Students in Finland won’t have to study subjects. Soon, their classrooms would resemble conferences where “topics” are discussed.
The education system in Finland is about to undergo a revolutionary and fundamental change, although it enjoys the reputation of being one of the best in the world. The education department has decided to abandon the old method of “teaching by subject.” Instead, the country will now involve the children to help them learn and question by evolving to “teaching by topic”, shared Liisa Pohjolainen, who is in charge of youth and adult education in Helsinki – the capital city leading the reform program, “This is going to be a big change in education in Finland that we’re just beginning.”
The education system, though appearing to be revolutionary, is quite logical, explained Pasi Silander, the city’s development manager, “What we need now is a different kind of education to prepare people for working life. Young people use quite advanced computers. In the past the banks had lots of bank clerks adding up figures but now that has totally changed. We therefore have to make the changes in education that are necessary for industry and modern society.”
How does Finland plan to apply the method of teaching by topic? Evidently all-round vocational training and accumulated skill development take up priority over “lessons.” Those in their late teens are already being engaged in what Finland refers to as “phenomenon teaching” – or teaching by topic. For example, “cafeteria services” lessons will include elements of finance, languages (to help serve foreign customers), writing skills and communication skills.
Students will slowly be taught cross-subject topics which would have varying elements of multiple “subjects.” These elements will vary with the “topic” or “skill” the student is learning. Apart from the same, students will move away from the traditional sitting and evaluation techniques as well. Students will sit in smaller groups and work collectively to solve problems, all the while improving upon their communication skills. They won’t be made to sit in rows and asked questions individually to assess their progress. Instead, a group whose collaborative efforts bring out results faster will be promoted.
The education system needs a thorough reform, owing to the fact that traditional teaching techniques were based on traditional tools that were quite limited in availability and accessibility. With modern world being extensively connected, isn’t it time for the students to learn how to step ahead of mere fact-based learning that promotes memory expansion rather than mental development?
(Note: Answer the questions or complete the statements in NO MORE THAN TEN WORDS.)
Finland is launching its education reform by _________.
What’s the purpose of Finland’s education reform?
What are two of the main features of “teaching by topic”?
Finland decides to reform its education because traditional teaching _________.