1. w w w. a o k k. f i Developing systems for vocational teacher qualification improvement Kaunas 28 June 2007 Kristiina Volmari Vocational Teacher Qualification Improvement: Conception and experience in Finland

2. w w w. a o k k. f i Basic ideologies affecting VET teacher education Little regulation: strong autonomy of institutions Trust in local actors Close connection between theory and practice Prominent role of the world of work Teachers reflective practitioners

3. w w w. a o k k. f i How is VET TE regulated in Finland? Qualification requirements: Higher education degree 3 years of work experience 60 ECTS pedagogical training

4. w w w. a o k k. f i Regulation concerning pedagogical training 1)Studies in pedagogy 2)Studies in vocational education & pedagogy 3)Teaching practice 4)Other studies

5. w w w. a o k k. f i Instead of regulation – “Self-steering” Voluntary cooperation between TE institutions = Joint strategy = Regular meetings of directors = Joint 2-day seminar for all staff every year Competition for students Quality assurance: self-evaluation

6. w w w. a o k k. f i Competences acquired in TE (example HAMK) 1. Developing the self 2. Interaction and communication 3. Vocational pedagogy & instruction 4. Understanding the operational environment 5. Development and change Competence and qualification in vocational field

7. w w w. a o k k. f i Example of content (HAMK) 5. Development and change The teacher student can: research and develop teacher’s work and quality of education anticipate changes in working life and needs for change understand, initiate and implement change processes, e.g. projects solve problems and make decisions creatively in his/her work acquire and process information of own field and evaluate it critically

8. w w w. a o k k. f i Development of the TE curriculum Independently by all VET TE institutions Every 1-2 years All staff participate Signals from the field: most teacher students already working as teachers Signals from the wider world: R & D prominent part of activities