Läskulturer. Lärare, elever och litteraturläsning i grundskolans mellanår

Sammanfattning: This dissertation explores the teaching of literature in Swedish compulsory school. The aim of the study is to elucidate different approaches to literature instruction in upper elementary school (grades 4-6, pupils aged 10-13). The research questions focus on what goals and ideas about literature and reading guide teachers and how these are carried out in pedagogical practice and classroom activities. Three overlapping school ethnographic case studies were conducted in four Swedish compulsory schools during a period of four years. The empirical material was collected mainly through direct observations and interviews with teachers and pupils, but also comprises local policy documents directing education policy and pupils? written materials. A number of classroom episodes and settings are described, interleaved by portraits and presentations of teachers? and pupils? conceptions and attitudes regar-ding literature, reading and schooling. The description yields a varied picture. The analysis concentrates on teachers? conception of literature, their expressed view of the teaching of Swedish and the literature as well as reading experiences pupils are invited to have in the classrooms. A conclusion that follows from the study is that traditional focus on skills-oriented teaching models with a focus on basic literacy dominates the reading cultu-res. Approaches that aim at more thoughtful literacy characterized by the ability to read, write and think in more complex and critical ways are rare. The outcome of the study indicates that historical reproduction as well as con-temporary demands on basic reading skill achievement not only has a strong impact on schools? reading cultures but also raises questions about educational reform activities such as further teacher education.