Educational System & Student Relationships: The school psychologist role and related IQ testing are handled outside of the school system, falling under medical care instead, though there is a perceived need for more school-based social-emotional support. Teachers and students share close, respectful relationships, with students seemingly treated as young adults who view their teachers as "full humans."
Cultural Differences in Upbringing: Finnish children appear to have significantly more freedom compared to American children, who are perceived as being more sheltered. A respondent also noted that Finnish parents seem less involved in schooling.
Social and Behavioral Norms: Respondents observed a comfort with silence in group settings (which was a "pleasant surprise"), a difference in eating habits where Americans tend to eat faster and take larger bites, and that the students were already familiar with much of American pop culture and consumer experiences due to social media.
Interactions with Finnish Visitors: The people encountered were described as kind, eager to experience new things, considerate of American culture, and willing to share similarities and differences between the cultures.
Educational System & Approach: Finnish teachers were open and curious about the US education system, and respondents appreciated that students and teachers only attend school when they have classes. Students are encouraged to foster independence, and subjects like history seem to be approached differently, possibly focusing more on world history and patterns. One respondent observed that the Finnish school is small and students may have the same teachers throughout their schooling.
Student Engagement & Pride: Students are very proud of their country and thankful for their education. They are excited to explore new places and compare them to Finland, and respondents were impressed by how easily Finnish students engaged in conversations with adults.
Cultural & Language Insights: Finnish lacks a word for 'please'. Respondents noted differences in expectations regarding personal space, and that the students spoke beautiful English and impressive Finnish.
Similarities to US: In speaking with students and teachers, it became clear there are more commonalities shared between the two groups than differences
