COMPARATIVE

ANALYSIS OF
EDUCATION
SYSTEMS:
PHILIPPINES
VS. FINLAND
JULIE ANN B. FABICON
Presenter

1
 • Purpose of the presentation: To compare
and contrast the education systems of the
Philippines and Finland.
• Importance: Understanding the strengths
and weaknesses of each system and provide
INTRODUCTI insights for improving education globally.
ON: • Structure of the presentation: We will
explore key aspects such as objectives of
education, ideologies and philosophies, the
structure of education, curriculum, teaching
methodologies, assessment and evaluation,
educational programs for various levels of
education, and trends in Finnish education.
2
 Equality and Equity: Finland's education system aims to provide equal
opportunities for all students regardless of their socioeconomic background.
The objective is to minimize the achievement gap between students from
different social classes.

Holistic Development: Finnish education emphasizes the holistic development

of students, focusing not only on academic knowledge but also on social,

Objectives
emotional, and practical skills. There's a strong emphasis on creativity, critical
thinking, and problem-solving.

of Child-Centric Approach: The Finnish education system values student well-

being and happiness. Schools are designed to be supportive and nurturing

Education environments where students feel safe to express themselves and explore
their interests.

in Finland: Teacher Professionalism: Teachers in Finland are highly trained and trusted
professionals. The objective is to empower teachers to make pedagogical
decisions based on their expertise and understanding of individual student
needs.

Life-Long Learning: Finland promotes a culture of life-long learning, aiming to

equip students with the skills and attitudes needed to adapt to a rapidly
changing world. The objective is to foster a love for learning that extends
beyond formal schooling.
 Access to Education: The Philippines aims to provide universal access to
education, particularly in remote and marginalized areas where access may
be limited. The objective is to ensure that all children have the opportunity

Objectiv to attend school and complete basic education.

Employability and Economic Development: Education in the Philippines is

es of often seen as a means to enhance employability and contribute to
economic development. There's a strong emphasis on providing students
with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the workforce.
Educatio National Identity and Patriotism: Philippine education places importance

n in the on instilling a sense of national identity, pride, and patriotism among

students. The objective is to cultivate an understanding of Philippine
history, culture, and values.

Philippin Values Formation: Alongside academic knowledge, Philippine education

emphasizes values formation and character development. Schools often
es: incorporate moral and religious education to promote ethical behavior and
social responsibility.

Technological Integration: In recent years, there has been a growing focus

on integrating technology into the Philippine education system to enhance
teaching and learning outcomes. The objective is to prepare students for
the digital age and equip them with digital literacy skills.
 • Equity vs. Access: While both countries aim to provide inclusive
education, Finland focuses on equity, ensuring that all students
have equal opportunities and resources, whereas the
Philippines focuses on expanding access to education,
particularly in underserved areas.
• Holistic Development vs. Employability: Finland prioritizes
holistic development and lifelong learning, whereas the
Philippines places more emphasis on preparing students for
Objectives of Education
employment and economic advancement.
Comparis • Teacher Professionalism vs. Values Formation: Finland trusts
on: teachers as professionals and emphasizes their autonomy, while
the Philippines focuses on teachers as moral educators and role
models for values formation.
• Child-Centric vs. National Identity: Finnish education prioritizes
the well-being and happiness of students, while Philippine
education emphasizes instilling national identity and patriotism.

Overall, while both countries have unique objectives for their

education systems, they reflect the specific needs, values, and
priorities of their respective societies.
 Ideologies and Philosophies in
Finland
Progressive Education: Finland's education system is influenced by progressive educational philosophies that prioritize active
learning, student-centered approaches, and holistic development. The emphasis is on cultivating critical thinking, creativity,
and problem-solving skills rather than rote memorization.

Equity and Equality: Finland's education system is built on the principles of equity and equality, aiming to provide all
students with equal opportunities for quality education regardless of their socio-economic background. This ideology is
reflected in policies that minimize tracking, promote inclusive education, and provide comprehensive support services for
students.
Trust in Teachers: Finnish education philosophy emphasizes trust in teachers as highly qualified professionals. Teachers are
given autonomy and responsibility in designing curriculum, assessing student progress, and implementing innovative
teaching methods. There's a strong emphasis on teacher training, continuous professional development, and collaboration
among educators.

