Impact of technology on learning: Sweden rediscovers the book

In 2009, the Suede launched an ambitious transformation of its education system by replacing printed books with digital tools such as computers and tablets. Fifteen years later, the country is reversing course by investing 104 million euros (approximately $108.2 million) in the reintroduction of printed books into classrooms for the period 2022-2025. This highlights the challenges of digitalizing education and lessons learned about the impact of technology on learning.

Sweden's initial decision in favor of digitalization was based on ambitious goals : modernize the education system and prepare students for a technological future. According to the Swedish government, the integration of digital tools made learning more accessible and engagingwhile reducing long-term costs by eliminating expenses associated with printed books.

However, this radical change has not been without challenges. Studies conducted by Macquarie University and published in Trends in Cognitive Science revealed that reading on digital screens can affect information retention and text comprehension. Additionally, many students, instead of concentrating on their lessons, got distracted by browsing the Internet or playing games. These behaviors not only harmed their academic performance, but also weakened their social skills and their concentration in class.

Another major problem was thephysical impact of prolonged use of electronic devices. Parents and teachers have noticed an increase in eyestrain among students, alongside a decline in fundamental skills such as reading and writing. “Excess time spent in front of screens affects both eyesight and the ability to concentrate on simple tasks”emphasized teachers during school performance evaluations.

This frustration was also manifested among parents, who noticed that electronic devices were often used for non-educational activitiesraising concerns about how much time children were spending on real learning. According to government reports, academic results have begun to reflect these shortcomings, leading the country to reassess the strategy adopted in 2009.

To counter the negative effects of digitalization, the Swedish government has invested significantly to ensure that every student has access to printed books in all subjects. This change aims to recover fundamental skillssuch as reading and writing, which had shown a clear deterioration.

Among the measures adopted, we also find awareness campaigns aimed at schools and families, aiming to highlight the importance of a balance between the use of digital tools and traditional methods. This transition does not mean completely abandoning technologiesbut rather to integrate them in a more strategic and controlled way. For example, electronic devices will continue to be used as additional tools to access online resources, but will not replace printed books.

Education leaders in Sweden said the change reflects an awareness of the mistakes made when implementing accelerated digitalization. “It's not about eliminating technology, but using it sensibly and with purpose”said the Swedish Ministry of Education in a press release.

Beyond academic aspects, this policy aims to resolve the deterioration of social and concentration skills observed among students. By reducing screen time and encouraging reading on paper, Sweden hopes to create a learning environment more balanced and effective.

Sweden's return to printed books is a warning to other countries that have adopted similar educational digitalization strategies without careful evaluation. Sweden demonstrates that technology, while valuable, cannot completely replace traditional methods without jeopardizing skills essential to student development.

The Swedish experience highlights the need to find a balance between innovation and tradition. Although digital tools offer unique benefits, such as rapid access to up-to-date information, their implementation requires a thoughtful and well-planned approach to avoid detrimental effects on learning. This case could inspire other education systems facing similar challenges, showing that it is possible to adapt education to the modern world without sacrificing quality or fundamental skills.

Sweden's decision to invest in printed books after a decade of massive digitalization highlights a crucial aspect: education must prioritize in-depth learning and integral training of studentsby integrating technology only where it brings real added value.