Korea has no shortage of rags-to-riches stories, many of which are about rural students coming to Seoul, going to prestigious universities and becoming a doctor or lawyer. But now we have more diverse ways toward success. One can have as many chances as one wants to enjoy life through various careers. The free semester is a system to help students pursue their dreams, develop a career path and grow into the creative, competent talent of the future.

Ireland, Britain and Denmark have carried out a policy close to the free semester for years. This policy does not focus only on students’ competition for college entrance. Instead, it gives students more time to have various social experiences such as volunteering and experiencing different jobs. This allows students to seriously consider and prepare for the future.

The free semester will be implemented for middle school students as follows:

First, it will relieve the burden on students by eliminating written tests. Currently, the purpose of studying is for a test. During the free semester, they can enjoy studying rather than being under the pressure of memorization-oriented study or a recorded test. It does not mean that there is no assessment. The free semester emphasizes students’ development process by evaluating them through a portfolio and presentations of their work.

Second, through the free semester, classes will be student-led and participation-oriented. Students will not be passive learners anymore but will lead their own learning. They can participate in the class through discussions and project activities.

They may join various club activities and optional programs according to their preference in and outside school. The programs in school will be the main focus, but students will have the chance to experience different jobs outside school.

Third, the organization and management of the curriculum will be flexible and open to give students various options for programs or activities. Each school may have their own curriculum such as exploring careers, clubs, art and physical activities.

Some instructors from public institutions or companies, including school teachers, will participate in these programs so students may have various learning experiences. Schools will be open places and every institutional field will have the chance to contribute to the education of middle school students and social development.

The free semester gives students a chance to discover their dreams and talents. Also, it helps students have an open mind. Our students need to have big dreams and the program will play a very important role in this process.

By Shin Chol-kyun

The writer is a research fellow at the Korean Educational Development Institute. ― Ed.