Children's experiences of the first year of primary school

This article describes a study with first grade children and their views on the primary school curriculum, as well as their influence on decision-making in school. The study was conducted with 20 six- and seven-year-old children in one primary school in Reykjavik, Iceland. The data gathered includes varied research methods such as group interviews, children's photographs and children's drawings to elicit the children's perspectives and opinions. Findings indicated that most of the children saw reading and mathematics as the main function of the first grade curriculum and the main role of the teachers is to teach these subjects. There were individual differences among the children in regards to their likes and dislikes in school. However, many children mentioned free time, recess and playing with other children as the most enjoyable part of school, while reading and mathematics were singled out as the most difficult and boring parts. The participating children did not experience democracy in school and did not find that they had any influence on the school curriculum.