The Finnish education system is renowned as one of the best in the world. Moreover, Finnish students are also among the happiest in the world. So what is it about the education system in Finland that makes it so successful?
After all, Finland doesn’t spend more on education than other high-income countries, yet their students rank among the best in PISA (Program for International Student Assessment) tests. Finland also prides itself in having various online information sources one of which is Bonuskoodit.com, an information source on casinos.
The secret to the success of the Finnish education system lies in high-quality teacher education and humble governance principles. Here's how the education system came to be.
The history of the Finnish education system
The actual transformation of the education system in Finland began somewhat 40 years ago. It wasn't until 2000 that the Finns realized just how successful they are in reforming their education system.
From 2000, when Finland became the best overall performing country in Europe, their performance in the PISA tests have shown direct evidence of the quality of their education. Here are a few of the most prominent features of the Finnish education system.
- There are no tuition fees. Education is completely free from early childhood to university education.
- There are no standardized mandated tests. Students in Finland are not ranked, compared or forced to compete in any way.
- Finnish schools are publicly funded. Students from every economic background are mixed together and there are no elite schools. Parents of rich students are, therefore, encouraged to invest in schools and the overall education system.
- Every school has the same national goals. The difference between weak and strong students is minimal and everyone has the same shot at higher education. That’s why 93% of Finns graduate from university.
How the Finns have reformed their education system
After World War II, Finland had its ups and downs regarding public education. Various political interests competed about what the education system should look like. Despite different ideologies, Finland finally reached consensus and the so-called New Basic School System was created.
This system allowed every student to enroll into the public school system regardless of background or personal interests. The system was further developed based on problem-solving principles.
Local curricula are based on the national curriculum, but each school takes locality into account. This gives schools and teachers autonomy to provide education to their respective students as they see fit.
The Finns have also implemented feedback mechanisms that allow them to monitor the overall performance of the education system to review and adapt it further. The national curriculum is regularly revised to fit changes in the society.
Closing Words
Finland reformed its education system based on national needs. Today, Finnish students are among the best-performing and happiest students not just in Europe, but in the entire world.
This article was written in cooperation with Good Luck Media LTD