A recent study reveals that Finnish undergraduate students demonstrate superior critical thinking skills upon entering higher education compared to their American counterparts. This research was executed by Professor Heidi Hyytinen and Doris Zahner. To do so, they collected data from nearly 2,500 Finnish students and nearly 50,000 U.S. students from all types of institutions. These findings were later published in the Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education.
These are worlds apart for the two respective groups. Finnish students clearly demonstrate much better critical thinking and argumentation skills. This advantage is explained almost entirely by educational and socioeconomic background factors.
Study Overview and Methodology
The study focused on undergraduate students of similar colleges in each country. The majority of the Finnish students tested were during their third year of study. By comparison, most of their U.S. counterparts were in their fourth year on the job. This difference in educational attainment likely contributes to the skill gaps we observe.
The findings indicate that almost 60% of Finnish undergraduates only possess at best a satisfactory level of critical thinking skills. Only about 40% of them show a deep level of mastery in these foundational skills.
“In any case, the data show that nearly 60% of Finnish undergraduate students have critical thinking skills that can be described as satisfactory at best, while around 40% have good skills in critical thinking. The key factors explaining differences in Finnish students’ skill levels are related to educational and socioeconomic background.”
Finnish undergraduates come to higher ed with more developed skills and knowledge. The study concluded that of the four participating countries, U.S. students had the largest average improvements in higher-order skills, like critical thinking, while in college. This suggests that higher education institutions in the U.S. might be more effective at fostering critical thinking development as students progress through their studies.
Learning Gains Among Students
The researchers pointed out a substantial imbalance in the gains from learning. That can have long-term implications for graduates from either educational system. American students are becoming better critical thinkers as they move up through the grades. By comparison, while Finnish students start off with an advantage, they don’t appear to hone these skills quite as well.
One thing to take away from the study is the need for deeper analysis of the structural educational systems in both countries. It also raises questions about how critical thinking skills are taught and assessed throughout primary, secondary, and postsecondary education. Recognizing these differences can help to educate policymakers and practitioners looking to improve the curriculum and pedagogical practices of their classroom.
Implications for Higher Education
In short, the implications are clear. Our educational systems are best served when we look to proven strategies employed by like-minded counterparts across the globe. By filling these voids, colleges and universities can develop a catalyst for change while simultaneously creating a more engagement-ready graduate and fostering student success.
The findings suggest that educational systems may benefit from adopting successful strategies used by counterparts in other countries. By addressing these gaps, institutions can potentially improve student outcomes and better prepare graduates for future challenges.