Why
Findland’s Schools Are So Successfull
For
many years the school system in Finland has been very successful. In the PISA
survey, which compares reading, math and science knowledge of 15 year olds
around the world, Finland is not only the top European country but also
competes with Asian giants like Shanghai, Singapore and South Korea. But what
makes the educational system in this small country so strikingly different from
others in the western world.
First
of all, the Finish government makes it possible for all children to attend
preschool, which comes after kindergarten. Compulsory education begins at 7.
Teachers work with their pupils in school as much as possible. They have little
homework to do when they get home. When teachers are not with the pupils
they spend a lot of time in schools working on the curriculum and new
projects. They teach in teams if it is needed to help them reach their
goals. That is why dropout rates are low compared to other countries.
In
contrast to other nations teaching in Finland is a highly admired profession.
Finland selects its teachers very carefully. Only talented students can
continue their education to a university and receive a master’s degree in
education. Finland only takes the best to educate its youth.
Schools
in Finland are small, at least for international standards. However, more than
in any other country teachers are ready to prepare children for life. In some
cases they know every pupil in their school and can adjust to them. Teachers
try everything to succeed with their pupils. Most of the pupils get additional
help in their elementary school years, either by the teachers themselves or
through specially trained educators.
