Teach Like Finland: 33 Simple Strategies for Joyful Classrooms by Timothy D. Walker

I 

can truly say that I’ve never heard about the Finnish educational system before reading this book. What’s more interesting, as a teacher I often follow news, read different articles and watch videos about education. However, that position somehow changed my thinking about learning in general. While most of the time I envied kids whose time was filled with a lot of activities and extra classes, this book made me aware of a few things that have changed my point of view forever.

But why Finnish schools are so unique as well as effective?

Timothy D. Walker is an American teacher who moved to Finland and decide to write a book about differences between American and Finnish educational system. 

Walker points out tens of reasons why children in Finland get high scores on international tests and later on do well in the labour market. Let me give you a few examples of them.

First of all, teacher and parents should take care of children’s well-being. We have to remember about inflow of a fresh air and taking short breaks during lessons. The best way to let our brain to rest is to move a little and surround yourself with nature. Author suggests also to remove unnecessary objects that may overwhelm children and absorb their attention. 

Another important aspect is support. We should create teams and share different challenges together. A sense of belonging is the basic component of happiness that makes children feel safer and more confident. Children working to the idea of common goals show greater motivation.

The following example of their great educational system is self-reliance. There is nothing wrong in making mistakes. We should give students chance to learn the hard way, because in the future no one will take their hands at every occasion. Raising children in a spirit of independence is a great lesson of life.

Next point which Walker emphasizes are children’s interests. Hobbies and passions are great way to make child interested in learning. Course books are made by adults and that is why sources often are out of date. Asking children about latest interests and adding them to your lesson can change pupils’ approach.  

The last reason why Finnish children are so successful is high authority during teachers. Children and parents trust teachers. Children know how well-educated and experienced their teacher is so it is much easier to pass wisdom to.

Let me know what do you think about this book (or my short extract only ;)) and what are your reflections on educational system and its influence on adult life? Do you know any worth reading positions I should know?

XOXO,

Marta