Module 1.1: Case study 3: Finland
Which need or problem is addressed?
In the following case study we show an example of how in Finland a primary school used the project -based learning to develop a huge variety of skills of school-children. Although the focus of the project was not on the formation of a green school, the case depicts the interdisciplinary approach (history, religion, language, digital learning) and a wide range of methods (comparative study of texts, street surveys, interviews etc.) to develop these skills. This type of project can inspire analogous school projects using interdisciplinary approaches and various methods to raise sustainability awareness along with many other students’ skills.
Development of the skills necessary for children to flourish in the 21st century, including critical thinking, technical abilities, and cultural understanding. Finland despite having one of the world's best education systems, is shaking up its way of teaching through project- or phenomenon-based learning (PBL) to equip children with the necessary skills. However, there is a lack of empirical evidence and the potential gap between the brightest children and the less able.
How is it done?
In PBL, students choose a topic relevant to them and base subjects around it, making innovative use of technology and sources outside the school, such as experts and museums. The aim is for students to gain critical thinking skills, technical abilities, and other skills necessary to thrive in a digital age. There are several ways, of how PBL can be implemented in a school, such as a class of 12-year-olds comparing ancient Rome with modern Finland, and a project on immigration that incorporated German and religious classes, street surveys, and interviews with asylum seekers. While PBL has its critics, Finland believes it is vital in a digital age where children are no longer reliant on books and the classroom to gain knowledge.
What is the impact for teachers / students / the community?
The impact of PBL on teachers, students, and the community is that it equips children with skills necessary in the 21st Century. Students are allowed to choose a topic relevant to them and base subjects around it, encouraging critical thinking to identify fake news, avoiding cyber-bullying and the technical ability to install anti-virus software and link up to a printer. PBL also provides an important prop when it comes to preparing students to live in an uncertain future. Teachers who use PBL encourage the use of technology and sources outside the school, such as experts and museums, to make innovative use of teaching methods. While there is criticism of PBL, especially in terms of a lack of empirical evidence as it is not evaluated, the fact remains that PBL does work, even if its effectiveness cannot be easily measured. Raising a prepared for the future and aware generation is one of the biggest positive impacts PBL has.