Happiness in Finland

Finland’s recognition as the world’s happiest country, as ranked by the World Happiness Report, is grounded in a unique interplay of social structures, cultural values, and environmental elements. This achievement reflects not only the high quality of life in Finland but also a deep-rooted philosophy about well-being and happiness that prioritizes simplicity, equity, and connection. 

Why the Finns are so happy?

Connection with Nature

Finns maintain a profound bond with nature, often engaging in activities like forest walks, lake swimming, and foraging. This deep-rooted connection fosters a sense of peace and well-being. Visit Finland’s “Masterclass of Happiness“ emphasizes the importance of nature in achieving happiness, offering insights into how individuals can integrate natural elements into their daily lives. 

Balanced Lifestyle

A harmonious work-life balance is central to Finnish happiness. The culture prioritizes personal time, family, and relaxation, allowing individuals to recharge and maintain mental health. The “Helsinki Happiness Hacks“ initiative showcases how Helsinki’s residents incorporate balance into their urban lives, blending work with leisure and community engagement. 

Design and Everyday Aesthetics

Finnish design, characterized by simplicity and functionality, enhances daily life. The emphasis on creating aesthetically pleasing and practical environments contributes to overall satisfaction and comfort. The “Find Your Inner Finn” program explores how thoughtful design influences well-being, encouraging individuals to create spaces that promote happiness. 

Sauna Culture

The traditional Finnish sauna is more than a leisure activity; it’s a practice that promotes relaxation, socialization, and physical health. Regular sauna sessions are integral to Finnish life, offering a space for reflection and community bonding. Experiencing a sauna is highlighted as a key activity in Helsinki that can enhance happiness. 

Culinary Traditions

Finnish cuisine emphasizes fresh, local ingredients, reflecting the country’s natural abundance. Sharing meals and traditional dishes fosters community and a sense of belonging, contributing to overall happiness. The “Masterclass of Happiness” includes lessons on how Finnish food culture supports well-being. 

In recent years, Finland has consistently held the title of the happiest country in the world according to various global happiness indexes. This Scandinavian nation has captured international attention for its exceptional quality of life, high levels of well-being, and overall happiness of its citizens. But what exactly makes Finland stand out as the happiest country on Earth?

One of the key factors contributing to Finland’s happiness is its unique approach to education. Why education in Finland is the best? What different in education system in Finland vs other educational systems?

The Finnish education system has garnered widespread acclaim for its progressive and inclusive practices, which prioritize individualized learning, student well-being, and overall holistic development.
At the heart of Finland’s education system is the principle of equity. Unlike many other countries, Finland has a highly equitable education system where all students, regardless of socio-economic background, have access to high-quality education. There are no standardized tests or excessive competition among students. Instead, the focus is on fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment where every student can thrive.
Another distinctive feature of Finnish education is its emphasis on play-based learning and outdoor activities. Finland recognizes the importance of allowing children to learn through exploration, creativity, and physical activity. Outdoor play is integrated into the curriculum, providing students with opportunities to connect with nature and develop essential social and problem-solving skills.
Furthermore, Finland places a strong emphasis on teacher training and professional development. Teachers in Finland are highly respected professionals who undergo rigorous training and continuous professional development throughout their careers. This ensures that educators are well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of their students and create engaging learning experiences.
Additionally, Finland’s education system values student well-being as a fundamental component of academic success. Schools prioritize fostering positive relationships, promoting mental health awareness, and providing comprehensive support services to students. This holistic approach to education helps create a supportive and nurturing environment where students feel valued and empowered to reach their full potential.

In conclusion, Finland’s status as the happiest country in the world can be attributed in part to its exemplary education system. By prioritizing equity, play-based learning, teacher professionalism, and student well-being, Finland has created an educational framework that fosters happiness, resilience, and success among its citizens. As other countries strive to improve their own education systems, they can undoubtedly learn valuable lessons from Finland’s approach to education and well-being.

