EDUCATION

In Teachers We Trust: The Finnish Way to World-Class Schools

by Pasi Sahlberg & Timothy D. Walker
Norton. Mar. 2021. 240p. ISBN 9780393714005. $25.95. ED
COPY ISBN
Finnish educator Sahlberg (Finnish Lessons) and American teacher Walker (Teach LikeFinland), both of whom have experience teaching in Finland and the U.S., argue that Finnish education succeeds because it is based on trust—in schools, in teachers, and in students. They write that Americans, on the other hand, tend to mistrust their government and schools. U.S. education is dominated by standardized tests and administrative oversight, but teachers in Finland are granted professional respect and autonomy. The book includes school-based case studies that highlight the mentoring, extensive training, and collaborative approach that shape Finnish schools. The authors rely on vignettes and classroom examples to support their conclusions.
VERDICT For all readers, especially educators and parents, seeking a persuasive explanation for the excellent results of Finnish schools.
Reviewed by Elizabeth Hayford, formerly with Associated Coll. of the Midwest, Evanston, IL , Apr 09, 2021
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

NONFICTION

Math-ish: Finding Creativity, Diversity, and Meaning in Mathematics
by Boaler, Jo
NONFICTION

The American Teacher: A History
by Samuel, Lawrence R.
NONFICTION

Polished: College, Class, and the Burdens of Social Mobility
by Osborne, Melissa
MEDIA

A Most Tolerant Little Town: The Explosive Beginning of School Desegregation
by Martin, Rachel Louise
NONFICTION

Music in the Halls: The Heart and Heartbreak of Teaching at a High-Poverty School in Washington, DC
by Jankowski, Bernard
NONFICTION

Holy American Burnout!: Essays
by Enfield, Sean
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?