| Summary: | This study examines the adult Swedish language education for immigrants, SFI, as a system with functions in the Swedish society. The practical teaching of the Swedish language is lifted out and the remaining knowledge is studied. The aim is to apply a system theoretical approach in order to describe how SFI has different functions in society and furthermore, how the knowledge SFI mediates also have functions. Parsons’ system theory serves as the theoretical foundation for this study, but a perspective of stereotypes as well as infantilization broadens the study. The empirical material which this study is based on is gathered through 13 classroom observations and six interviews. The material shows that SFI has the functions to inform, affect, prepare and prevent immigrants in different ways. It concerns matters such as democratic and equal values, medical care, dental care and the tax system. All these functions aim to change the behaviors and thoughts of immigrants so that their behaviors and thoughts better correspond with those of other members of the Swedish society. Noticed and addressed is that these functions appear to have somewhat stereotyping and infantilizing consequences. Thus, SFI as an institution plays a significant part in the integration process of immigrants.
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