Discover more information the below article about Finland and the activities which you can do if you visit Helsiki!

https://www.myhelsinki.fi/en/your-local-guide-to-helsinki
https://www.goodnewsfinland.com/en/articles/breaking-news/2024/finland-happiest-country/
https://finland.fi/life-society/for-seventh-year-running-finland-is-first-in-world-happiness-report-other-nordics-in-top-7/

In the heart of the Nordics lies a country whose educational system has become the subject of global envy and admiration. Finland, with its serene landscapes and progressive society, offers more than just a high-quality education—it provides a glimpse into a world where learning is joyous and deeply interconnected with nature and societal well-being. Through the lens of the #visitedufinn3000 contest, educators and enthusiasts worldwide have shared their aspirations and curiosities about this educational paradise. This blog post delves into these reflections to uncover the broader appeal of Finnish education and culture.

The Allure of Finnish Society and Culture

“I’m really interested in Finland’s educational approach and what students’ life is like when they finish school on a daily basis.” This sentiment captures the curiosity that many hold towards the Finnish way of life, where education seamlessly blends with societal values, promoting a balance that many yearn to understand and experience. Finland’s happiness index, often cited as among the highest globally, hints at a societal structure that supports upliftment and well-being. “It’s Happiness index which shows one of the happiest countries in the world. Also, the education system and the societal structure that supports and uplifts this happiness.” These reflections underscore a desire to grasp the underlying principles of Finnish society that contribute to its renowned quality of life.

Nature and Learning: A Harmonious Blend

Finland’s natural beauty is not just a backdrop but an integral part of its educational ethos. The desire to experience “the mesmerizing Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis,” is a testament to the profound connection between nature and learning that Finland embodies. This connection extends beyond mere admiration to a deep-seated belief in the educational value of the natural world. “Finland’s uniqueness lies in its harmonious blend of technology with nature. I would love to experience this first-hand.” The enchantment with Finland’s landscapes reveals a longing for an education system that respects and incorporates the natural environment into the learning process, fostering a sense of wonder and environmental stewardship among students.

A Global Classroom: Learning from Finnish Innovation

The global education community is eager to learn from Finland’s innovative approaches to teaching and learning. Excluding specific references to vocational education, there remains a vast array of topics that captivate those looking to evolve their educational practices. “Wireless technologies, nanotechnology, semiconductors, photonics, space technology – the Electronics and Nanotechnology Master’s Programme covers some of the most topical themes in today’s engineering world.” Such insights reflect a keen interest in how Finland stays at the forefront of technological education, integrating cutting-edge subjects into its curriculum.

Implementing Finnish Insights Worldwide

The aspiration to bring Finnish educational practices to other parts of the world is a common thread among respondents. “At Finland, students can improve their global competence, and I aim to understand and implement similar strategies in my educational context to enhance the overall learning experience.” This goal highlights a desire not only to learn from Finland’s success but to adapt and apply these lessons in diverse educational landscapes, underscoring the universal relevance of Finnish educational principles.

Experiencing Finnish Education Firsthand

The enthusiasm for experiencing Finnish education firsthand is palpable among education professionals worldwide. “If I could choose one unique experience in Finland, it would be to immerse myself in a Finnish school to understand the daily dynamics and methodologies firsthand.” This eagerness to observe, interact, and learn within the Finnish educational environment speaks volumes about the global quest for educational excellence and innovation.

Conclusion: The Finnish Educational Odyssey

As we traverse the responses from the #visitedufinn3000 contest, a picture emerges of a global community drawn to Finland not just for its educational outcomes but for the holistic and harmonious way of life it represents. From its societal values and natural beauty to its innovative educational practices, Finland offers a beacon of hope and a model for the future of education. “By learning about Finnish education, I aim to incorporate its ethos of student well-being and holistic development into my own teaching practices.” This journey into Finnish education, culture, and society, as reflected in the contest responses, is not just about understanding a system but about envisioning a world where education transcends boundaries, fostering a global classroom rooted in well-being, innovation, and harmony with nature.

Globalisoituneessa maailmassa koulutuksen merkitys ylittää perinteiset oppimisen rajat, tuoden etualalle kulttuurien välisen vuoropuhelun ja kansainvälisen ymmärryksen. Lyhytaikaiset oppilasvaihdot tarjoavat ainutlaatuisen tilaisuuden kokea nämä elementit suoraan luokkahuoneessa, luoden alustan kulttuurien kohtaamisille ja monipuoliselle oppimiselle.

