A recent survey by the Norwegian Directorate for Education indicates that mobile phone use is being increasingly restricted in secondary schools across the country. Ninety-six percent of schools now have rules limiting students’ mobile phone access, while 37 percent also regulate smartwatch usage. The data, collected in spring 2026, reveals that a near-total ban on phones throughout the school day is rare, with only 1 percent of school leaders implementing such a policy. This aligns with the Directorate’s guidance, which does not recommend complete prohibitions. The restrictions aim to address concerns about distraction and focus in the classroom. The survey included responses from schools and local education authorities nationwide, providing a comprehensive overview of current practices.
