Finland Ceases to Have Best Education System in the World

There seems to be much apprehension as to why it is fruitful to study in Finland, it is well highlighted in the recent Universitas 21 (U21) rankings of National Higher Education System which shows, one great motivator is the world-class efficiency of its higher education system. Results from the league table say whilst the US system is still top in terms of overall performance; Finland is the true winner when the rankings are accustomed to measure each country relative to their national income levels. That in  fact, when adapted to take into account GDP per capita, Finland takes the lead ahead of the US and UK, traditional favourites in the world of higher education.

The U21 rankings compare the strengths and weaknesses of individual institutions but, unsatisfied with the measurement of the best higher education system, the rankings were reworked to consider the countries’ economic standing. Unlike in the US, all schools in Finland are funded by the government. This means the quality of education a child receives is not dependent on their parents’ income. While the richest parents in the US can afford to pay hefty fees charged by the best schools in the country, all children in Finland are welcomed at high-quality schools where children’s needs are nurtured. No division between public and state sectors. Unlike in the US, all schools in Finland are funded by the government. This means the quality of education a child receives is not dependent on their parents’ income. In Finland Student free time is highly valued as students, teachers and parents alike understand free time is crucial to development. This means children are allowed 15 minutes of playtime after 45 minutes of teaching to help them develop social skills and learn how to cooperate. Home time in Finland also means exactly that. While in the US, students have to wade through hours of homework each night; Finnish schools complete all the work necessary during school hours, leaving children free to play with their friends and family in the evenings. In Finland, Teaching is valued as a respectable profession. As the oft-quoted line from School of Rock goes: “Those who can’t do, teach; those who can’t teach, teach Gym.” To become a teacher, you must have at least a master’s degree as well as the equivalent of a residency programme in US medical schools. While there is a production line mentality to creating new teachers in the US, Finland recognises the importance of the best minds in the country sharing their knowledge with today’s youth. Research is king in decision-making. Thanks to depoliticised research centres, Finland makes decisions on education based on independent results. In the US, research is often funded to support political decisions meaning that studies only reflect part of the picture.  Finland offers teachers freedom to identify individualities within the class and teach accordingly. This means that students in Finland benefit from diverse learning techniques and creative thinking, unlike in the US. Even preschool and university are free in Finland.

By: Anuja Arora

Content: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2018/09/10-reasons-why-finlands-education-system-is-the-best-in-the-world