In Finland, the idea of endless work without play is almost laughable—especially in their schools. Here, children are not just getting by; they are flourishing, contributing to Finland’s status as one of the top-performing educational systems globally.
So, what’s their secret? If you examine the U.S. education system closely, you might just want to toss it out the window. Finland’s approach is essentially the opposite of what we see here.
Starting Education Later
First off, formal education in Finland doesn’t start until age 7. You might think this sounds outrageous, raising questions about daycare costs for parents. But they have a solution: every Finnish citizen enjoys free childcare and education, allowing kids to develop social skills and just be kids. The quality of preschools is impressive, with all teachers holding bachelor’s degrees. In contrast, many U.S. children lack access to preschool, and those that do often face uneven quality and high costs, which can leave poorer families in a bind.
Shorter School Days
School days in Finland are generally shorter, averaging just five hours. Rather than following a rigid subject-based schedule, lessons are interdisciplinary, allowing multiple topics to be integrated into a single class. For instance, students might explore math through science or learn a subject in a foreign language. This method not only covers more ground but also keeps kids engaged—far less repetitive than the U.S. system.
Less Homework
And don’t assume that shorter school days mean more homework. Finnish students are assigned less than three hours of homework weekly. While U.S. kids often begin reading in kindergarten—regardless of their initial skills—Finnish children typically don’t start reading until they’re 7 or 8.
No Standardized Testing
Another notable difference? No standardized testing in Finnish schools. The focus is on fostering a love for learning rather than coercing students to memorize information for a test. This approach diminishes the need for Scantron sheets.
The Importance of Teachers
Perhaps the most significant factor in Finland’s success is its teachers. Their training, work environment, and compensation stand in stark contrast to the U.S. system, where educators often feel overwhelmed and undervalued. Teaching is a prestigious profession in Finland, with only 1 in 10 applicants being accepted into teaching programs. Rather than working alone, teachers collaborate frequently, and their competitive salaries reflect the high regard in which they are held. If we want to cultivate future leaders, we need to ensure they are taught by the best, which starts with fair compensation.
Adopting Finnish Practices
These elements of Finland’s educational philosophy are neither radical nor unattainable. By examining and potentially adopting some of these practices, we could significantly enhance the educational experience in the United States—there’s certainly ample room for improvement.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, Finland’s educational system provides valuable insights that could reshape how we approach education in the U.S., emphasizing play, teacher well-being, and a love for learning.