Education Outside Classroom – The secret ingredient of Finnish education excellence

Education outside classroom (EOC) is often characterized by curriculum-based educational activities practiced outside the school buildings, in natural (e.g., a park or forest) or cultural (e.g., a museum or library) settings. EOC includes for example versatile field trips, visits to museums, and various ways of outdoor learning. In addition, EOC is often considered as ‘experiential’…

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Forest – promoting well-being of children and adults

Nature, particularly the forest, is an important part of the early childhood education environment. The forest promotes overall well-being in both adults and children. The mind becomes peaceful and relaxes in the forest, and heart rate, blood pressure and stress are reduced. Studies indicate that positive effects occur already within 15 minutes of being in…

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Study Tours – connecting people

Study Tour offers a clear picture of Finnish school system, curriculum and teaching methods in real action. I’ve found three terms to describe this experience; professional, organized and honest. Professionality appears in the way these tours are held. All the trainers and hosts are clearly highly educated and well prepared. I liked the way how…

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Learning goes forest

Sometimes we are asked “how many forest do you have?” Well, one. A bit exaggerated the whole Finland is actually one big forest with lakes and some houses here and there. Even in cities, forest and nature are normally not that far away. So, it is no wonder that our schools and day-care centres have…

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