Technology in Finnish Schools: How Digital Tools Support Student Learning

What if learning wasn’t limited to textbooks or chalkboards, but extended into the digital world—where children learn to code, collaborate online, and explore global knowledge with a tap? In Finland, this is the everyday reality.

Finnish schools are not just embracing technology—they are redefining how it should be used in education. With a focus on equality, creativity, and digital literacy, Finland is showing the world how smart, balanced, and responsible tech integration can help students thrive.

In this blog, we’ll explore how Finnish schools use digital tools in everyday learning, from smart classrooms to early coding education, and how these innovations shape student success. Whether you're a teacher, school leader, or parent, this journey through Finnish digital education will both inform and inspire you.

Finland’s Vision for Education and Technology

Finland’s education system is internationally recognized for being student-centered, equitable, and innovation-driven. These core values are reflected clearly in the nation’s approach to educational technology. In Finnish schools, technology is not a trend to chase, but a tool to support meaningful learning.

The country’s strategy is simple yet powerful: digital tools should enhance—not replace—human connection in the learning process. In other words, while students use tablets and laptops, the heart of education still lies in relationships, curiosity, and critical thinking. This philosophy is officially supported by the Finnish National Agency for Education, which provides schools across the country with a strong digital foundation. Whether a school is located in the capital city or a remote Arctic village, it receives equal access to high-quality digital resources, internet connectivity, and teacher training.

The Finnish National Agency for Education’s vision:
"The digitalisation of education aims to strengthen the knowledge and skills of learners and staff, promote pedagogical innovation, and ensure the accessibility and equality of learning environments."

This means technology is not added for the sake of appearance or novelty. Instead, Finland takes a strategic, research-based approach. Educational tech tools are carefully evaluated and integrated only when they support the core values of the national curriculum, which include:

• Critical thinking and problem solving
  
• Creative collaboration
  
• Digital literacy and media competence
  
• Student autonomy and motivation
  

A good example of this thoughtful approach is how Finnish schools avoided over-relying on screen-based tools during the digital shift. While tablets and laptops are widely used, students are also given time for offline reflection, hands-on projects, and outdoor activities, ensuring a healthy balance in their daily routines.

Ultimately, Finland sees technology not as a shortcut to learning—but as a bridge. A bridge that connects students to information, to one another, and to the skills they’ll need in a digital world.

Digital Classrooms in Practice

Step into a typical Finnish classroom, and you might be surprised by what you don’t see. Gone are the rigid rows of desks, chalkboards, and passive note-taking. Instead, you’ll find open, flexible learning environments—where students move freely, sit in small groups, and use digital tools to explore ideas together. Wireless internet is a given, and digital devices are integrated naturally into the school day. Laptops, tablets, and interactive displays are as common as pencils and notebooks—but they are not used just for the sake of technology. They serve a purpose: to make learning more dynamic, personalized, and collaborative. Here’s how digital tools come to life in Finnish classrooms:

• Smartboards bring lessons to life. Whether it’s a math problem or a geography video, teachers and students can interact with the screen—drawing, solving, or exploring in real time. It encourages participation, especially among younger learners who enjoy hands-on learning.
  

• Cloud platforms such as Google Classroom and Microsoft Teams are used widely for communication and collaboration. Students can submit assignments digitally, receive instant feedback from teachers, and even collaborate with classmates on shared documents and presentations. These tools also help streamline organization and make learning accessible from anywhere—even at home.
  

• Educational apps like Seesaw, Book Creator, and Mathletics give students opportunities to express themselves in creative ways. For example, students might record audio reflections, design digital storybooks, or practice math through game-like exercises. These apps are designed to be intuitive and work well for students of different skill levels.
  

• In many schools, learners build digital portfolios—ongoing collections of their work stored online. These portfolios help students track their progress, reflect on what they’ve learned, and showcase their creativity. They might include essays, photos, coding projects, videos, or presentations. The goal is to make students owners of their learning journey.
  

