07/30/2026
Sweden, once a global leader in digitalized classrooms, is reversing course on its educational technology initiatives. Concerned that overreliance on digital tablets and screens has weakened reading comprehension and foundational writing skills, Swedish education officials are reinvesting in traditional printed textbooks.
The policy shift began in 2023 after international reading assessment scores declined between 2016 and 2021. Swedish fourth graders' scores fell from an average of 555 to 544 points during that period, prompting government action. The national strategy now includes phasing out digital devices entirely for children under age 6 and allocating over 2 billion kronor ($200 million USD) for physical books and teaching materials.
This reversal reflects growing scientific evidence that screen-based learning impairs rather than enhances student comprehension. Swedish schools nationwide are returning to silent reading time, handwriting practice, and printed materials as core learning tools.
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Source: Swedish Ministry of Education. (2023–2026). Digital device reduction policy and textbook investment initiative.