Norway Tightens AI Restrictions in Schools.. Only Specific Grades Allowed

Major education systems are moving to impose stricter restrictions on the use of generative artificial intelligence among young students, amid concerns that early reliance on these tools could undermine the development of reading, writing, arithmetic, and independent thinking skills.

In Norway, the government has recommended since June 2026 that students in grades one through seven should not be allowed to use generative AI for schoolwork in general, with its use to be introduced gradually and cautiously in higher grades under appropriate educational supervision.

Authorities emphasized that the priority is to protect foundational learning stages before expanding the use of technology.

In a similarly stringent move, New York City announced on September 2 the suspension of the use of generative AI applications targeted at students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade for one academic year, a decision affecting approximately 600,000 students.

The new policy allows for limited and carefully considered use of such technologies in high school, alongside awareness programs on the risks and benefits of AI. Teachers remain permitted to use approved tools for lesson planning and operational tasks.