Go to Europe: exchange and heritage through ICTs unity in diversity



Nick's log
I noticed some differences between the Spanish, Finnish and Japanese teaching styles during my visit. For example, when it comes to classes - although I got to observe only two of them – I noticed most pupils needed extra time until they could really concentrate. Teachers might have to make use of effective discipline methods. Pupils are supposed to summarize the important points of the class in their notebooks without talking to their classmates. Furthermore, they are supposed to stay sited most of the time. In general, the pupils there followed these rules and I found them to be quite disciplined. In my opinion, this was the most deferent thing between Spanish and Finnish classes. Finnish pupils are allowed to leave their seats, and talk to their classmates. However, in Spain and Japan, individual work is emphasized. This is undergoing change in Japan now.

From the point of view of an ICTs, Spanish and Finnish teachers used them different ways. First off, there was an Interactive Whiteboard all classes in Spain, which was different from Finland. It could help teachers conduct more interactive lessons for pupils. For example, you could put letters and pictures on the Interactive Whiteboard while connecting to the textbook that pupils are learning from. But there was a difference of how to use it and how much it is used depending on the teacher in Spain (as well as in

Japan). As for Finnish teachers, they use some kind of technology every time they teach. This is already part of their teaching routine. This was the biggest difference that I noticed.

As far as differences of pupils, Spanish pupils are very sociable and brimming with curiosity. The greatest their strength is being able to express their feeling by their behavior. They don’t hesitate to communicate with people from other countries despite them not being able to speak English. They are also keen to learn. On the other hand, Finnish pupils are very polite and a little bit shy, and hardworking when they have lessons. Even when they are excited, they don’t show their emotions a lot compared to Spanish pupils. It is similar to Japanese pupils. I found that they have different approaches to learning and thinking