Globaalikasvatus: Avain ymmärrykseen ja toleranssiin

Globaalikasvatus on opetuksen muoto, joka keskittyy maailmanlaajuisten kysymysten ymmärtämiseen ja kunnioittamiseen. Se auttaa nuoria tunnistamaan ja arvostamaan erilaisuutta sekä kehittämään taitoja, joita tarvitaan toimimiseen monikulttuurisessa yhteiskunnassa. Lyhytaikaiset oppilasvaihdot ovat erinomainen keino toteuttaa tätä kasvatuksen osa-aluetta.

Kun suomalaiset oppilaat osallistuvat vaihto-ohjelmiin tai kun heidän kouluunsa saapuu ulkomaisia opiskelijoita, se avaa ovia molemminpuoliseen oppimiseen ja ymmärrykseen. “Oli hienoa olla mukana italialaisten vierailussa ja tutustua uusiin ihmisiin toisesta maasta”, kertoo yksi suomalainen oppilas. “Sain tietoa italialaisesta kulttuurista ja olen pitänyt yhteyttä heihin Snapchatissä.” Tämä ei ole vain kulttuurien välisen vuoropuhelun harjoittamista, vaan se on myös aktiivista globaalikasvatusta.

Hyödyt suomalaisille ja ulkomaisille oppilaille

Lyhytaikaiset vaihdot eivät ole vain akateemisia kokemuksia; ne ovat myös henkilökohtaisen kasvun, sosiaalisten taitojen kehittymisen ja kansainvälisen kansalaisuuden harjoittelua. Suomalaisille oppilaille ne tuovat mahdollisuuden tutustua uusiin kulttuureihin ja kehittää kielitaitoaan, kun taas ulkomaisille opiskelijoille ne tarjoavat ainutlaatuisen tilaisuuden oppia suomalaisesta koulujärjestelmästä ja elämäntavasta.

Filippos Turkka, suomalainen yhdeksäsluokkalainen, kuvailee kokemustaan näin: “Vierailu oli kiva ja olisin halunnut, että projekti heidän kanssaan jatkuisi. Oli kiva tutustua uusiin ihmisiin toisesta maasta.” Tällaiset kokemukset eivät vain rikasta oppilaiden akateemista elämää, vaan myös edistävät henkilökohtaista ja sosiaalista kehitystä.

Kansainvälisen ymmärryksen syventäminen

Lyhytaikaiset oppilasvaihdot edistävät globaalia ymmärrystä ja tietoisuutta, joka on elintärkeää nykypäivän maailmassa. Oppilaat oppivat paitsi toisistaan, myös tulevat tietoisiksi globaaleista kysymyksistä, kuten ympäristön suojelusta, kestävästä kehityksestä ja ihmisoikeuksista. Tämä kokonaisvaltainen lähestymistapa koulutukseen valmistaa nuoria olemaan vastuullisia ja informoituja kansalaisia.

Lopuksi

Lyhytaikaiset oppilasvaihdot tarjoavat ainutlaatuisen mahdollisuuden kulttuurien kohtaamisille suoraan luokkahuoneessa. Ne eivät ainoastaan rikasta opetussuunnitelmaa, vaan myös avaavat ovia uudenlaiseen ymmärrykseen ja globaaliin tietoisuuteen, tarjoten oppilaille tilaisuuden oppia toisiltaan, kehittää kielitaitojaan ja rakentaa elinikäisiä ystävyyssuhteita. Erityisesti globaalikasvatuksen näkökulmasta lyhytaikaiset oppilasvaihdot tarjoavat korvaamattoman alustan monikulttuurisuuden, suvaitsevaisuuden ja kansainvälisen yhteistyön edistämiseen.  Tämä tekee lyhytaikaisista oppilasvaihdoista arvokkaita sekä yksilöille että yhteiskunnalle kokonaisuudessaan.

