Acknowledgements
I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to all those who have provided their generous help
to make this essay a better one.
Among them, I particularly wish to show my gratitude to my supervisor Jane Mattisson, who has
helped me overcome many difficulties systematically and offered me constructive comments and
valuable advice at every stage of the writing process. I am deeply grateful to her for sharing her
knowledge and time, for being so patient with my questions. The research in this essay would not
have been possible without her help.
My heartfelt thanks also go to Anna Ekström and Teri Schamp-Bjerede for their instructive
suggestions in Module A and Module B respectively.
Additionally, special thanks should go to the candidates and teachers participating in the study
for the time and effort put into providing information and in personal extensive contacts.
Last but not least, I am indebted to my family and classmates for their continuous support and
encouragement.