Why+Curriculum+Reform?

In the 1960s, Finland, a relatively poor nation still recovering from the effects of WWII, decides to invest in their education system acknowledging that "...the general level of education had to rise to support the nation’s economic growth (Aho et. al, 2006 p. 35). Early stages of curricular reform paid special attention to "... children’s talents and how children’s distinctive characteristics affected the reform. Experts drafted reports based on research concerning children’s psychological and physical development. The work was marked by a sincere desire to take a student-oriented approach and to capitalize on the researchers’ versatile expertise." (Aho et. al, 2006 p. 43)
 * 1970's
 * Dual school system (public and private) replaced by single 9 year "comprehensive system", a reform which " represented a profound shift in social policy. It furthered Finland’s democratization process and eroded traditional class structures and boundaries" (Aho et. al, 2006, p.45)
 * First national curriculum introduced- very centralized, prescriptive
 * Teacher education reform: education programs improved, extended and moved to universities

1980's
 * Emphasis begins on decentralization
 * 1985 National Core Curriculum reform introduced
 * “ability groupings” removed

1990s
 * Further decentralization in 1994 resulting in a “thinner” curriculum
 * More freedom demanded by teachers & qualifications increasing
 * School inspections abolished
 * Curricular reform focused on science, technology, and innovation- emphasized how to teach students to manage their own learning and think creatively. Enacted in response to a poor economy and decision to funnel resources into the telecommunications sector. (Nokia!)
 * Emphasis on cooperative learning
 * Common Pro-D theme questions “What is knowledge?” “How do pupils learn?” “How do schools change?” (Sahlberg, 2010, p. 34)

2000s
 * New national curriculum introduced in 2004-more guidance sought so core curriculum is strengthened/lengthened
 * Importance of local curricula highlighted-Further strengthened local municipal role and responsibilities
 * Emphasized goals over content
 * Student welfare, individualized learning and special education emphasized || [[image:Classroom1950.jpg width="160" height="119" align="center"]]

||