Voices from the Field: Survey Highlights from European Educators

The Erasmus+ Job Shadowing program stands as a pioneering initiative in the realm of global education. For educators across the continent, this program is more than just an opportunity; it’s a transformative journey that allows them to dive deep into diverse educational settings and methodologies. Over the years, the program has garnered significant attention, becoming a sought-after experience for those keen on broadening their pedagogical horizons.

In our continuous effort to assess and enhance the program’s effectiveness, we recently conducted a comprehensive survey targeting our clients who participated in the Erasmus+ Job Shadowing program in Finland. During last school year, from September 2022 to May 2023, the survey witnessed an impressive participation of 168 respondents, making it one of our most extensive feedback initiatives to date.

Key Survey Highlights:

1. Overall Satisfaction: A staggering 92% of the respondents rated their overall experience with the program as ‘Excellent’ or ‘Very Good’.
2. Pedagogical Impact: 88% felt that their exposure to the Finnish education system would have a direct positive impact on their teaching methodologies.
3. Cultural Exchange: 90% of the participants appreciated the cultural immersion, highlighting it as a valuable aspect that enriched their overall experience.
4. Program Organization: 94% commended the seamless organization, logistical arrangements, and the support provided throughout their stay in Finland.
5. Future Recommendations: An encouraging 97,5% stated that they would highly recommend the Erasmus+ Job Shadowing program in Finland to their peers.

These results are not just numbers; they are a testament to the program’s unparalleled success and the profound impact it continues to have on educators. Each feedback underscores our commitment to excellence and motivates us to elevate the Erasmus+ Job Shadowing experience further.

The Finnish Magic

Finland’s education system stands as a beacon in the global educational landscape, celebrated for its innovative approaches, student-centric methodologies, and an unwavering emphasis on holistic development. The Finnish model is not just about academic excellence; it’s a harmonious blend of fostering creativity, critical thinking, and well-being among students. But reading or hearing about it is one thing; experiencing it is another.

When educators from diverse corners of the world step into a Finnish classroom, they are often met with a series of delightful surprises. Here’s what our survey respondents had to say about their firsthand experience with the Finnish education system:

1. Classroom Dynamics: Many educators were astounded by the level of trust and autonomy given to students. Classrooms were not just spaces for instruction but hubs of collaborative learning where students took charge of their educational journey.

2. Teacher-Student Relationship: Respondents frequently highlighted the mutual respect between teachers and students. The Finnish model places a strong emphasis on building a nurturing and understanding relationship, which many found to be a stark contrast to more hierarchical systems they were accustomed to.

3. Learning Beyond Books: A significant number of participants were impressed by the integration of practical skills, outdoor activities, and arts into the curriculum. They appreciated how Finnish schools prioritize experiential learning, ensuring students grasp concepts beyond textbooks.

4. Well-being and Mental Health: The focus on student well-being was a revelation for many. From regular breaks to the inclusion of relaxation and mindfulness activities, Finnish schools showcased a deep commitment to the mental and emotional health of their students.

5. Inclusive Education: Educators lauded the inclusive nature of Finnish schools. They observed how students with different learning needs were integrated into regular classrooms, with tailored support ensuring every child thrives.

But what happens when educators from different parts of Europe get a chance to experience this firsthand? The answer is simple: transformation.

In essence, the transformation that educators undergo during their time in Finland is profound. It’s not just about adopting new teaching techniques; it’s about embracing a philosophy that views education as a tool for holistic human development. For many, the Finnish magic is a reminder of why they chose the noble profession of teaching and how they can reimagine education in their home countries.

A Dive into Positive Feedback

Our recent survey results have been overwhelmingly positive, with educators expressing gratitude, admiration, and inspiration from their experiences in Finland. Let’s delve into some of the feedback:

1. A New Perspective on Teaching

   “It was a valuable experience because we learned about other ways of teaching and got a lot of inspiration for teaching in our school.” 

   This sentiment was echoed by many participants who found the Finnish way of teaching to be a breath of fresh air. The emphasis on student autonomy, active learning, and real-world application has provided our clients with fresh perspectives to incorporate into their teaching methodologies.