Play-Based Learning: Early childhood education in Finland is characterized by a play-based approach that values children's
natural curiosity, imagination, and exploration. Play is seen as an essential vehicle for learning and development, fostering
social, emotional, and cognitive skills in young children.

Lifelong Learning: Finnish education philosophy promotes a culture of lifelong learning, encouraging individuals to pursue
education and personal development throughout their lives. The emphasis is on fostering a love for learning and providing
opportunities for continuous growth and self-improvement.
Ideologies and Philosophies in
the Philippines
Nationalism and Patriotism: Philippine education philosophy emphasizes the importance of instilling a sense of
national identity, pride, and patriotism among students. The curriculum includes subjects such as Filipino language,
Philippine history, and civics aimed at promoting a strong sense of national consciousness and cultural heritage.

Values Education: Philippine education places a strong emphasis on values formation and character
development alongside academic learning. The curriculum includes subjects such as Values Education and Good
Manners and Right Conduct (GMRC), aiming to instill moral values, ethical behavior, and social responsibility in
students.

Colonial Legacy: The Philippines' education system has been influenced by its colonial history, with elements
of American, Spanish, and Japanese educational philosophies shaping its development. This colonial legacy
has contributed to the bilingual education policy and the inclusion of Western educational practices in the
curriculum.

Access and Equity: Philippine education philosophy recognizes the importance of providing access to education
for all citizens, particularly in rural and marginalized communities. Efforts have been made to expand access to
basic education through initiatives such as the Universal Kindergarten Law and the K-12 program, which aims to
provide quality education for all Filipino learners.

Employability and Economic Development: Given the country's socio-economic challenges, there's an emphasis on
preparing students for employment and economic self-sufficiency. Technical and vocational education and training
(TVET) programs are promoted alongside academic pathways to equip students with practical skills and competencies
for the workforce.
 • Progressive vs. Nationalistic: While Finland emphasizes
progressive, student-centered approaches to education,
the Philippines prioritizes nationalism and values
education, aiming to foster a strong sense of national
identity and pride among students.
Ideologies • Trust in Teachers vs. Values Education: Finland trusts
teachers as professionals and emphasizes their autonomy
and in curriculum development, while the Philippines
Comparis
Philosophies: emphasizes values education and moral formation as
integral components of the curriculum.
on: • Equity and Lifelong Learning vs. Access and Employability:
Finland focuses on equity, lifelong learning, and holistic
development, whereas the Philippines prioritizes access to
education, values formation, and preparing students for
employment and economic development.
Overall, while there may be some overlap in educational
philosophies between Finland and the Philippines, the
differences reflect the diverse cultural, social, and historical
contexts of each country.
The Structure of Education in Finland
Pre-primary Education Basic Education (Ages Upper Secondary
Higher Education:
(Ages 0-6): 7-16): Education (Ages 16-19):
• Not compulsory but • Compulsory for all • Consists of general • Universities and
highly encouraged. children. academic education polytechnics offer
• Focuses on play-based • Includes primary and vocational tertiary education.
learning and education (grades 1-6) education. • Universities focus on
socialization. and lower secondary • Students have the theoretical studies
• Available in daycare education (grades 7- option to choose and research.
centers and 9). between different • Polytechnics
preschools. • Emphasizes holistic study paths. (universities of applied
development, critical • Focuses on preparing sciences) provide
thinking, and students for further more practical, career-
creativity. education or entry oriented education.
• Minimal standardized into the workforce.
testing; assessment is • Graduation from
primarily formative. upper secondary
• No formal tracking education is required
until upper secondary for tertiary education.
level.
The Structure of Education in the Philippines
Pre-primary Education Basic Education (K-12 Senior High School
Tertiary Education:
(Kindergarten): System): (Grades 11-12):
• Compulsory for all 5 • Compulsory for all • Part of the K-12 system. • Universities and colleges
years old children. children. • Offers academic and offer tertiary education.
• Prepares children for • Consists of six years of technical-vocational • Various degree programs
primary education. elementary education tracks. available, including
• Includes activities to (grades 1-6) and six years • Academic track prepares bachelor's, master's, and
develop social, of secondary education students for college. doctoral degrees.
emotional, and basic (grades 7-12). • Technical-vocational • Tertiary education is not
academic skills. • Introduction of the K-12 track provides skills compulsory but highly
system aimed to training for employment. encouraged for career
enhance the quality of advancement.
education and align with
international standards.
• Curriculum includes core
subjects and values
education.
• Assessment includes
standardized tests such
as the National
Achievement Test (NAT).
 • Compulsory Education: Both Finland and the Philippines
have compulsory education, but the age ranges and
structures differ slightly.
• Emphasis on Holistic Development: Finland places a
strong emphasis on holistic development and student-
centered learning throughout all levels of education, while
the Philippines also values holistic development but may
have a more traditional approach to teaching and
assessment.
Structure of
Comparis
Education
• Differentiation in Upper Secondary Education:
Finland offers both academic and vocational tracks in
upper secondary education, while the Philippines
on: introduces this differentiation at the senior high school
level.
• Teacher Training and Professionalism: Finland's
education system highly values teacher professionalism
and autonomy, which is reflected in its teacher training
programs. The Philippines also values teacher
professionalism but may face challenges in terms of
resource allocation and training opportunities.
Overall, while both countries provide structured
education systems, there are differences in terms of
the age ranges, curriculum emphasis, and pathways
for students.
Curriculum in Finland
Flexible and Holistic • Finland's curriculum emphasizes a flexible and holistic approach to education.
• It focuses on the overall development of students, including academic, social,
Approach: emotional, and practical skills.

