Finland - Strong Performers and Successful Reformers in Education

EduSkills OECD・2 minutes read

Finland prioritizes equal opportunities in education, with a decentralized system, highly trained teachers, and an emphasis on early intervention to support students and prevent academic challenges. Teachers in Finland hold master's degrees, are selected from top students, and undergo thorough training combining theory and practical experience.

Insights

  • Finland prioritizes equal opportunities in education, restructuring its system to focus on decentralization and empowering highly trained teachers with autonomy and responsibilities.
  • The Finnish education system stands out for its emphasis on teacher quality, with all educators holding master's degrees, undergoing rigorous training that combines theory and practice, and being selected from the top students, showcasing a commitment to providing high-quality education.

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Recent questions

  • How does Finland approach education equality?

    Finland focuses on providing equal opportunities in education for all, regardless of background or gender. The country believes in ensuring that every student has access to quality education, regardless of their socio-economic status or gender. This commitment to equality is reflected in the restructuring of the Basic Education system and the emphasis on providing support to students who may face academic challenges.

  • What is the role of teachers in Finland?

    Highly trained teachers in Finland are given significant autonomy and responsibilities in schools. Teachers in Finland are respected professionals who have the freedom to design their curriculum and teaching methods. This autonomy allows teachers to cater to the individual needs of their students and create a supportive learning environment.

  • How are teachers trained in Finland?

    All teachers in Finland hold a master's degree and undergo rigorous training to ensure high-quality education. Teacher training in Finland involves a year of subject-specific training, alternating between theory and practical experience. This comprehensive training program ensures that teachers are well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of their students and deliver effective instruction.

  • Who runs schools in Finland?

    Municipalities run schools in Finland, following national legislation and core curricula. This decentralized approach to education allows for local communities to have a say in the management of schools while ensuring that all students receive a standardized education based on national guidelines.

  • Why is teaching a popular profession in Finland?

    Teaching is a popular and respected profession in Finland, attracting young people due to its intellectual appeal. The emphasis on autonomy, responsibility, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on students' lives make teaching an attractive career choice in Finland. Additionally, the high standards for teacher training and the value placed on education in Finnish society contribute to the profession's popularity.

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Summary

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Finland's Equal Education Opportunity System

  • Finland focuses on providing equal opportunities in education for all, regardless of background or gender.
  • The country restructured its Basic Education system in the 1970s, moving towards decentralization in the 1980s and 1990s.
  • Highly trained teachers in Finland are given significant autonomy and responsibilities in schools.
  • Municipalities run schools in Finland, following national legislation and core curricula.
  • Teaching is a popular and respected profession in Finland, attracting young people due to its intellectual appeal.
  • All teachers in Finland hold a master's degree, selected from the best students, ensuring high-quality education.
  • Teacher training in Finland involves a year of subject-specific training, alternating between theory and practical experience.
  • Finland invests heavily in educational research, allowing for the development of policies, teaching practices, and materials.
  • Finland emphasizes early detection of student difficulties, intervening proactively to provide support and prevent academic challenges.
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