Description
Educators around the world are curious to learn more about early childhood education in Finland. Quality early childhood education is an integral part of the success story of Finnish education. Early childhood education and care (ECEC), pre-primary education and primary education form a continuum that supports the child’s development and learning. It is fair to say that early childhood education builds a foundation for the life-long learning path in Finland.
Finland has, for a long time, had a strong emphasis on stress-free childhood. Early childhood education in Finland is informal, full of play and activities that are characteristic of children, and not school-like at all. Despite of this non-academic and non-formal approach, Finnish early childhood education guarantees children excellent learning abilities. How is it done and where is Finland heading next in early childhood education?
This course presents the Finnish Educare model and National Core Curriculum guiding early childhood education in Finland. It also unveils the mission and core tasks of Finnish ECEC: promoting children’s well-being, happiness and health. Jump in and learn more about a typical day in Finnish early childhood education!
Goal: To introduce the basics of the Finnish early childhood education and care (ECEC) system
Learning outcomes:
- Participants gain general insights into the Finnish ECEC.
- Participants are capable to take a comparative perspective on ECEC in Finland and their respective locations and identify the strengths and development areas in their work.
- Participants are prepared to continue the exploration of the research-based Finnish ECEC approaches and practices.
Contents:
- Key concepts in Finnish ECEC, facts, relevant scientific research
- The mission and core task of Finnish ECEC
- Educare model
- ECEC based on the child’s individual needs
- ECEC organizational design and professional qualifications
- A typical day in Finnish ECEC
- Finnish Core Curriculum for ECEC as a guiding policy document
- Real life videos and photos
Completion methods: video lectures (in total 48 mins), additional learning material, learning assignments
The course is offered as a self-study online course. The course is asynchronous and can be completed at the participant’s own pace during 30 days.
Duration: in total 5h
Target group: ECEC teachers, principals and education experts
Produced by: Learning Scoop
Course platform: Claned Online Learning Platform
Access to the course: 30 days
Recommended products to combine with this course: B1 Cornerstones of Finnish education, E2 Promoting young children’s learning in practice, E3 Designing effective lessons and educational activities for young children, P1 Positive parenting from Finland and Early Childhood Education and Care Study Tour.
Reports and reviews
Key figures on early childhood and basic education in Finland 2018
This report focuses on the studying of children/pupils in Finnish early childhood education, pre-primary education and basic education, the content of the education, teachers and the school environment. The intention is to highlight perspectives of international interest or characteristics otherwise typical of the Finnish comprehensive school system and the instruction provided. Where applicable, the information presented has also been linked to its international frame of reference.
Seema Upadhyaya –
A complete picture of the Finnish Early Childhood Education and Care. I found this course very interactive, broken into various modules with clear linkages between all the modules. It was heartening to know how childhood is nurtured in the early years. The framework of the module clearly highlights the specifics and practices in a very simple yet meaningful way. Not too much or too little communicated through the videos. For me, this was like spending some time in a Finnish Early Childhood Education and Care Center.
Notaraj Zangir, Leila –
I recently completed the E1 course, which introduced me to the concept, purpose, and mission of the Finnish Early Childhood Education System (ECEC). As a master’s student at the University of Helsinki with eight years of experience teaching math, this course not only provided crucial insights into the Finnish education system but also sparked a newfound interest in early childhood education.
The course did a fantastic job presenting a broad view of the Finnish education system, focusing on the unique aspects of early childhood education. The content was well-organized and easy to follow, giving me a solid understanding of the principles that make the Finnish system stand out globally.
What grabbed my attention was how this course, despite my background in mathematics, managed to make the Finnish education system fascinating. The engaging discussions and thought-provoking content encouraged me to explore more about early childhood education, challenging my perspective on traditional teaching methods.
Coming from a math teaching background, I appreciated the emphasis on creating a supportive environment for young learners in the Finnish ECEC. The absence of excessive pressure on children is a refreshing departure from what I’ve experienced, aligning with my belief in fostering a love for learning from a young age.
Moreover, the course shed light on the mission and purpose of the Finnish ECEC, highlighting the societal values embedded in the education system. This broader view not only deepened my academic understanding but also inspired me to reflect on the significant impact education can have on society.
In summary, E1 was an eye-opening experience, providing valuable insights into the Finnish Early Childhood Education System. The course not only expanded my knowledge but also sparked a genuine interest in the world of early childhood education. I’m excited to apply these insights to my studies at the University of Helsinki and potentially explore a new career path in early childhood education.