn how to use AI appropriately in preparation for further study and employment.
Exceptions will remain possible for pupils who need AI-based tools as part of adapted education. The government said carefully selected applications could support learning in areas such as language teaching and personalised instruction.
The Directorate for Education and Training will also define the skills teachers need to use AI effectively in the classroom. The recommendations and available teacher-training programmes will be reviewed and updated as the technology and research continue to develop.
Sources and further reading on the topic of AI:
How AI can help us prevent future pandemics - (Universal-Sci)
This AI-Designed Roof Could Make Air Conditioners Obsolete - (Universal-Sci)
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