Importantly, these tools are not only for the most digitally advanced students. Finnish education emphasizes digital inclusion—ensuring that every learner, regardless of background or ability, can access and use technology confidently. Devices are provided where needed, and user-friendly platforms ensure no one is left behind.

Teaching Coding and Computational Thinking

In many countries, coding is still treated as a specialized subject introduced only in secondary school—or even university. But in Finland, the story is different. Coding and computational thinking begin in primary school, often as early as Grade 1. Young learners start with simple logic games and visual programming, laying the foundation for future digital fluency. As they move through school, their skills deepen naturally. By the time they reach middle school, many Finnish students can build basic games, animations, and even apps. But coding in Finland is about far more than just writing lines of code. It’s a way to develop problem-solving skills, logical thinking, and creativity. It teaches students how to break down problems, identify patterns, and build solutions—skills that are useful far beyond the computer screen.

To make this possible, Finnish schools use a range of accessible and age-appropriate tools:

• Scratch: A visual programming platform designed for beginners, especially younger students. Children use drag-and-drop blocks to create animated stories, interactive games, or digital art. It’s engaging, colorful, and teaches the core logic of coding without needing to type a single word.

• Python: In the upper grades, students transition to text-based coding. Python is widely used because of its readability and real-world applications—from data science to app development. Students might write simple programs that solve math problems or even control small devices.
  

• RoboLab, LEGO Mindstorms, and micro:bit: These platforms combine coding with hands-on robotics. Students build and program robots to navigate mazes, react to sensor inputs, or perform tasks. This fusion of the physical and digital worlds makes coding even more tangible and exciting.
  

What truly sets Finland apart is how real-world and community-focused these coding activities can be. In some schools, coding projects go beyond the classroom and into the community:

• A group of students created a language-learning app to help newly arrived refugee children learn Finnish through pictures and simple games.
  

• Another class developed a recycling-themed mobile game to raise environmental awareness among younger kids.
  

• Some students even use their programming skills to support local businesses by designing simple websites or promotional tools.
  

These are not isolated success stories—they reflect the Finnish belief that students are capable of creating meaningful, real-world solutions, even at a young age.

Digital Citizenship and Responsible Screen-Time Use

From the early years of school, Finnish children are guided to become not just skilled users of technology—but thoughtful digital citizens. They learn that the internet is a powerful space, full of opportunities and risks, and that using it wisely is a lifelong skill. Here are some of the key topics students explore:

• Online safety: Students are taught how to protect their personal information, create strong passwords, and recognize suspicious online behavior. They learn not to share private details with strangers and how to stay safe on social media and gaming platforms.
  

• Media literacy: In an age of information overload, Finnish students learn how to critically evaluate what they see online. They practice identifying fake news, checking sources, and asking questions like: Is this reliable? Who created this content? What is the purpose behind it?
  

• Ethics and digital behavior: Students are encouraged to treat others online with the same kindness and respect they would show in person. Discussions around cyberbullying, empathy, and respectful communication are common in classrooms. They learn that their actions online have real consequences—and that a healthy digital culture starts with each individual.
  

• Screen balance: Perhaps most importantly, Finnish schools emphasize the value of balance. Children are taught that while digital tools can be engaging and educational, it’s also important to take breaks, move their bodies, and rest their eyes. They learn when it’s time to unplug, go outside, and enjoy real-world connections.
  

This approach isn’t only the school’s responsibility. Finnish schools work in close partnership with parents to establish screen-time guidelines at home and at school. Many schools hold digital parenting workshops, where families can learn about healthy habits, device settings, and ways to support their children’s tech use.

It’s common to see school schedules where digital learning is thoughtfully balanced with:

• Outdoor play and nature walks
  

• Arts and crafts projects
  

• Face-to-face group discussions and debates
  

• Mindfulness or relaxation time
  

Even in the most digitally advanced classrooms, students spend time moving, interacting, and reflecting without a screen.

