Non-compulsory schools in Sweden should make use of the knowledge and experience that is available in society according to the aims and objectives of the Curriculum for the Non-Compulsory School System - Lpf 94. There are however only a few studies which have focused on the contacts between non-compulsory schools and society as represented by the business world in Sweden.

The purpose of this study is to examine in what ways and to what extent non-compulsory schools are following the Curriculum by using the knowledge and experience of the business world. The perspectives have been: Which contacts in the business world and which working practices from the business world are implemented in teaching in non-compulsory schools? In what way do these contacts and working practices affect the teaching and learning of business administration? The purpose of this study is also to examine if the teachers in non-compulsory schools use business information and different kinds of business knowledge and experiences in order to keep themselves up-to-date regarding the business world. The perspectives have been: Are the teachers using up-to-date business information or business experience? Are the teachers applying a multicultural perspective in teaching business studies? In what way does this kind of information or first-hand experience affect the teaching and learning of business administration?

The method used in this study was to interview seven teachers from two non-compulsory schools in Stockholm. The research showed that both schools use different kinds of business contacts, business experience and up-to-date business information as input in their teaching. Both schools are also using mini enterprise and work experience in teaching the pupils business administration. Only a few of the teachers have applied a multicultural perspective in their teaching. The research also showed that it will take time, resources and coordination to increase contacts with the business world. These contacts are essential for helping the pupils to achieve a degree of practical learning and knowledge which is mentioned in the Curriculum for the Non-Compulsory School System as well as being in demand in working life.