Pedagogical research in the United States has greatly influenced the methods by which research on curriculum and teaching has been carried out in Scandinavian countries. The predominant view on how to conduct scientific research in pedagogics has always been based on the positivist philosophy of science. In the late 1960s, however, criticism…

This paper focuses on the changes in power and control relations in the Swedish society as they relate to issues of curriculum theory and research. Two issues in particular are discussed: (1) why Marxist research is still necessary and to what purpose; and (2) some current taks and problems for Marxist research on curriculum and schooling. (SI)

Process oriented educational research has failed because it has relied too heavily on scientific method and has neglected "unscientific" but important questions. Educational research should study the society and how social forces influence teaching practices. Teachers can not be expected to change at will. They are constrained by pre-existing…

In this presentation, the authors attempt to approach the field of curriculum theory, development, innovation, and planning from the perspective of the basic principles of pedagogics. The authors use Sweden's development of a comprehensive school system as a case study of curriculum planning and development. This case study serves as an…

This essay outlines the major changes in Swedish educational policy that occurred during the 20-year period from 1976 to 1996, with a focus on key issues in the development of the comprehensive school. Effects of the policy changes on Swedish curriculum research over the last 20 years are examined. Educational researchers neglected or were slow to…