Malmö, Sweden — Known for its advanced use of digital technology, Sweden plans to ban mobile phones in schools starting in the fall of the next academic year. This decision is part of a broader international movement to reduce screen use in classrooms.
Since 2023, Sweden’s center-right coalition government has been pushing for more traditional learning. The focus is on increasing reading time and reducing screen exposure, especially in preschools. Joar Forsell, chair of the Swedish parliament’s education committee, stated that a decline in literacy skills among younger students prompted the policy change. “We’re reducing screen use because books and traditional learning methods are better for students,” Forsell explained.
Globally, there is a shift to reassess the role of smartphones in education. This trend follows widespread adoption of technology in schools, such as laptops, tablets, and learning apps. Now, many parents, educators, and school districts advocate for limiting digital tools. Denmark and Finland have taken steps similar to Sweden by restricting mobile devices in schools.
In the United States, the Los Angeles Unified School District will reduce screen use up to second grade. There will be daily limits on screen time, restrictions on YouTube, and a review of educational technology contracts.
Reducing Digital Distractions
While Sweden is home to technology giants like Spotify and Ericsson, the phone ban aims to minimize distractions in schools. The government allocated 555 million Swedish krona (approximately $59 million) to purchase textbooks and teachers’ guides, reacting to decreasing reading levels. In 2022, a study by the OECD revealed that 24.3% of Swedish ninth graders did not achieve basic reading comprehension. This is slightly better than the EU average of 26.2%.
Associate Professor Magnus Haake from Lund University says that learning with physical materials stimulates the motor sensory areas in students’ brains, enhancing overall learning.
Outside of schools, Sweden’s public health agency advises parents to create ‘screen-free zones’ at home to set an example for their children.
Implementation in Schools
At Malmö Borgarskola High School, phones are banned during classes. Students deposit their devices into a ‘Mobile Hotel’ box and retrieve them after class. Student Melina Sallahi noted, “Phones are always distracting.” Fellow student Vasilije Stjepanovic added that removing phones helps students concentrate better on learning.
Despite receiving laptops, students are discouraged from using them in class without teacher approval. Deputy Headmaster Patrik Sander noted, “We’ve learned that using pencils and writing by hand improves memory.”
Since last summer, nondigital materials have been encouraged for children under two, and preschoolers have no digital requirements. A focus on book-based curricula is expected by 2028.
Debate Over Digital Learning
Despite the shift, some oppose reducing digital learning. The Swedish Edtech Industry report warns that 90% of future jobs will need digital skills. Lack of digital literacy could lead to skill shortages and increased unemployment in Sweden.
Imvi Labs CEO Peter Carlsson argues that not all screens hinder learning and some are vital for students with learning difficulties. “Good tools can make teaching more effective,” Carlsson said.
However, in Malmö Borgarskola, there’s little concern about digital skills. Students use digital devices in their free time, and Melina Sallahi emphasized, “Digital skills aren’t a big worry.” Classmate Aslan Özhan Kilicasan also remarked, “We learn more easily with books.”