Finland is a place where it has one of the most forward-looking innovations in education. In today’s educational landscape, soft skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, creativity and learning skills; and in recent years, the Finland education system has implemented several pedagogical innovations and reforms which include (1) pedagogy based on student’s learning process (2) Phenomenon-based learning (3) empowering schools to develop new learning methods (4) reforms in student assessment.
In today’s digital era, there has been an observed shift to a student’s learning process, where digital learning are now intended based on the learner’s study approach. The outline of an educator’s activities and teaching methods can only be developed after the student’s learning process has been forged. In addition, phenomenon-based learning focuses on actual real-world and interdisciplinary aspects. Learning starts from the integrated observation of extensive, real-world experiences in the learning environment.
Teaching and learning will also happen in various settings dependent of the learning goals, content and working methods. Co-teaching is a good illustration of modern teaching methods which has been implemented in Finland. Further, the new assessment will now be based on a student’s learning process instead of the final outcomes. Various approaches such as portfolios are used in formative assessment.
This modern teaching method provides teachers with the opportunities to collaborate, create their pedagogy and new skills. Students will also get to learn more authentics skills and proficiencies required within the foreseeable future. Authentic learning, modern working style with technology have considerable motivational impact. The digitalised learning environment has led to a shift in the roles of teachers and students. Teachers today are responsible for activating and guiding students; while students are active agents through the stages of learning.
Digital technology is the fundamental tool for thinking and learning in the new school environment. Digital technology is combined with learning processes in pedagogically meaningful methods, enhancing the processes and allowing advanced pedagogical solutions. Learning is no longer restricted within traditional classroom settings but can occur in workshops, projects and on-the-job in vocational education.
Pedagogical change is essential for school of the future because of the change in skill demands by the dynamic workforce. The school of the future is a landscape for competence development and a pedagogical culture is critical for the establishment of the society.
Source: Enterprise Innovation