“Finnish Lessons: What Can the World Learn from Educational Change in Finland?” – A Deep Dive into Finland’s Educational Success

by YOUxTalks | Aug 9, 2024 | Brain Book Blueprint

“Finnish Lessons: What Can the World Learn from Educational Change in Finland?” by Pasi Sahlberg is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding how Finland transformed its education system into one of the most successful in the world. Published in 2011, the book provides an in-depth analysis of the Finnish education model, which has consistently ranked at the top of international education comparisons such as the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA).

Pasi Sahlberg, a renowned Finnish educator and scholar, presents not just a narrative of Finland’s educational reforms but also a critique of the global education reform movement (GERM). He contrasts Finland’s approach with that of other countries, particularly those that have embraced standardization, high-stakes testing, and market-based reforms. The book offers valuable lessons for policymakers, educators, and anyone interested in improving education systems globally.

Key Insights from the Book

Equity over Excellence One of the core principles of the Finnish education system is its focus on equity rather than excellence. Sahlberg highlights that Finland’s educational reforms were not driven by a desire to top international rankings but by a commitment to provide equal opportunities for all students, regardless of their socioeconomic background. This focus on equity has led to a system where the gap between the highest and lowest performers is among the smallest in the world. The Finnish model emphasizes inclusive education, where students with diverse abilities and backgrounds learn together. Special education is integrated into the mainstream classroom, and teachers are trained to address the needs of all students. This approach contrasts sharply with the systems in many other countries, where students are often segregated based on ability.
Trust-Based Professionalism Another critical factor in Finland’s educational success is the high level of trust placed in teachers. Sahlberg explains that in Finland, teaching is a highly respected profession, and teachers are given significant autonomy in their classrooms. There is no national standardized testing regime, and teachers are trusted to assess their students’ progress using a variety of methods. Finnish teachers are required to have a master’s degree, and teacher education programs are rigorous, focusing on both subject knowledge and pedagogical skills. The profession attracts some of the best and brightest students, and once in the field, teachers are supported through ongoing professional development. This trust-based professionalism allows teachers to be innovative and responsive to their students’ needs, leading to a more personalized and effective learning experience.
Focus on Learning, Not Testing In stark contrast to the high-stakes testing culture prevalent in many countries, Finland places minimal emphasis on standardized testing. Sahlberg points out that there is no national testing for students under the age of 16. Instead, the focus is on formative assessment, where the primary goal is to support student learning rather than to rank or compare students. Finnish educators believe that learning is a process, and students should be encouraged to develop critical thinking skills, creativity, and a love for learning. The curriculum is broad and balanced, including not only core subjects like mathematics and languages but also arts, physical education, and life skills. This holistic approach ensures that students develop a well-rounded education, preparing them for life beyond school.
Strong Support Systems Sahlberg also emphasizes the importance of support systems within the Finnish education model. Schools in Finland are designed to be community centers, where students have access to a wide range of services, including health care, psychological support, and career counseling. These services are integrated into the school day, ensuring that all students receive the support they need to succeed. Additionally, the Finnish education system provides extensive early childhood education and care (ECEC), which is free or heavily subsidized. This early support helps to level the playing field for all children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The ECEC system in Finland is not just about preparing children for school; it focuses on the overall well-being and development of the child, fostering social, emotional, and cognitive growth.
Collaboration over Competition Sahlberg explains that the Finnish education system promotes collaboration rather than competition. Schools are not ranked against each other, and there is no competition for resources or prestige. Instead, schools work together, sharing best practices and supporting each other in a spirit of cooperation. This collaborative culture extends to the classroom, where students are encouraged to work together on projects and problem-solving tasks. The goal is to develop teamwork skills and a sense of community, rather than to foster individual competition. This approach not only enhances learning but also contributes to the development of a more cohesive and inclusive society.
Leadership and Policy Continuity A key factor in Finland’s educational success is the stability and continuity of its educational policies. Sahlberg notes that Finland has had a consistent vision for its education system, with long-term goals that transcend political changes. This continuity has allowed the country to implement and refine its educational reforms over several decades, leading to sustained improvement in student outcomes. Educational leadership in Finland is also characterized by a decentralized approach, where local municipalities and schools have significant autonomy in implementing policies. This decentralized model allows schools to adapt their practices to the specific needs of their communities while maintaining a shared commitment to the national goals of equity and excellence.

Impact and Global Lessons

“Finnish Lessons” has had a significant impact on the global education community. The book challenges the prevailing trends in global education reform, particularly the emphasis on standardization, accountability, and competition. Sahlberg’s analysis shows that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to improving education systems. Instead, he advocates for a more nuanced approach that takes into account the cultural, social, and economic contexts of different countries.

The Finnish model, as described by Sahlberg, offers valuable lessons for other nations. It demonstrates that it is possible to achieve high educational outcomes without resorting to punitive accountability measures or market-based reforms. Instead, by focusing on equity, trust, collaboration, and holistic support for students, Finland has created a system that not only produces excellent academic results but also fosters the well-being and development of all children.

About the Author

Pasi Sahlberg is a Finnish educator, scholar, and policy advisor who has worked in education for over three decades. He is an expert in educational policy, school improvement, and international education. Sahlberg has served in various roles, including as a teacher, researcher, and policy advisor for the Finnish Ministry of Education and the World Bank. He is currently a Professor of Education Policy at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia.

Sahlberg is known for his critical analysis of global education reform trends and his advocacy for more equitable and inclusive education systems. In addition to “Finnish Lessons,” he has authored several other books and articles on education, and he is a sought-after speaker and consultant worldwide. His work has had a significant influence on education policy and practice, both in Finland and internationally.

“Finnish Lessons: What Can the World Learn from Educational Change in Finland?” by Pasi Sahlberg offers a compelling and insightful analysis of one of the world’s most successful education systems. By focusing o equity, trust, collaboration, and holistic support, Finland has created a model that challenges many of the prevailing assumptions about how to improve education. Sahlberg’s book provides valuable lessons for policymakers, educators, and anyone interested in creating more effective and equitable education systems.