Why Are Finland’s Schools Successful?
Education GovernmentSummary
Finland’s education system consistently outperforms countries like Norway and America, but why is that? This article from the Smithsonian Magazine attributes the country’s success to its holistic, student-centered approach. The system prioritizes equity to ensure children receive personalized, high-quality education, regardless of class, race, ethnicity, and mental and physical ability. Not only do they invest in children, but they invest heavily in teachers. Finnish teachers are regarded and treated similarly to doctors and lawyers—they are selected from the top 10% of graduates, are highly trained, and are granted the flexibility to tailor lessons. Additionally, contrary to America’s education system which emphasizes privatization and competition, Finland’s schools are publicly-funded and minimize standardized testing, focusing instead on teaching students how to learn rather than how to take tests. Finally, schools are regarded as more than just a place to learn standard subjects like math and science. They foster creativity and play to allow children to develop cognitive and social skills, and provide social support, including meals, medical and health care, and counselling.