In the vibrant and storied city of Helsinki I attended a course with a group of teachers from all over Europe to learn more about the Finnish education system’s innovative pedagogical methods and unique environmental approach. The week we spent in the country offered us an opportunity to explore how Finland integrates environmental education into its schools, fostering a generation of eco-conscious citizens.

FINNISH EDUCATION MODEL

No dead-ends in their education system, extensive vocational training options

Core ideas: active learning, sustainable way of living, integrative teaching, school as a community, comprehensive education

Environmental education vs. environmental information (the former effectively increases public awareness and knowledge of environmental issues, teaches individuals critical-thinking and enhances their problem-solving skills)

Environmental education is an integral part of the national curriculum in Finland, ensuring that students at all levels receive education on ecological sustainability

Finland uses interdisciplinary approach to environmental education, integrating environmental themes across various subjects, including science, geography, and social studies

The Finnish education system places a strong emphasis on outdoor education and experiential learning. Students frequently engage in activities that connect them directly with the natural environment, fostering a sense of appreciation and responsibility

Students learn about sustainable practices, renewable energy sources, and the importance of responsible consumption to contribute to a more sustainable future

Environmental education in Finland often involves collaboration with local communities. This engagement fosters a sense of shared responsibility and encourages students to actively participate in community-based environmental actions

Efforts are made to ensure that environmental education is inclusive and accessible to all students, regardless of background. This inclusivity aligns with Finland’s broader commitment to equality in education

Finland actively supports research and innovation in environmental education. This commitment helps refine teaching methodologies, update curriculum content, and stay at the forefront of sustainable practices

The curriculum emphasizes the cultivation of eco-social values, such as environmental justice, equity, and ethical considerations. Students are encouraged to critically analyze environmental issues within broader societal contexts

 

ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION & OUTDOOR EDUCATION IN THE NATIONAL CORE CURRICULUM

Strengthen children’s relationship with nature

Deepen their knowledge and understanding about environment and it’s phenomenons

Understand how humans are part of nature and how we’re dependent on the vitality of ecosystem

Teaching a sustainable way if living

 

CURRENT CHALLENGES OF ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

Climate anxiety and disconnection, its effect of physical, mental and community health

The phenomenon of climate numbness

The importance of advocating for responsible consumption

Greenwashing: when an organization spends more time and money on marketing itself as environmentally friendly than on actually minimizing its environmental impact. It’s a deceitful marketing gimmick intended to mislead consumers who prefer to buy goods and services from environmentally conscious brands

The impact of fast fashion on the planet and developing countries

 

A ROADMAP TO EFFECTIVE CLIMATE CHANGE EDUCATION

Approach with empathy and curiosity

Connect with nature

Build literacy of environment, energy and climate

Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills

Create hope and agency by helping students be part of the solution

Inspire others to action

 

PHENOMENON BASED LEARNING FROM FINLAND

Holistic approach​

In phenomenon based learning (PhBL), we try to understand the world  around us, gaining more knowledge of current events, people and situations

Rather than just solving a problem (like in PBL) we try to understand why something happens or how the world around is operating

 

PEDAGOGIES FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

Place-based learning: Make learning relevant to HERE and NOW, not there and then. The local community is viewed as a primary source of knowledge—a place to observe various ecosystem processes, human-nature relationships, city planning, and aspects of human culture and society

Evidence-based learning: Promote critical thinking to support reasons with evidence. Learning based on the best available scientific evidence, rather than tradition, personal judgment, or other influences

Action and Solution-oriented: Explore and discuss solutions, simple actions that everyone can do. Spend more time on “Solution” than the “Problem”

 

“HUMMINGBIRD” PROJECT

Experimental one-year project to explore how big and small actions can take place in the local environment and community

 

STUDY TRIP TO OODI CENTRAL LIBRARY and OUTDOOR LEARNING DAY ON MUSTIKKAMAA ISLAND

Our Europass trainer integrated these outdoor field trips into our course to explore the Finnish idea of life-long learning, the sustainable way of living, the innovative educational space design and the Finnish way of life

This mobility was funded by the European Commission.

The information presented here does not necessarily reflect the views of the European Commission.

written by Horváth Bence