Professional Development for Teachers

Technology is only as effective as the people who use it. In Finland, this simple idea forms the backbone of digital transformation in schools. The tools themselves—tablets, apps, coding platforms—are not the focus. Empowering teachers to use them well is. That’s why professional development is a continuous and deeply embedded part of Finnish education. Rather than offering one-time workshops, Finland builds teacher growth into the daily rhythm of school life. Each school has access to ongoing training opportunities that help educators stay up to date with:

• Integrating new digital platforms into their lessons—such as learning management systems, cloud-based collaboration tools, and subject-specific apps
  

• Sharing best practices between teachers through regular peer discussions, co-teaching sessions, and joint lesson planning
  

• Creating digital learning materials tailored to student needs, often using multimedia, animations, or interactive quizzes
  

• Understanding the ethical use of AI and data, so teachers can guide students on how algorithms work, how data is collected, and how to question the role of machines in decision-making
  

Many Finnish municipalities also support schools by appointing “digital mentors.” These are experienced teachers who specialize in educational technology and provide hands-on support to their colleagues. Whether it’s setting up a new platform, trying a classroom app, or navigating a technical issue, digital mentors are trusted guides within the school community.

And here’s where Finland stands out: teachers are treated as professionals, not technicians. They are given the trust and freedom to experiment, adapt, and innovate. There’s no rigid, top-down tech policy forcing every school to use the same tool. Instead, teachers are encouraged to choose what works best for their students.

Accessibility and Equity in Tech-Enhanced Learning

One of the defining strengths of the Finnish education system is its unwavering commitment to equity. This value doesn’t just apply to traditional learning—it extends deeply into the country’s approach to digital education as well. Whether a student attends a school in downtown Helsinki or lives in a small village in Lapland, their access to digital tools and learning opportunities is guaranteed. There are no digital “haves” and “have-nots” in Finland. The aim is simple and powerful: every student should have what they need to succeed, regardless of geography, background, or ability. To make this possible, the Finnish government invests consistently in education infrastructure, ensuring all schools can implement digital learning. Support comes in several key forms:

• Funding for devices and internet: Schools are equipped with laptops, tablets, wireless networks, and technical support. If a student doesn’t have access to a device at home, one is provided. Internet subsidies are also available in rural areas where connectivity is limited.
  

• Digital textbooks and learning platforms: Students have access to high-quality, interactive digital learning materials, often available in both Finnish and Swedish, as well as in accessible formats. These platforms are regularly updated and designed to work across multiple devices.
  

• Support for students with special needs: Inclusive education is central to Finnish schools, and this includes the smart use of technology to reduce learning barriers. Teachers are trained to select tools that match individual learning profiles, whether students have cognitive, physical, or language-related challenges.
  

Assistive technologies are widely used in classrooms across the country. For example:

• A student with dyslexia might use a text-to-speech app that reads assignments aloud, helping with comprehension.
  

• Another student might benefit from speech-to-text software, allowing them to speak their responses rather than type.
  

• Some learners prefer tools with adjustable font sizes, contrast settings, or even voice command functions, making digital platforms easier to navigate.
  

• Teachers can tailor digital assessments or instructions to meet individual student needs—making learning more accessible and less stressful.
  

These tools are not seen as special exceptions—they are simply part of the normal classroom toolkit. Teachers integrate them seamlessly into daily instruction, fostering a culture of belonging and dignity for all learners.

What’s especially powerful about Finland’s model is that technology is not treated as a luxury—it’s treated as a right. The mindset is that every child, no matter their circumstance, deserves to participate fully in the modern world. And in today’s world, that means having access to the tools, skills, and support necessary to navigate digital environments confidently and creatively.

