‘In Finland, schools give children more freedom & make them responsible early on'

Time of India

5 days ago

Ludhiana: Teachers of govt primary schools in the state who attended a training in Finland found a marked difference in their approach to pedagogy from India. They said they focus on experiential learning, which enhances children's understanding and gives them much more freedom, initiative and responsibility early on.
Amandeep Singh, block resource coordinator (Pakhowal), said, "They employ the ELPS model — Experience, Language, Picture, Symbol, especially at the primary level. This method allows children to build understanding through hands-on experiences before introducing abstract concepts. In India, we often start directly with symbols, which can hinder deep comprehension."
Singh was among the second batch of 72 schoolteachers to be sent to Finland in March.
The ELPS model's emphasis on experiential learning resonated with the teachers, who recognised its potential to transform classroom dynamics in Punjab. By allowing students to engage with materials and concepts actively, the approach fosters a deeper understanding and retention of knowledge.
Another significant observation was the Finnish emphasis on child-initiative pedagogy. While the Indian system is child-centric, focusing on the needs of the child, Finland's approach encourages children to take the initiative in their learning.
They are given choices and responsibilities, which cultivates independence and decision-making skills from an early age.
Manmeet Singh, district resource person, who was among the first batch of teachers sent there last year, said, "The Finnish education system also integrates vocational training and life skills into the curriculum. Teachers observed primary school students engaging in activities like woodwork and blacksmithing, providing them with practical skills alongside academic learning.
This holistic approach aims to develop well-rounded individuals equipped for various life challenges.
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The teachers underwent a three-week training programme, of which one week was in Punjab and the rest in Finland, under a partnership with the University of Turku in Finland. The teachers said there is an MoU of three years, as part of which they are adding their observations and learnings for a repository that would then be used for training teachers across Punjab.
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TAKEAWAYS FROM FINNISH STINT
They employ the ELPS model — Experience, Language, Picture, Symbol, especially at the primary level. This method allows children to build understanding through hands-on experiences before introducing abstract concepts. In India, we often start directly with symbols, which can hinder deep comprehension
Amandeep Singh, block resource coordinator (Pakhowal), who was among the 2nd batch of 72 govt schoolteachers sent to Finland for a training programme
The Finnish education system also integrates vocational training and life skills into the curriculum. We found primary school students engaging in activities like woodwork and blacksmithing, providing them with practical skills alongside academic learning. This holistic approach aims to develop well-rounded individuals equipped for various life challenges
Manmeet Singh, district resource person, who was among the first batch of teachers sent there last year