THE “MIRACLE” OF EDUCATION POLICIES IN FINLAND BETWEEN EQUITY AND MUTUAL TRUST. FROM PERFORMANCE TO EXCELENCE

Abstract

Miracle” (Niemi et al., 2012), “mystery”, “excellence”, “performance”, “worldleading”, etc. are some keywords used to describe the educational system in Finland. The article analyses the main cornerstones of Finnish educational policy. Several aspects are identified and decrypted, for instance: historical and cultural framework; equality and equity for lifelong learning; culture of trust at all levels; educational performance and research-based education and quality of teacher training. The present study wants to help readers to better understand the Finnish education system and to appreciate its good pedagogical practices which could be adapted to improve the education policies.