Most Norwegian public schools adopt mobile phone restrictions

A recent survey titled "Questions for Schools in Norway" reveals that over 96 percent of primary schools in Norway have implemented restrictions on mobile phone use, Norway's Ministry of Education announced on Tuesday, reported Xinhua.

A recent recommendation to ban mobile phones from classrooms issued by the Norwegian Directorate of Education aims to foster a better school environment by reducing distractions and enhancing learning.

Besides primary schools, the survey showed that 64 percent of secondary schools have incorporated mobile phone and smartwatch restrictions into their school's code of conduct.

Minister of Education Kari Nessa Nordtun said she is very pleased with the mobile phone ban in Norwegian schools. "The initial feedback suggests that these recommendations are having very positive effects. Almost every day, I hear stories about increased togetherness, more physical activity, and improved concentration," she said.

Earlier this year, the minister tasked the Directorate of Education with exploring potential regulation of mobile phone use in schools. In February, the directorate issued guidelines strongly advising schools to limit mobile phone access during school hours, extending these restrictions to recess in both primary and secondary schools.

"I am concerned about the decline in concentration and learning outcomes in Norwegian schools in recent years. While banning mobile phones is just one of many important measures we must take, our ultimate goal is to help students learn more effectively," Nordtun added.

Even before the Directorate of Education's national recommendations, several schools had already implemented various mobile phone restrictions. Following the recommendations, several municipalities, including the capital Oslo, have revised their rules to align with the new guidelines. Many private schools have also integrated mobile phone restrictions into their regulations.