Yes, yes, yes, but Finland is largely homogeneous, is the geographical size of Minnesota, has little transiency, and has a significantly different national poverty level (with less range of haves and have-nots).
It's a great statement about how a country values education. I think teachers in Finland are compensated very well and are also respected like our teachers were about 30 years ago. It will be interesting to see how their system changes as their population becomes more diverse.
he 2010 Education Council had plenty to say — and they’re certain they’ll be heard. Among their suggestions:
1) Allow access to restricted Web sites like YouTube for educational purposes.
2) Hold technology integration training workshops for teachers.
3) Use cell phones as a “teacher-defined learning tool.”
4) Partner with media-savvy youth organizations like YouMedia so that students who participate in technology-rich projects outside of school can receive elective credits.
he most important recommendations is for CPS to offer workshops for teachers on using technology in the classroom.
teachers should have a personal password for unblocking restricted websites for educational purposes.
The first way is in the classroom. Most teachers with abundant access to electronic devices have integrated desktops, laptops, interactive white- boards, and clickers into their lessons.
The second way of integrating technology is in the school. Combining online instruction for individual students tailored to their academic needs and interests with regular classroom instruction have emerged in past few years as “blended learning.”
The third way are for-profit and non-profit K-12 cyber schools such as Agora (PA) and Florida Virtual School where students receive online instruction at home or elsewhere and get their diplomas without entering school buildings.
These disparities in school funding also lead to disparities in salaries and working conditions, which create shortages of qualified personnel in high-need districts.