Interdisciplinary • Finnish curriculum encourages interdisciplinary learning, where subjects are

integrated to provide a more comprehensive understanding of concepts.
Learning: • This approach fosters critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

• Teaching in Finland is student-centered, with an emphasis on active learning and

Student-Centered collaborative activities.
• Teachers act as facilitators, guiding students to explore topics based on their
Pedagogy: interests and abilities.

• Finland's curriculum aims to instill a love for learning and promote lifelong learning
Focus on Lifelong among students.
• It encourages curiosity, independent inquiry, and self-directed learning, preparing
Learning: students for continuous personal and professional growth.

Minimal Standardized • Finland relies less on standardized testing and high-stakes examinations.
• Assessment is mainly formative and focuses on qualitative feedback to support
Testing: student learning and development.
Curriculum in the Philippines
• The curriculum in the Philippines is standardized and centrally mandated by the
Standardized government.
• It follows a structured framework with specific learning objectives and content for each
Curriculum: grade level and subject.

• The Philippine curriculum tends to be content-heavy, focusing on the mastery of subject

matter.
Content-Heavy: • There is a strong emphasis on core subjects such as Mathematics, Science, English, Filipino,
and Social Studies.

• Values education is integrated into the Philippine curriculum, aiming to instill moral values,
citizenship, and social responsibility among students.
Values Education: • Subjects like Good Manners and Right Conduct (GMRC) are included to promote ethical
behavior.

• Student-centered instruction in the Philippines is an approach to teaching that prioritizes

Student-Centered the needs, interests, and learning styles of individual students.
• Emphasizes learner-centered pedagogy and aims to develop 21st-century skills such as
Instruction: critical thinking, creativity, and communication.

• Assessment in the Philippines includes standardized tests such as the National

Standardized Achievement Test (NAT) and the College Entrance Examinations (e.g., UPCAT, ACET).
• Grades and test scores play a significant role in determining student advancement and
Testing: admission to higher education institutions.
 • Flexibility vs. Standardization: Finland's
curriculum is more flexible and emphasizes
holistic development, while the Philippines
follows a standardized curriculum with a focus
on content mastery.
• Interdisciplinary Learning vs. Subject
Specialization: Finland encourages
Curriculum interdisciplinary learning, whereas the
Comparis Philippine curriculum focuses on subject
specialization.
on: • Assessment Approach: Finland relies on
formative assessment with minimal
standardized testing, while the Philippines
utilizes standardized testing and grades for
assessment.
Overall, while both countries have distinct
approaches to curriculum development and
implementation, they reflect different
educational philosophies and priorities.
Teaching Methodologies in
Finland
Student-Centered
• Finnish teaching methodologies prioritize student-centered approaches where students are
active participants in their learning.
• Teachers act as facilitators, guiding and supporting students in their exploration of topics based
Approach: on their interests and abilities.

