läsvecka

Läsvecka refers to a period in Sweden where students traditionally did not have any school assignments or exams, allowing them to use the time for self-directed learning and reading. This concept used to be a part of the country's educational system, particularly in the lower levels of secondary education.

Historically, the origins of läsvecka can be traced back to the 1950s when Swedish schools adopted a more relaxed approach to education, focusing on developing students' interests and individual study skills. At that time, students would receive a "lessons-free" time for 10 to 14 days, enabling them to sharpen their reading and writing skills without the burden of assignments or tests.

Läsvecka served several purposes. Firstly, it helped reduce pressure and stress on students, allowing them to enjoy reading and exploring subjects without the constraints of assignments. Secondly, it facilitated students to develop their time management and organization skills. Furthermore, läsvecka encouraged students to take control of their learning process, exploring topics and subjects of interest to them.

While läsvecka had a theoretical purpose, its actual implementation significantly varied between schools, and its application gradually diminished over time. In 2011, the Swedish Ministry of Education announced plans to abolish the concept, citing concerns about unequal implementation and inconsistencies between schools. By 2012, Sweden had eliminated the concept of läsvecka from its school curriculum.