2. A Deep Dive into Methodologies

   “The job shadowing experience was positive as it allowed us to explore the methodologies, teaching material, and tools used to acquire skills. It was certainly an opportunity for growth and comparison.”

   Finland’s unique approach to education, which includes a blend of traditional and modern teaching methodologies, has been a revelation for many. The hands-on experience has allowed educators to compare and contrast, ultimately enriching their teaching repertoire.

3. A Personal and Professional Growth Journey

   “This was a valuable experience to observe and compare the didactical methods discussing those among the colleagues and to engage the teachers in concrete actions to implement in the local schools once back.”

   Beyond methodologies and teaching techniques, the Erasmus+ Job Shadowing program in Finland has been a journey of personal and professional growth for many. The interactions, discussions, and collaborations have paved the way for long-lasting relationships and a deeper understanding of global educational practices.

In Conclusion

The Erasmus+ Job Shadowing program in Finland is more than just an educational trip; it’s a transformative experience that reshapes perspectives, methodologies, and teaching philosophies. The positive feedback from our clients is a testament to the program’s impact and the magic of Finnish education. If you’re an educator looking to broaden your horizons and immerse yourself in a world-class educational setting, the Erasmus+ Job Shadowing in Finland awaits you and this quote from our survey encapsulates the essence of the experience:

“This is an experience that I strongly suggest to every teacher because it allows you to know different school systems and find suggestions to improve your own way of teaching.”

Tässä blogissa kuvataan opettajien ja muun henkilökunnan kokemuksia VisitEDUfinnin järjestämistä Job Shadowing -jaksoista. Palautetta on kysytty lukuvuoden 2022-2023 aikana järjestetyistä vierailuista sekä suomalaisten koulujen edustajilta (N 27) että vierailevilta opettajilta (N 168).

Suomalaisten koulujen vastaukset:

“Toivottavasti yhteistyö jatkuu vielä jatkossa!”

Suomalaisista kouluista saimme yhteensä 27 vastausta. Kysely toteutettiin lukukauden viimeisellä viikolla, joka selittää sitä, että kaikilta kouluilta ei ole tullut vastauksia. Saamamme vastaukset olivat positiivisia, suomalaiset koulut kokivat pääsääntöisesti vierailun hyväksi ja heitä hyödyttäväksi.

Kuva 1. Tyytyväisyys vierailun järjestelyihin (N=27)

Kysyimme kouluilta palautetta vierailuista. 25 vastaajaa 27 vastaajasta oli tyytyväisiä vierailun järjestelyihin eli 93 prosenttia kyselyyn osallistuneista.

Kuva 2. Kiinnostus yhteistyöhön jatkossa (N=27)

96,3 prosenttia vastaajista oli joko täysin samaa mieltä tai jokseenkin samaa mieltä kysyttäessä olisivatko he kiinnostuneita ottamaan vieraita vastaan myöhemmin.

Avoimissa vastauksissa toistuvat aiheet:

• mielenkiintoiset keskustelut
• opetuksen rikastaminen
• oppilaiden motivoiminen
  kieltenoppimiseen
• koulujärjestelmien vertailu
  (comparative education)
• vaihtelua arkeen
• kokemusten jakaminen
• kulttuurien kohtaaminen 

Saimme muutamia hyviä kehitysehdotuksia, joiden avulla toimintaa voi ensi lukukaudella kehittää. Tieto vierailuista olisi hyvä tietää aiemmi, jotta kouluille jäisi enemmän aikaa valmistautua. Lisäksi olisi hyvä tietää enemmän järjestelyiden hoitamisesta ennakkoon. Koulut toivoivat myös saavansa tietää vierailijoiden kiinnostuksenkohteista tarkemmin. Silloin myös koulut pystyvät valmistautumaan vierailuihin paremmin.

Yritämme aina mahdollisuuksien mukaan järjestää vierailuja niin, että molemmat osapuolet hyötyvät vierailuista mahdollisimman paljon. Esimerkiksi ranskankielisiä vieraita ohjataan kouluihin, joissa opetetaan ranskaa, ja vaikkapa kuvataiteesta kiinnostuneet osallistujat pääsisivät kuvataiteen painotettuun opetukseen.