Collaborative • Collaborative learning is encouraged in Finnish classrooms, where students work together in
groups to solve problems, discuss ideas, and complete projects.
Learning: • This fosters teamwork, communication skills, and critical thinking.

Inquiry-Based • Finland emphasizes inquiry-based learning, where students are encouraged to ask questions,
investigate phenomena, and seek answers through research and experimentation.
Learning: • This approach promotes curiosity, independent thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Project-Based
• Project-based learning is common in Finnish education, where students engage in hands-on,
real-world projects that integrate multiple subjects.
• Projects are often student-led and allow for creativity, exploration, and application of
Learning: knowledge.

Use of Technology as a
• Technology is integrated into teaching methodologies as a tool to enhance learning experiences
rather than replace traditional teaching methods.
• Teachers leverage digital resources, multimedia, and online platforms to support instruction
Tool: and engage students.
Teaching Methodologies in the
Philippines • The Philippines aim to empower students to become independent, lifelong learners
Student-Centered who are capable of critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving.
• It promotes a learner-centric classroom environment where students are actively
Approach: engaged and motivated to learn.

Memorization and • Rote learning and memorization play a significant role in Philippine classrooms, where
students are expected to memorize facts, formulas, and information for examinations.
Rote Learning: • Repetition and drills are used to reinforce learning and ensure mastery of content.

Group Discussions and • Students are encouraged through group discussions and recitations where students
participate in class discussions, answer questions, and share their understanding of the
Recitations: material.

• Visual aids such as charts, diagrams, and multimedia presentations are commonly used
Use of Visual Aids and by teachers to supplement instruction and enhance understanding.
• Demonstrations and hands-on activities may also be employed to illustrate concepts
Demonstrations: and engage students in learning.

• Values education is integrated into teaching methodologies in the Philippines, where

Integration of Values teachers incorporate moral lessons and ethical considerations into classroom
discussions and activities.
Education: • Teachers serve as role models for students, imparting values such as respect, honesty,
and diligence.
 • Inquiry-Based Learning vs. Rote Learning: Finland emphasizes
inquiry-based learning and critical thinking, whereas the Philippines
relies more on rote learning and memorization of facts.
• Collaborative Learning vs. Individual Learning: Finnish classrooms
promote collaborative learning and teamwork, while Philippine
Teaching classrooms may focus more on individual learning and performance.
Comparis
Methodologie • Technology Integration: Finland uses technology as a tool to enhance
s on: learning experiences, while the Philippines may utilize technology
primarily for supplemental resources and presentations.

Overall, while both countries have different teaching methodologies,

they reflect the cultural, social, and educational contexts of each
nation.
 Assessment and Evaluation in
Finland • Finland emphasizes formative assessment, focusing on providing
Formative continuous feedback to support student learning and development.
• Assessment is integrated into everyday teaching practices and is used to
Assessment: inform instruction and address individual student needs.

• Assessment in Finland focuses on qualitative feedback rather than

Qualitative quantitative scores.
• Teachers provide descriptive feedback that highlights students' strengths,
Feedback: areas for improvement, and next steps for learning.

• Evaluation in Finland is student-centered, with an emphasis on self-

Student-Centered assessment and reflection.
• Students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning and actively
Evaluation: participate in setting goals and monitoring their progress.

• Finland relies less on standardized testing compared to other countries.

Limited Standardized • National assessments are conducted periodically to gather data on

Testing: educational outcomes, but they are not high-stakes and do not heavily
influence student advancement or school accountability.
Assessment and Evaluation in
the Philippines
The Philippines utilizes summative assessment, which focuses on evaluating student learning at the
Summative end of a unit, course, or school year.
Assessment: Assessment is often conducted through standardized tests, quizzes, and examinations.

Assessment in the Philippines tends to focus on quantitative scores and grades.

Quantitative
Students' performance is measured based on numerical scores, and grades play a significant role in
Scores: determining academic achievement and progression.

