Málaskjölum

Málaskjölum is an Icelandic term for institutions that specialize in teaching languages. In Iceland, these schools can be private language schools, language centers within universities or colleges, or municipal adult-education centers. They serve both residents learning new languages and foreigners studying Icelandic or other languages.

The word is a compound of mál ('language' or 'speech') and skóli ('school'), and is used in everyday Icelandic to refer to the setting in which language instruction takes place. Programs typically cover general language courses at various proficiency levels, Icelandic as a second language (for immigrants and international students), and instruction in foreign languages such as English, Danish, Spanish, or German. Many málaskjölum also offer exam preparation for international standards and CEFR levels, business-language programs, or children’s language classes.

Courses are commonly offered as evening classes, weekend workshops, or intensive short terms. They may be run by private organizations, university departments, or municipal authorities and can vary in duration from a few weeks to several months. The role of málaskjölum in Icelandic language education includes supporting adult education, complementing formal schooling, and facilitating language acquisition for migrants and travelers.

See also: language education in Iceland, Icelandic as a second language, CEFR. References: none.