Real Success Stories

Here are three real examples of how Finnish schools are embracing technology to create meaningful learning experiences:

Saunalahti School, Espoo – Designing Digital Solutions for Everyday Problems

Saunalahti School, known for its open architecture and future-focused curriculum, encourages students to use digital tools to solve real-world challenges. In a class project, students worked in small teams to develop mobile applications that could improve everyday life in their community. One group created a recycling-tracking app for households, while another designed an app to help peers manage their homework schedule. The goal wasn’t just to build an app—it was to think critically, collaborate, and innovate using technology.

Koulumestari School, Espoo – Robotics Club Inspires Future Engineers

At Koulumestari School, students as young as 9 participate in a robotics club where they build and program robots using LEGO Mindstorms. The club became so popular that the school entered—and won—local competitions. But beyond trophies, the experience taught students how to work in teams, solve technical problems, and think algorithmically. One teacher shared that a student who previously struggled in traditional lessons “found his voice” through robotics.

Torkinmäki School, Kokkola – Digital Portfolios for Reflective Learning

At Torkinmäki School in Kokkola, students use digital portfolios to track their academic and personal growth. They upload their work, record audio reflections, and set learning goals each term. These portfolios are accessible to both students and parents, creating a transparent and collaborative learning environment. Teachers have noted that students become more engaged in their own progress and take pride in curating their digital journeys.

Looking Ahead: The Future of EdTech in Finland

What’s next for digital learning in Finland?

While Finnish schools are already known for thoughtful and effective technology use, the journey is far from over. In fact, Finland continues to explore new ways to enhance learning by integrating the latest advancements in educational technology, all while staying true to its core values of trust, creativity, collaboration, and equality. Here are some of the most exciting developments shaping the future of EdTech in Finnish schools:

• AI and adaptive learning platforms: Artificial Intelligence is already being tested in classrooms to provide personalized learning paths. These smart platforms analyze how students learn and adapt the content in real time, offering additional support or challenges based on individual performance. For example, a student who struggles with fractions might get targeted practice, while a fast learner is given more complex tasks. This makes learning more efficient, inclusive, and motivating.

• Augmented Reality (AR): Finnish educators are experimenting with AR apps to bring abstract or historical concepts to life. With AR, students can view 3D models of the human body, walk through a medieval village, or observe planetary orbits right from their classroom desks. This makes subjects like science, history, and geography more visual, interactive, and memorable.
  

• Gamification: Turning lessons into interactive challenges and story-driven missions helps keep students engaged. Finnish schools are beginning to integrate game design elements—such as points, badges, and progress levels—into digital learning apps. This motivates students to take ownership of their progress and enjoy the learning process. For example, platforms like DragonBox (a math game created in Norway and used in Finland) turn algebra into an intuitive, puzzle-solving experience.
  

• Virtual Reality (VR): VR is opening up new dimensions for immersive learning experiences. Finnish students are using VR headsets to go on virtual field trips—visiting a coral reef, exploring ancient Rome, or walking through the Louvre—all without leaving the classroom. Language classes are also using VR to simulate conversations with native speakers in real-life settings, helping students build confidence and fluency.
  

What’s important to note is that Finland doesn’t chase trends for the sake of innovation. Every new tool is evaluated through a pedagogical lens: Does it support the student? Does it make learning deeper or more meaningful? If the answer is yes, it’s explored. If not, it’s set aside.

Despite the rapid pace of technological change, Finland remains grounded in its human-centered approach to education. Technology is never allowed to overshadow the relationships between teachers and students or the joy of discovery. Instead, it’s used to strengthen those connections and expand the possibilities of learning.

A Model Worth Seeing

Finland shows us that the future of education isn’t about having the newest devices. It’s about using technology wisely, creatively, and responsibly—to support real learning, not distract from it.

From coding lessons in early grades to responsible screen-time and digital citizenship, Finnish schools have created a system that inspires innovation while staying true to human connection.

If you’re an educator, school leader, or policymaker curious about how digital learning can transform your classrooms…

Why not come and see it yourself?

TechClass offers personalized school visits to Finland, where you can walk through classrooms, talk to teachers, and experience this digital transformation firsthand.