Students in Skive Gymnasium embrace traditional note-taking as digital devices are banned

Students in the 2.Z class at Skive Gymnasium are experiencing a return to traditional note-taking methods. Gone are the days when laptops and smartphones dominated classrooms. A new screen policy has been introduced to encourage less screen time and more focus on learning and engagement.

Daniel Christensen, a student in 2.Z, expressed that handwriting notes motivates him to engage with the material more effectively, compared to the distractions presented by computers. “When you’re on a computer, there are always other things you can do,” he admits, appreciating the social benefits of writing by hand during group work. Classmate Emma Dalgaard Thomassen echoed his sentiments, noting that eliminating digital devices makes it easier to concentrate and interact with peers.

Initially, the rule applied only to first-year students, but now all students must leave their smartphones at a designated area at the classroom entrance. This shift aims to enhance attention and participation in discussions. Improvements have been observed in the classroom atmosphere, with increased student presence and engagement noted by teachers.

While some students find handwriting cumbersome, citing challenges in organizing notes, others recognize the benefits of reduced distractions and improved retention of information. According to Danish teacher Mette Gravgaard Ladefoged, the temptation to check social media has decreased, leading to a more focused learning environment.

Skive Gymnasium’s principal, Lars Erik Nielsen, emphasizes that while the school is not rejecting technology, it aims to use it more purposefully. He highlights that tools like artificial intelligence can still complement traditional methods, allowing students to digitize handwritten notes while ensuring they remain fully engaged during lessons. The school is working on creating a balanced approach to screen use that prioritizes effective learning strategies.