Sweden's new school policy: No mobile phones, more books for ‘better’ learning

Sweden will enforce a nationwide ban on mobile phones in schools beginning the next academic year, marking a shift away from digital learning tools. The policy follows concerns over declining reading and writing abilities, particularly among younger students, with 24.3% of Swedish ninth graders failing to meet basic reading comprehension standards in the 2022 OECD assessment. The move aligns with a broader Nordic trend, as Denmark is set to implement a similar ban and Finland already restricts mobile devices in schools. The Swedish government, led by the center-right coalition, has prioritized traditional learning methods, including increased reading time and reduced screen exposure. Lawmaker Joar Forsell, chair of the education committee, cited research showing that books and traditional teaching methods benefit children more than digital alternatives. The policy builds on existing restrictions in many Swedish schools, where phones have already been limited independently. To support the transition, the government allocated 555 million Swedish krona ($59 million) this year for purchasing textbooks and teacher guides. The funding aims to create learning environments with fewer distractions, fostering better focus and comprehension. The decision reflects a global reconsideration of screen use in education, with countries like Spain and South Korea also introducing restrictions. Sweden’s reversal is notable given its reputation as a leader in digital education, home to tech giants like Spotify and Ericsson. However, officials argue that excessive screen time has contributed to declining literacy, prompting the shift. The policy will apply to all schools nationwide, reinforcing a structured approach to reducing digital distractions in classrooms.