I also have (not too recent) experience in schools, and feel, as a general impression that the public schools have too much of a "one size fits all" approach. Bright kids are effectively held in holding patterns, and slower students are given social promotions to the next grade. There are indications from some relatives that new technologies such as the internet, videos and computers are being applied in schools.

It is refreshing for me to see such a high-profile "welfare" state such as Sweden reexamining their assumptions and approaches.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/07/26/AR2008072601037.html

STOCKHOLM, Sweden --" Schools run by private enterprise? Free iPods and laptop computers to attract students?

It may sound out of place in Sweden, that paragon of taxpayer-funded cradle-to-grave welfare. But a sweeping reform of the school system has survived the critics and 16 years later is spreading and attracting interest abroad. "

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