Kehitysehdotuksia:

• tieto vierailuista aiemmin, jotta jäisi paremmin aikaa valmistautumiseen
• parempi tieto järjestelyiden hoitamisesta ennakkoon (lounas, lomakkeet)
• vierailijoiden kiinnostuksenkohteet olisi hyvä tietää tarkemmin

Taulukko 1. Lainauksia opettajien palautteista:

Suomalaisten koulujen edustajien vastauksista oli luokittelemalla havaittavissa kolme pääteemaa:

• Teema 1. Kokemusten jakaminen
• Teema 2. Kulttuurien kohtaaminen
• Teema 3. Vaihtelu arkeen ja vieraiden hyödyntäminen opetuksessa

Eniten esiintyi vastauksia liittyen kokemusten jakamiseen ja käytyihin keskusteluihin Eurooppalaisten kollegoiden kanssa. Esimerkiksi mainittiin jaetut kokemukset opetuksesta ja koulumaailmasta. Toinen esiin noussut teema oli kulttuureiden kohtaaminen. Tämä nousi tärkeänä tekijänä esiin vastauksissa. Eri kulttuureista oppiminen oli arvokasta niin opettajille kuin oppilaille.

Kolmas teema oli vaihtelu arkeen ja vierailijoiden hyödyntäminen opetuksessa. Vieraat toivat arkeen vaihtelua ja
pystyivät oppimaan uutta opettajilta. Useat vieraat osallistuivat aktiivisesti opetukseen.  Vierailevat opettajat myös avarsivat oppilaiden ajatusmaailmaa ja ymmärsivät esimerkiksi kielten opiskelun konkreettisen hyödyn.

Yhtenä kysymyksenä kysyttiin opettajilta, kokivatko he vierailun hyödyllisenä ja opetusta rikastuttavana. Heiltä kysyttiin myös mitä keinoja käytettiin tämän saavuttamiseen. Osallistuvat opettajat saivat osallistua tunteihin. He pääsivät esimerkiksi pitämään kyselytunnin, esitelmän omasta maastaan, ja yhdessä koulussa johtoryhmän kokoukseen jakamaan kokemuksiaan. Kansainvälisestä toiminnasta tuli taas normaalimpaa.

Hyödyt suomalaisille kouluille:

• Stipendit oppilaille: Palkitsemme kaikki koulut aina stipendeillä, joita voi jakaa kansainvälisestä toiminnasta
  kiinnostuneille oppilaille.
• Vierailut voivat avata oven vastavuoroisiin vierailuihin.
• Vähemmän säätöä ja paperityötä verrattuna siihen, että hoitaisi prosessin kokonaan itse.
• Helppo mahdollisuus kansainvälistymiseen ilman Erasmus-hakemusta tai eTwinning-osaamista.

Vierailevien opettajien vastaukset:

“The job shadowing experience was positive as it allowed us to explore the methodologies, teaching material and tools used to acquire skills. It was certainly an opportunity for growth and comparison.”

• 168 vastaajaa lukuvuoden 2022-2023 aikana
• Kaikki tähän kyselyyn vastanneet osallistuivat Erasmus+ Job Shadowing -jaksolle, eli tulivat Suomeen Erasmus apurahalla.

Taulukko 2. Vierailevien opettajien palautteita Job Shadowing -jaksoista: Mitkä asiat olivat parhaita?

Kolme teemaa, jotka olivat havaittavissa vastauksissa:

1. Cultural Exchange and Learning
2. Professional Development and Inspiration
3. Hospitality and Organization

Taulukko 3. Job Shadowing -kokemus suomalaisissa kouluissa (N=164)

Yllä oleva taulukko havainnollistaa vierailijoiden kokemusta kouluissa. Lisäksi noin puolet vastaajista, 47 prosenttia, arvioi yleiset järjestelyt erinomaisiksi ja 96 prosenttia arvioi ne vähintään hyviksi.

160/164 vastaajaa eli 97.5 % vastaajista suosittelisi Erasmus+ Job Shadowing -vierailua kollegoilleen.

