Traditional Education in the Age of AI

Paper books "reign"

While friends in many countries around the world are learning to get used to technology devices, Liveon Palmer, 9 years old, a student at Djurgardsskolan Primary School (Stockholm, Sweden) practices writing beautifully every day.

For Palmer, and Swedish students in general, traditional subjects show no signs of being replaced by modern educational methods. “I like to practice handwriting because writing on paper feels more comfortable. So I really like traditional lessons,” Liveon Palmer said.

As the world witnesses the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology, an interesting trend has emerged in Sweden: Students in this country are gradually returning to traditional learning methods. This is a remarkable choice when most other countries are actively integrating technology into education.

Swedish schools are prioritizing traditional teaching methods, which focus on learning through paper books, handwriting, and face-to-face discussions. Instead of using online learning tools or AI-assisted applications, students are encouraged to read paper books, take notes by hand, and participate in interactive lessons with teachers.

Some schools have reduced the amount of time spent on computers and electronic devices in the classroom, only using them when absolutely necessary. This is to ensure that students do not become overly dependent on technology and instead develop critical thinking and communication skills.

Recent studies have shown that the overuse of technology in education can reduce students’ ability to concentrate and think independently. Therefore, by deciding to adjust the traditional learning model, the Swedish government wants to reduce the negative impacts, especially when students are increasingly dependent on AI applications to do homework or look up information.

The decision has received support from teachers and parents, who say that face-to-face learning, through interactions between teachers and students, plays an important role in building social and emotional skills. While AI can help personalize learning, it cannot completely replace the human element in the educational process.

Ms. Catarina Branelius - a third grade teacher at Djurgardsskolan Primary School said that she guides students to use tablets appropriately and selectively instead of using them all the time.

“When I teach Math, I create games on tablets to help students get used to calculation skills. But when it comes to Language, I don’t use computers to teach students how to write. Students under 10 need time to practice handwriting before they use a keyboard,” said Catarina.

Another factor driving the trend is privacy concerns. AI applications often collect user data, and their use in education could lead to students’ personal information being misused or leaked.

The return to traditional schooling has brought about significant changes in the Swedish education system and the lives of students.

First, students’ basic skills improve. Teachers have noticed that students’ handwriting is better and their reading comprehension is significantly improved when they learn from paper books instead of electronic screens. These skills are not only important for learning, but also help students develop logical and organized thinking.

Second, students are less stressed and pressured. They feel more comfortable without the pressure of technological tools or high expectations about using AI. Instead, they focus on understanding the lesson and developing themselves naturally.

Finally, face-to-face learning allows teachers to better understand each student and tailor their teaching methods accordingly. Students also have the opportunity to interact, discuss, and receive immediate feedback from teachers, something that technology cannot completely replace.

Learn from nature

In Canada, schools are actively collaborating with nature and community organizations to organize field trips for students. This activity is part of the curriculum, but schools are increasing the number of field trips instead of letting students use technology too much.

For example, Lakehead University and the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto, Canada, are organizing field trips in the woods for high school students across the country.

The curriculum not only helps students better understand the environment and climate change, but also helps them feel closer and more connected to nature. This need is especially important in the context of technology development, causing teenagers to spend more time “online”.

During an outdoor lesson in Ontario, kindergarten teacher Wilma Armstrong takes her students on a “forest bathing” trip outdoors. They immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest while observing and observing the nature around them.

“Every time I announce that they are going to the forest, the children’s eyes light up with joy. They cheer every time they discover a new plant and share it with their friends. I hope these small activities will help them love the environment, nature and appreciate real values,” said Ms. Armstrong.

In the context of AI and digital technology changing global education, a traditional but innovative educational model is attracting attention. That is outdoor schools. This trend is not only appearing in developed countries such as Sweden, Germany, or the US, but also spreading to many other countries in the world. The development of outdoor schools in the context of strong AI development has brought new perspectives on education and the future of the young generation.

Forest schools, found in many Western countries, are an educational model where students learn primarily in natural spaces, rather than in traditional classrooms. Learning activities often include exploring the natural environment, practicing survival skills, and participating in outdoor group projects. Teachers act as guides, helping students connect with nature and learn through hands-on experiences.

The explosion of technology and AI is causing countries to question the role of humans in an automated world. In this context, outdoor schools appear as a solution to balance technology and core human values, while providing opportunities for students to take a break from screens, immerse themselves in nature and develop their thinking through real-life experiences.

Reshaping education

Many studies have shown that outdoor activities help reduce stress, improve mental health and increase concentration. This is especially important in the context of today's students being easily affected by academic pressure and negative factors from social media.

One of the most prominent examples is the outdoor school system in Norway and the UK. Here, students spend most of their day outdoors, regardless of the weather. They learn how to care for plants, observe wildlife, and practice practical skills such as pitching a tent or cooking outdoors. Teachers in Sweden have noted that students not only improve academically, but also become more confident, independent, and creative.

In the US, a school famous for this model is Treetop Nature School in Oregon. Students experience ecology classes, explore local flora and fauna, and learn about protecting the environment. Alexander Philips shared: “I feel like I learn more when I am in nature. I not only understand the book but also feel the true meaning of living in harmony with the environment.”

For students, outdoor school is an opportunity for them to develop comprehensively in terms of physical, mental and social skills. Besides, it enhances creativity and critical thinking through practical activities. Finally, it reduces stress and improves mental health, especially in the context of increasing pressure from technology and social networks.

For the education sector, the outdoor education model will promote experiential learning methods, complementing online learning and AI-based learning models. In addition, it creates a learning environment that balances technology and nature, helping students not to be too dependent on machines.

For society, outdoor education contributes to raising awareness of environmental protection. This model also equips the young generation with soft skills and sustainable thinking, suitable for a volatile future.

Outdoor schools are not only a response to the rise of AI, but also a reminder of the importance of connecting people with nature. In the digital age, this model offers a holistic approach that helps students develop comprehensively and prepare them for the challenges of the 21st century. This is not just a trend, but also an important step forward in reshaping education.