Learning and Discipline in Finland – 4

Comparison of Education in Finland vs. Other Educational Approaches 

FINLAND

Flexibiliity and diversity  

School-based curriculum and development
networking through steering by students
information and support

Broad Knowledge

Focus on broad learning; equal value to
all aspects of individual’s growth in
personality, moral, creativity,
knowledge, and skills

Trust through Professionalism

Culture of trust that values teachers’
and principals’ professionalism in
judging what is best for students and in
reporting on progress in their learning 

OTHERS

Standardization

Standards for schools, teachers, and
students to improve the quality
of outcomes

Literacy and Numeracy

Basic knowledge and skills in
reading, writing, mathematics, and
science are prime targets of 
educational reform

Consequential Accountability

The school performance is closely
tied to “inspection” using narrow
metrics and ultimately rewarding
or punishing schools and teachers 

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