Journal for Educators, Teachers and Trainers (Dec 2012)
The education system of Finland and its success in the PISA test
Abstract
Once again, the Finnish educational system has scored well in the PISA-tests. Among its various organizational structures and policies, the consensus of the educational policy - which is reflected by uniform structures and directions for developing the curriculum - can be identified as a reason for the success. The municipalities are responsible for the organization and realization of the primary education as well as establishing a more detailed curriculum in accordance with the goals of the National Board of Education. The schools and the teachers are allowed a great deal of independence when developing the pedagogical content and choosing a method. This orientation reflects an adjustment in the goals of the curriculum which now emphasizes practical usefulness of the information acquired by the students rather than strict adherence to a rigid curriculum. Also the change in the inspection system and the development of the education after the primary education are important aspects considering the Finnish success in the PISA tests.
