The Finnish Model of Teaching Religion in Public Schools: A Beneficial Approach for Society

Teaching religion to students in public schools can be a complex and sensitive issue. However, as a university-trained teacher of religion, I have observed and studied the Finnish model of religious education, which offers a unique and potentially beneficial approach. This model promotes tolerance, respect, and critical thinking among students, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and peaceful society.

Understanding the Finnish Model

The Finnish educational system has developed a special model of religious education that caters to a diverse range of students. This model is multi-faceted, offering tailored curricula based on the student's religious background or non-religious identity.

Religious Education for Those with Backgrounds:
- Cultural Muslims: Learn more about the dogmas, history, and teachings of Islam. - Orthodox Christians: Study their own tradition in-depth, including history, ethics, and views of the faith. - Lutheran Parents' Children: Gain knowledge about the history, ethics, and views of the Lutheran faith. - Minorities with Government-Approved Curricula: Follow a curriculum that respects their cultural identities and choices.

Religious Education for Non-Religious Students:
Elmkatsomustieto or worldview education focuses on ethics, humanism, and world heritage. It covers a wide range of subjects such as social identity, ideologies, cultures, activism, power, gender identity, and grounds for atheism.

Objectives and Goals of the Finnish Model

The primary objective of this religious education is to ensure that every Finnish child has a basic understanding of all world religions and their diversity. This is achieved through a focus on:

Right facts and accurate information. Peaceful cooperation between different ideologies and religions. Respect for cultural and individual identities. Critical thinking in both ideological and religious areas.

Additionally, students are encouraged to become knowledgeable about the major world religions, such as Catholicism and Islam, as well as the critical evaluations of religious thought. This balanced approach ensures that students are well-informed and respectful of diverse viewpoints.

Critiques and Strengths of the Finnish Model

While the Finnish model may not be perfect, it has been carefully developed through multiple compromises. Some teachers still may try to indoctrinate their beliefs, but the majority of teachers are well-educated with a university degree in the subject. They strive to remain objective in their teaching.

The law strictly separates religious practices from school activities, with the exception of culturally important traditional hymns sung at school celebrations. Given these guidelines, the model successfully promotes constructive and relatively objective religious education.

Personal Perspectives on Improving the Finnish Model

As a teacher, I believe that the Finnish model can be further improved. Adding age-appropriate choices for students and enhancing life stance education could be beneficial. Introducing ethics education for small children could help in understanding the differences between facts and faith.

I would also suggest that the study of religious traditions could be introduced after students have a basic understanding of ethics and humanism. This approach allows children to grasp fundamental moral concepts before delving into more complex religious teachings.

The Benefits for Society

Teaching religion in public schools can benefit society in numerous ways:

Fighting Stereotypes and Fake News: Accurate knowledge helps combat misinformation and promotes a more informed society. Reducing Religious Fanaticism: Exposing students to their own and different worldviews can reduce the risk of extremism. Critical Thinking: Engaging with diverse ideas enhances analytical skills and promotes a more mature understanding of the role of religions. Constructing Cohesive Views: Students learn to value both scientific rigor and philosophical inquiry. Respect and Inclusion: Religious education fosters a sense of belonging and mutual respect among students.

In Finland, this approach has led to a society with very few politicians claiming that religion should influence political decisions. Furthermore, knowledge about mythical stories has inspired creativity in art, literature, and other creative fields.

While the Finnish model is not without its challenges, it has proven to be a valuable tool in promoting an inclusive, educated, and respectful society.