Erasmus+ Yleissivistävän ohjelman tavoitteita

Erasmus+ yleissivistävän ohjelman tavoitteena on muun muassa eurooppalaisen ulottuvuuden vahvistaminen. Monikielisyys ja kielitaidon kehittyminen ovat myös tärkeitä osia tässä ohjelmassa.  (Erasmus plus 2023)

Yhteenveto

Tyytyväisyyskyselyistä saadut tulokset vastaavat Erasmus+ ohjelmalle asetettuja tavoitteita ja hyötyjä, kuten kielitaidon kehittymistä ja digitaitojen kehittymistä.  Kielitaidon kehittyminen oli mainittu monissa palautteissa. Moni vastaaja toi esille koulutusjärjestelmien vertailun. Vertaileva kasvatustiede kuvaa eroja koulutusjärjestelmissä. Koulujärjestelmien erojen konkretisoituminen on arvokasta, ja kaikki osapuolet hyötyvät
vertailevasta keskustelusta.

Tyytyväisyyskyselymme osoittivat sekä osallistujien että vastaanottavien opettajien olleen tyytyväisiä yhteistyöhön. Keskimäärin molemmat osapuolet olivat hyvin tyytyväisiä vierailuun, ja molemmat
osapuolet hyötyivät vierailusta. 

In the time of home-based online teaching and studying the lack of exercise, daily structure, change of environments and social bonding with peers and colleagues may create a situation, in which self-constructed ‘structure & program’ may be necessary. When sitting the whole day in front of the computer, our body consumes less energy and brain more, which sets challenges for our habits of eating and exercising. With typical heavy meals, our body has more energy than it can consume during the day. When ‘locked’ in the home all the time, our mind starts to escape into virtual reality (such as tv, social media, youtube…). Thus studying and teaching remotely provides a relevant channel for our mind to ‘wander’ out of the walls of our apartment. 

Traditionally the children have been walking, bicycling, or even skiing to the school. In the rural areas (as most of the Finnish population was still living in the fifties) the youngsters of the family took part in the physical work of the house. After working the afternoons and skiing or walking several kilometers to the nearest school, it was a privilege to sit and listen to the teacher talking. Also, the sleep came early after the heavy ‘work’, which ensured the deeper ‘brain curing’ sleep quality. Nowadays the comfortable warm apartments, computer games, and easily digestible supermarket food set a challenge for early sleep and ‘sitting-based’ teaching culture. In these conditions, it is not a wonder, that the kids have a need to run and move around. As research shows us, early night sleep ‘cleans’ our brain better than morning sleep. If we cannot change our (own or our students’) ability to concentrate or we cannot change the external conditions either, the only thing we can try to have an effect is our daily routines of eating, exercising, and sleeping. If those are adjusted properly, the rest is much easier. As teachers our influence on students’ home conditions is limited, but if we manage to awoke our students’ interest and study the effects of food, exercise and sleep together with them, they may find the motivation to begin to alter their routines. If the students would start to keep a daily diary about the hours of sleep, food, and exercise, ‘aha’-moments might occur. As teachers, we cannot rule the home life of our students, but we can suggest a structure for the online study hours consisting of breaks with exercises. Still, the family habits are so deeply rooted, that the lasting changes occur slowly. While taking the first step of the change, studying the pros- and cons of different cultural and lifestyle aspects may be worthwhile.

What then are the benefits of using nature as an environment for learning and studying? To mention a few, the educators for many decades have been asking how to reduce the gap between theory and practice or how to make the learning more concrete and awake an authentic curiosity of the students themselves. As described above, an environment, which arises natural questions, may catalyze a useful inquiry. The ‘after-study’ of how the things met outdoors connect with the things studied inside is crucial for storing the information gained in an applicable form for further use both in academic and real-life situations.

Another concern of adults in school has been how to create cohesion in the group so that no child or youngster would feel an outsider. According to a kindergarten teacher’s daily observations, in the forest, the children naturally developed a role-play, in which the whole group of children was involved, whereas at the regular yard the children were playing in groups of 2-5 children.