An Introduction to the Swedish School and Education System for Educators from Other Countries

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:

• demonstrate knowledge of the history of the preschool and school and the development of the teaching profession in Sweden
• demonstrate knowledge of the Swedish school and education system and its policy documents, as well as its political and legal governance
• demonstrate a certain level of knowledge of the grounds for the didactic choices made by preschool teachers and teachers
• demonstrate the ability to relate the core values given in the curriculum to the preschool and school as organisations
• discuss and reflect on the work in preschools and schools to counteract discrimination and abuse, and to promote gender equality and equal treatment
• discuss teachers’ and children‘s and pupils’ interaction in Swedish preschools and schools based on theoretical perspectives on social relations
• explain various theories and models for the prevention and management of conflict
• discuss and reflect on the different aspects of pedagogical leadership

The course is intended for those who have a background in the field of education who are interested in working in Swedish preschools and schools as members of teaching support staff who can serve as a link between teachers and children and pupils whose mother tongue is not Swedish.

The course has two main thematic components: one, The Swedish School System; and two, Teachers’ Roles, Leadership and Social Relations.

The Swedish School System

• the core values of the Swedish school system
• the organisation of the Swedish school system
• policy documents and regulations
• the development of the Swedish school and education system, and the structure of Swedish society since the 1950s

Teachers’ Roles, Leadership and Social Relations

• the role of the preschool teacher, teacher or teaching assistant, and similar pedagogical roles
• norm-critical pedagogy, norms, and power orders
• conflict management
• pedagogical leadership, and children‘s and pupils’ involvement and rights

• The course is assessed through the presentation and discussion of seminar assignments as well as through written assignments.

The grading scale used for the final course grade is U–G.

Grades are reported as follows:

• An Introduction to the Swedish School and Education System for Educators from Other Countries - 7.5 Credits | U–G

• Rate of Study 50%, daytime. All teaching is online. The course includes a field study.
• Coursework consists of reading course literature, attending seminars and lectures, and completing assignments and practical exercises. Where possible, participants should visit schools as part of the course.
• The language of instruction is for the most part English; however, some components may be taught in Swedish.
• The course includes scheduled teaching time when the participants meet for teacher-led instruction online. In addition, the course includes structured small-group work, which is also online.