Impact of learning technology: Sweden rediscovers the book

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

The initial decision of Sweden in favor of digitalization was based on ambitious objectives : 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 captivatingwhile reducing long -term costs by eliminating expenses related to printed books.

However, this radical change was not without challenges. Studies by Macquarie University and published in Trends in Cognitive Science revealed that Reading on digital screens can affect information retention and understanding of texts. In addition, many students, instead of focusing on their lessons, allowed themselves to be distracted by sailing on the internet or playing. These behaviors have not only harmed their academic performance, but also have weakens their social skills and their concentration in class.

Another major problem was thePhysical impact of prolonged use of electronic devices. Parents and teachers noted an increase in visual fatigue among students, in parallel with a deterioration of fundamental skills such as reading and writing. “Excess time spent in front of the screens affects both sight and the ability to focus on simple tasks”said teachers during school performance assessments.

This frustration was also manifested among parents, who have noticed that electronic devices were often used for non -educational activitiesarousing concerns about the time that children devoted to real learning. According to government reports, academic results began to reflect these shortcomings, which led the country to Revaluate the strategy adopted in 2009.

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

Among the measures adopted, there are also awareness campaigns Intended for schools and families, aimed at highlighting the importance of a balance between the use of digital tools and traditional methods. This transition does not mean to completely abandon 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.

Educational leaders in Sweden said that this change reflects an awareness of the errors made during the implementation of an accelerated digitalization. “It is not a question of deleting technology, but of using it in a sensible manner and with a goal”said the Swedish Ministry of Education in a statement.

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

The return of Sweden to printed books is a warning for other countries that have adopted similar school digitalization strategies without an in -depth assessment. Sweden shows that technology, although it is precious, cannot completely replace traditional methods Without jeopardizing essential skills in the development of students.

Swedish experience highlights the need to find a balance between innovation and tradition. Although digital tools offer unique advantages, such as quick access to updated information, their implementation requires a thoughtful and well planned approach to avoid harmful effects on learning. This case could inspire other education systems faced with 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 learning in depth and full training of studentsby integrating technology only where it brings real added value.