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Government pushes for analogue learning in schools
Sweden's right-wing coalition is rolling back digital tools in classrooms, replacing laptops and tablets with textbooks, paper, and pens to combat declining literacy rates. The policy has sparked debate over whether the move will help or hinder students' future job prospects.
From screens to binders
At a high school in Nacka, near Stockholm, students now carry books and printed materials alongside their laptops. Eighteen-year-old Sophie notes that one teacher has replaced digital texts with printed handouts, while math lessons have shifted from online platforms to traditional textbooks.
The government's slogan, "från skärm till pärm" ("from screen to binder"), reflects its push to reduce screen time, particularly for younger children. Since 2025, preschools are no longer required to use digital tools, and tablets are banned for children under two. A nationwide ban on mobile phones in schools-even for educational purposes-takes effect later this year.
Over 2.1 billion krona ($200 million) has been allocated to schools for textbooks and teacher guides, with a new curriculum mandating textbook-based learning set for 2028.
"Reading real books and writing on real paper is much better if you want kids to get the knowledge they need,"
Joar Forssell, Liberal Party education spokesperson
Debate over digital distractions and learning outcomes
The policy shift follows a 2023 consultation with researchers, educators, and public agencies. Neuroscientist Dr. Sissela Nutley of the Karolinska Institute warns that screens disrupt concentration and cites studies showing digital reading impairs information processing in children.
The government hopes the change will reverse Sweden's slide in the OECD's Pisa rankings. Once a top performer, Sweden's scores in math and reading fell sharply in 2022, with 24% of 15- and 16-year-olds failing to meet basic literacy standards.
Andreas Schleicher, the OECD's education director, cautions against blaming technology alone, noting Sweden's "extreme" adoption of devices lacked clear pedagogical goals. A January OECD report found digital distractions in Swedish classrooms correlated with lower math scores, though students using some digital tools still outperformed those using none.
Tech industry warns of economic risks
The policy has drawn criticism from Sweden's tech sector. A report by the Swedish Edtech Industry warns that reducing digital learning could leave students unprepared for future jobs, with 90% of EU roles expected to require digital skills.
Jannie Jeppesen, the association's CEO, argues the shift could drive tech companies-including Sweden's famed "unicorns" like Spotify and Legora-away if they can't find skilled workers. She also warns of a "digital divide," where wealthier families' children gain an advantage by learning AI tools at home.
"Everybody needs digital basic skills to enter the workforce,"
Jannie Jeppesen, Swedish Edtech Industry CEO
Students divided on digital vs. analogue learning
Opinions among Nacka's students are split. Eighteen-year-old Alexios supports the shift, saying younger siblings should use fewer digital tools to avoid losing focus. But 19-year-old Jasmine argues for more computer-based learning, noting, "The whole world is using computers."
Forssell rejects claims that the policy will widen inequality, insisting strong foundational skills are key to opportunity. Meanwhile, critics like Jeppesen call the government's stance "populistic," arguing it distracts from deeper issues like unequal school resources.
