The Finnish education system, renowned for its excellence and innovation, is built on the principles of equity and inclusivity. For decades, the central aim has been that all people must have equal access to high-quality education and training. A small nation cannot afford to waste any of its human potential, and thus the same educational opportunities should be available to all citizens irrespective of their ethnic origin, age, wealth or where they live. This policy has been essential for lifting Finland from a relatively poor country in the mid-20th century to one of the advanced economies in the world – and the happiest country as well.
In today’s rapidly evolving world, digital learning has emerged as a powerful tool to bridge educational gaps and ensure that all learners have access to quality education. The Finnish example offers valuable insights into how digital learning can be leveraged to make education accessible to all.
The Power of Digital Learning
Digital learning encompasses a wide range of tools and practices, from online platforms and virtual classrooms to interactive apps and AI-driven learning solutions. These technologies have the potential to transform traditional education by making it more personalised, engaging and accessible.
In Finland, teachers are required to treat children and young people as individuals and help them to proceed, each according to their own capabilities. Learners should also experience success and the joy of learning. As part of the appropriate pedagogical approach, digital tools enable educators to tailor learning experiences to the individual needs of each student, while providing engaging content that sparks enjoyment and achievement. AI and machine learning can analyse student performance in real time, providing feedback and adjusting content to meet learners’ unique needs.
Digital learning can also break down geographical and physical barriers, making education accessible to students who might otherwise be excluded. Finland is a relatively large country, with sparsely populated regions especially in the north and east. These regions have particularly embraced the potential of digital learning, for example by offering a wider range of options in elective studies for students living in marginal areas with a small student population.
Finland’s Digital Education Ecosystem
Finland has long been a leader in education, and its approach to digital learning is no exception. The Finnish education system is built on the principles of equity, inclusivity and lifelong learning, and digital tools play a crucial role in supporting these values.
Finland has invested heavily in digital infrastructure, ensuring that all students have access to the internet and digital devices. This commitment to digital equity is essential for creating an inclusive educational environment.
Finnish educators are well trained in using digital tools and best practices. Continuous professional development ensures that teachers are equipped to integrate technology effectively into their teaching, enhancing the learning experience for all students.
AI has had a profound impact on education, and in Finland, national guidelines are being prepared by the Finnish National Agency for Education. The aim of the AI Guidelines is to support education and training providers in using AI as part of teaching and learning at all levels of education. The AI Guidelines are developed in cooperation with experts from the education sector, researchers and other stakeholders, and they will also be published in English.
Finland builds on its education expertise to offer schools and teachers a variety of digital learning solutions, from platforms for managing classroom activities to applications that support student learning. These tools are research based and designed to be user friendly and effective, helping students achieve their educational goals. The tools are available for customers around the world, for example through organisations that are members of the Education Finland programme.
Case Studies and Success Stories
Several Finnish initiatives highlight the success of digital learning in promoting inclusive education:
- Virtual living labs – These virtual platforms allow students to engage with real-world scenarios without the need for physical presence. They foster collaboration, enhance learning and promote the adoption of new technologies in a controlled environment.
- Solutions supporting literacy – Digital tools are designed to improve student reading skills through personalised learning paths and data-driven insights, with content tailored to individual student needs, boosting engagement and educational outcomes.
- Professional development programmes – Finnish organisations offer flexible training options for educators, including fully online, offline and hybrid programmes. These initiatives ensure that teachers can enhance their digital competencies at their own pace, with real-time support and interactive features.
Inspiration for Other Countries
The Finnish model of digital education offers several key lessons for other countries looking to enhance their educational systems:
- Invest in infrastructure – Ensuring that all students have access to the necessary digital tools and internet connectivity is crucial for creating an inclusive educational environment.
- Support teacher development – Continuous professional development for educators is essential for the effective integration of digital tools into teaching practices.
- Focus on equity – Digital learning should be used to bridge educational gaps, not widen them. Policies and practices should prioritise equity and inclusivity.
- Leverage technology for personalised learning – Digital tools can help tailor education to the unique needs of each student, promoting better engagement and outcomes.
Digital learning has the potential to revolutionise education, making it more inclusive and accessible for all learners. Finland’s approach to digital education, with its emphasis on equity, teacher competencies and innovative learning solutions, can inspire other countries as well. The website Exploring Finnish Digital Education(https://www.oph.fi/en/exploring-finnish-digital-education), maintained by the Finnish National Agency for Education, identifies the key elements of digital education and innovations in Finland that could also be adapted and implemented in countries seeking to transform their education systems.
Meet Us at eLearning Africa!
The Finnish delegation attending the eLearning Africa event is happy to continue dialogue and look for opportunities for collaboration. The delegation includes organisations working at all levels of education, from early childhood education and care to higher education and professional learning, and providing solutions from digital platforms to professional development for teachers. Come meet us in May at the Finnish booth (A3) at the exhibition!
We are successfully implementing a Finnish AI Maths programme in rural primary schools in South Africa. I look forward to connecting and discussing the impact with the Finnish delegation at the conference.