High-Stakes Standardized tests such as the National Achievement Test (NAT) and college entrance exams (e.g.,
UPCAT, ACET) are high-stakes and can significantly impact students' future educational
Testing: opportunities.

Teacher- Evaluation in the Philippines is typically teacher-directed, with educators responsible for assessing
student performance and assigning grades.
Directed While there may be opportunities for student self-assessment, the emphasis is often on teacher-
Evaluation: driven evaluation.
 • Formative vs. Summative Assessment: Finland
prioritizes formative assessment to support ongoing
learning, while the Philippines focuses more on
summative assessment to measure final outcomes.
• Qualitative vs. Quantitative Feedback: Finland
emphasizes qualitative feedback to guide student
learning, whereas the Philippines emphasizes
quantitative scores and grades.
Assessment • Student-Centered vs. Teacher-Directed
Comparis
and Evaluation: Finland promotes student-centered
evaluation, encouraging self-assessment and
Evaluation
on: reflection, while the Philippines relies more on
teacher-directed evaluation.
• Limited vs. High-Stakes Testing: Finland utilizes
limited standardized testing with low stakes, while the
Philippines relies on high-stakes testing, which can
have significant consequences for students' academic
futures.
Overall, while both countries use assessment
and evaluation to measure student learning,
they differ in their approaches, priorities, and
 Educational Programs for Various Levels of Education in Finland

Early Childhood Basic Education (Grades Upper Secondary

Higher Education:
Education: 1-9): Education:
• Finland offers • Finnish basic • Upper secondary • Finland's higher
comprehensive early education spans education in Finland education system
childhood education grades 1 to 9, typically caters to students includes universities
for children aged 0-6. covering ages 7 to 16. aged 16 to 19. and polytechnics
• It emphasizes play- • It provides a broad and • It offers both academic (universities of applied
based learning and flexible curriculum and vocational tracks sciences).
fosters social, focused on holistic to cater to diverse • Universities offer
emotional, and development and student interests and academic programs
cognitive interdisciplinary career aspirations. leading to bachelor's,
development. learning. • Upper secondary master's, and doctoral
• The curriculum aims to education focuses on degrees.
develop students' preparing students for • Polytechnics provide
critical thinking, further education, vocational education
creativity, and employment, and and training as well as
problem-solving skills. active citizenship. applied research
opportunities.
 Educational Programs for Various
Levels of Education in the Philippines
Early Childhood Basic Education (K- Senior High School
Tertiary Education:
Education: 12 System): (Grades 11-12):

The Philippines offers The Philippines Senior high school in the Tertiary education in the
kindergarten education implemented the K-12 Philippines offers Philippines includes
for children aged 5 to 6 program, extending basic academic and technical- universities, colleges, and
as part of early childhood education to 12 years. vocational tracks. vocational institutions.
education. It includes six years of Academic tracks prepare Universities offer
Kindergarten aims to primary education students for college, undergraduate and
prepare children for (grades 1-6) and six years while technical- graduate programs
formal schooling by of secondary education vocational tracks provide leading to bachelor's,
developing basic skills (junior high school and skills-based education for master's, and doctoral
and readiness for senior high school). immediate employment degrees.
learning. The curriculum includes or entrepreneurship. Colleges provide
core subjects such as specialized programs in
Mathematics, Science, various fields, including
English, Filipino, and technical and vocational
Social Studies, as well as education.
specialized tracks in
senior high school.
 • Comprehensive Early Childhood Education: Finland
offers comprehensive early childhood education,
whereas the Philippines focuses on kindergarten as part
of early childhood preparation.
• Flexible vs. Structured Curriculum: Finland's basic
education curriculum is flexible and focuses on holistic
Educational development, while the Philippines follows a structured
curriculum with specific learning objectives and subjects.
Programs for
Comparis
Various Levels
• Academic vs. Vocational Tracks: Finland's upper
secondary education offers both academic and
on:
of Education vocational tracks, providing diverse pathways for
students, whereas the Philippines introduced vocational
tracks in senior high school as part of the K-12 program.
• Higher Education Structure: Both countries offer
higher education opportunities through universities and
colleges, with Finland also including polytechnics that
focus on applied sciences and vocational education.
Overall, while both Finland and the Philippines aim
to provide education for all levels, their approaches,
structures, and priorities reflect their unique
contexts and educational philosophies.
 Trends in Finnish Education
• Finland's education system is known for its commitment to continuous improvement. Educators, policymakers, and stakeholders regularly
Continuous Improvement Approach: review and refine educational practices to adapt to changing societal needs and emerging trends in education.

