MIT Brings Undergraduates to Explore Finland Education
From August 13 to 21, the Finnish Technology Frontier and Innovations in Education summer learning trip was conducted. This overseas learning experience, organised by the Department of Mathematics and Information Technology (MIT), led by Dr. Yang Yin Nicole and Ms. Heung Yuk Mui Elly, took 15 students on an immersive journey to Finland. The purpose of the trip was to provide MIT students with firsthand insight into Finland’s approach to AI and STEM education through visits to educational institutions and interactions with local students and educators.
Highlights of the trip below:
After a 14-hour flight followed by a 2-hour coach ride, we arrived at Turku University of Applied Science. Our first major event was the Science on Stage Festival 2024, where we saw the latest innovations and best practices in STEM education from educators across Europe. Our students engaged in meaningful dialogues with European teachers about their teaching practices.
Students were learning from the European educators on STEM education at the Science on Stage Festival 2024.
The journey continued with a visit to the ICT and EdU City at Turku University of Applied Sciences. We were introduced the concepts of learning environments in Finland universities. A well-designed learning environment considers four essential aspects to optimize educational outcomes. First, it should foster engagement and safety, enabling, inspiring, and motivating learners while ensuring they feel secure and supported. Second, the environment must encourage social learning by facilitating interactions among peers. Third, the incorporation of flexible resources and technologies is crucial. Finally, supporting online and mobile learning options is vital for modern education, as it provides learners with the flexibility to engage with their studies anytime and from anywhere.
Students completed the campus tour to learn about the innovative learning environment of Finnish universities.
Students were trying the movable chairs at the campus.
During our free time in Turku, we explored significant local sites such as the Turku Cathedral and the old market. We learned about the history and culture of this ancient Finnish capital with the help of a local tour guide. We visited the Oodi Helsinki Central Library and were touched by the words on the stairs. The words were collected through a public campaign in which anyone could suggest who the library should be dedicated to. The words told us that the library belongs to everyone, regardless of people’s origin, age, wealth or any other factor.
Group photo at the Turku Cathedral.
We visited the rock church in Helsinki.
The local tour guide introduced us to the Helsinki Senate Square.
We visited the Oodi Helsinki Central Library to understand that the library is designed for everyone.
In Helsinki, we delved into natural education with a professional wilderness guide. We participated in activities like berry picking and mushroom identification, which are integral to Finnish educational practices involving the natural environment.
Forest hiking and berry picking.
Group photo in a forest.
The last two days were spent visiting Finland's primary and secondary schools in Tampere. We first visited the Heureka Science Centre, where we engaged with AI, science, and technology in interactive and fun ways through hands-on experiments and explorations.
Throughout the various school visits, students were exposed to unique Finland education and know the Finnish education systems, including:
- Introduction to the principles behind the education system
- Paradoxes of Finnish Education: Less is More, No dead ends etc.
- STEAM Education in Finland
MIT students chatted with secondary students in a science classroom.
Students get a certificate of participation after completing the education programs organized by Learning Scoop.
This excursion proved eye-opening, showcasing the innovative educational practices that distinguish Finland’s education system. Reflecting on the trip to Finland, our group gained valuable insights. We are inspired to explore how these innovative methods could enhance teaching and student engagement in Hong Kong.
Group photo in a park.
Selected students’ sharing:
- I like the time in Heureka the most, the science museum involves a lot of AI and related knowledge that could be acquired there. Wency, SIU MAN HEI, A5B058MA
- I enjoyed the visit to the science center. The AI showcase in the science center offers learners chances to experience different kinds of machine learning algorithms, which brings me insights into AI education. Hilaria, LI HIU NAM, A5B057
- I think the most impressive experience I had on this trip was Berry Picking in the National Park since we can visit the national park to explore nature and enjoy the fun of berry picking. Michael, CHAN CHING WA, A4B095
- Visiting the Heureka Science Centre is the most impressive because there are combinations of games and learning, which makes the visit interesting and fun. Also, I got to see the actual Nobel prize plate in real life. Peter, LEUNG ON NOK, A4B095
What impressed me the most on the trip was the trip to the Helsinki library. I was impressed by the concept of the library they have there. It’s become updated to the needs of current times. MAGRAMO PIA SAMANTHA CODIAMAT, A5B057
