Test-free Semesters at Middle Schools

 

On May 28, the Ministry of Education (minister: Seo Nam Su) presented the test-free semester trial run plan which allows middle schools students to take one test-free semester dedicated to career exploration and an education system based on discussion and experience.

 

Test-free semesters aim to reduce the immense stress students experience from tests heavily dependent on memorization. This form of career education, a major goal of the Park Geun-hye administration, will allot students more time to reflect on their futures and partake in a wide variety of activities and experiences.

 

Test-free semester implementation plan:

 

● 2013 September and 2014 March, schools expected to participate in the trial run will execute test-free semester programs.

-          In September, 42 schools will implement the program to first year students in their second semesters

-          In 2014 March, 40 schools will implement to program to second year students in their first semesters.

● From 2014-2015, schools that wish to participate in the test-free semester program may do so.

● By 2016 March, all middle schools will implement the program.

 

The test-free semester enforcement plan includes details such as the target school year and semester and 연계방안 (?).

 

The ministry will guarantee preparation of necessary infrastructures such as institutions and education professionals so that the free-semester program becomes becomes successfully incorporated into the educational system.

 

This trial run plan is divided into two main programs:

1.      personalize lesson plans and curriculum individual schools and their needs

2.      building infrastructure for experience-based education