• Finland places a strong emphasis on equity and inclusivity in education. Efforts are made to ensure that all students, regardless of their
Focus on Equity and Inclusivity: background or circumstances, have equal access to quality education and support services.

• Finnish education embraces the integration of technology in teaching and learning. While technology is not used as a replacement for
Integration of Technology: traditional teaching methods, it is seen as a valuable tool to enhance learning experiences, promote digital literacy, and facilitate
personalized learning.
• Finland values teacher professionalism and invests in high-quality teacher training programs. Teachers are highly respected professionals
Emphasis on Teacher Training and with extensive pedagogical knowledge and autonomy in their classrooms. Continuous professional development is encouraged to keep
Professionalism: educators updated with the latest research and best practices in education.

• Finnish education promotes a culture of lifelong learning beyond formal schooling. The education system aims to equip students with the
Promotion of Lifelong Learning: skills, attitudes, and motivation to pursue continuous personal and professional development throughout their lives.

Globalization and • Finland recognizes the importance of preparing students for a globalized world. Efforts are made to internationalize the curriculum, foster
Internationalization: global competence, and provide opportunities for international collaboration, exchange programs, and cross-cultural learning experiences.

Well-being and Mental Health • Finnish education prioritizes student well-being and mental health. Schools provide comprehensive support services to address the social,
Support: emotional, and psychological needs of students, fostering a positive school environment conducive to learning and personal growth.

• Finland integrates environmental sustainability education into the curriculum to promote environmental awareness, responsibility, and
Environmental Sustainability stewardship. Students learn about environmental issues, conservation efforts, and sustainable practices to become environmentally
Education: conscious citizens.
• Finnish schools are increasingly adopting flexible learning spaces that accommodate diverse learning styles and collaborative activities.
Flexible Learning Spaces: Classrooms are designed to facilitate interaction, creativity, and active engagement among students, promoting a dynamic learning
environment.
• Finnish education emphasizes collaboration and partnerships with parents, communities, businesses, and other stakeholders. Schools work
Community Engagement and closely with local communities to create inclusive learning environments, leverage resources, and foster a sense of belonging and civic
Partnerships: responsibility.
 Key
Similarities: Emphasis on Equity: Both countries
recognize the importance of providing
equal opportunities for all students
regardless of socio-economic
background.
COMPARATI
VE Teacher Professionalism: Both the
Philippines and Finland value highly
ANALYSIS: qualified teachers and invest in
KEY continuous professional development.
SIMILARITIE
S Commitment to Lifelong Learning: Both
education systems prioritize the
development of lifelong learners
equipped with essential skills for personal
and professional growth.
 Key Differences:

COMPARATI Curriculum Design: While the Philippine curriculum is

structured around a K-12 framework with specialized
VE tracks, the Finnish curriculum emphasizes
ANALYSIS: interdisciplinary learning and flexibility.
KEY Assessment Practices: The Philippines relies heavily
on standardized testing for student evaluation,
DIFFERENC whereas Finland places less emphasis on formal
ES assessments and focuses on qualitative feedback.
Resource Allocation: Finland allocates resources more
equitably across schools, whereas the Philippines
faces challenges related to funding, infrastructure, and
teacher shortages.
Summary:

Finland and the Philippines have distinct approaches to education,

reflecting their unique cultural, historical, and socio-economic
contexts. Finland's education system emphasizes flexibility, holistic
development, student-centered learning, and continuous
improvement. In contrast, the Philippines follows a structured
curriculum, places importance on standardized testing, and values
teacher-led instruction. While Finland prioritizes equity, teacher
professionalism, and well-being, the Philippines focuses on access,
values education, and community partnerships. Despite their
differences, both countries aim to provide quality education for all and
prepare students for success in an evolving world. Understanding the
strengths and challenges of each system can inform efforts to
improve education and better serve students' diverse needs.
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