Back to textbooks: Denmark rolls back digital learning • FRANCE 24 English

Summary

Denmark has implemented a groundbreaking shift in its approach to digital use among youth, banning mobile phones in schools, youth centers, and sports clubs to combat growing concerns over screen time and its impact on mental health. Physical textbooks are making a comeback, and digital learning is now more supervised. This change, driven by alarming data on teenage phone usage and mental health, reflects a national wake-up call. Efforts are also underway to restrict social media access for under-15s, with a broader European movement supporting these measures.

Takeaways

• 😀 Denmark has implemented a nationwide rule where children must lock away their phones in school to reduce screen time during class.
• 😀 Physical textbooks are making a comeback in Denmark after years of digital learning, aimed at helping students focus better.
• 😀 The overuse of screens in classrooms has led to distractions, with students often using devices for games or social media instead of schoolwork.
• 😀 Computers are now used sparingly in Danish schools and only under close supervision to prevent distractions.
• 😀 A national focus on reducing screen time has gained traction in Denmark, as students and adults alike recognize the negative effects of excessive screen use on mental health.
• 😀 Teens in Denmark spend an average of 5.5 hours a day on their phones, contributing to worsening mental health, according to a children's well-being commission.
• 😀 The Danish government has introduced a 'digital sobriety' approach, banning phones not only in schools but also in youth centers and sports clubs.
• 😀 In youth athletic clubs, phone use is prohibited even during competitions to ensure a focused and engaging environment.
• 😀 Many Danes, especially young people, are voluntarily reducing screen time by deleting social media apps or setting time limits for their use.
• 😀 A citizens initiative has gained significant support, calling for a ban on social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat for under-15s, with a potential parliamentary vote coming soon.

Q & A

Why has Denmark introduced a ban on mobile phones in schools?

Denmark introduced the mobile phone ban in schools as part of a broader effort to reduce screen time for students. The decision was triggered by alarming data showing that teens spend an average of 5.5 hours a day on their phones, which has negatively impacted their mental health and concentration in class.

What has been the impact of the shift from physical textbooks to digital learning in Denmark?

The shift from physical textbooks to digital learning led to challenges in student concentration. Students often found it easy to get distracted by other activities on their devices, such as playing video games during class. As a result, physical textbooks have made a comeback in schools.

What are some of the benefits students have experienced from reduced screen time?

Students have reported enjoying the balance between digital learning and physical books. Many find it less stressful not to be constantly exposed to screens, and some even expressed a greater love for reading and writing as a result of the reduced screen time.

How has the digital device ban extended beyond schools in Denmark?

The digital device ban has been implemented not only in schools but also in youth centers and sports clubs. Phones are prohibited even during competitions, creating opportunities for youth to engage more fully in physical and social activities without digital distractions.

What is the rationale behind banning phones in athletic clubs in Denmark?

In athletic clubs, the phone ban is designed to ensure that young people stay focused during practice and competitions. It helps prevent distractions, such as spending unnecessary time on their phones, which could take away from valuable practice time.

How have young people in Denmark reacted to the change in digital habits?

Many young people have embraced the change. Some have deleted social media apps or set daily limits for screen time. The awareness surrounding the issue has led to a shift in attitudes, with more youth opting for reduced screen time and a more balanced approach to technology.

What role has the Headspace Association played in Denmark’s digital health movement?

The Headspace Association supports over 11,000 young people annually and works with youth advisors to promote healthy screen time habits. The organization has also organized a national 'no phone day' to encourage adults to set examples for young people in managing screen time.

What are some of the national-level actions Denmark is taking to address digital health?

Denmark is taking significant steps to address digital health, such as introducing the mobile phone ban in schools and youth centers. Additionally, there is a growing movement to restrict social media access for minors, with a citizens' initiative calling for a ban on TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat for those under 15.

What is the aim of the citizens' initiative led by Imran Rashid in Denmark?

The citizens' initiative led by digital health expert Imran Rashid aims to ban social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat for individuals under the age of 15. This initiative reflects concerns about the negative impact of excessive screen time and social media use on youth mental health.

What broader international implications could Denmark’s digital health movement have?

Denmark's digital health movement, particularly its mobile phone and social media restrictions, could inspire other countries to adopt similar policies. The European Parliament is already backing a ban on social media access for under-16s across the EU, showing that Denmark's actions could have a wider influence on digital health practices in Europe.