riiki

Business College is developing new methods for learning the Finnish language

At Business College Helsinki, practical methods have been developed to support immigrant students in learning Finnish and integrating into working life.

Language is seen as a key factor in securing internships and employment, and emphasis is placed on real-world language use. Here are two examples of successful initiatives: the Media Workshop and the Workplace Finnish course. International DI-VET project is developing on the job practices, training and tools.

Media Workshop – Building Confidence and Fluency Through Collaboration

The Media Workshop is designed especially for students whose mother tongue is not Finnish. Several subjects – such as Finnish as a second language, Digital Working Environment, Art and Culture, and English – are integrated into collaborative projects. Students work together to create a magazine, visit companies, read Finnish books and produce podcasts, and interview professionals from different workplaces.

“The biggest benefit of the Media Workshop is the increased courage to speak Finnish. Students dare to speak more, and their skills improve much faster.” – Ritva Pakkanen, Media Workshop teacher

The collaborative and discussion-based nature of the workshop allows for significantly more oral practice than traditional individual classroom tasks.

Helsinki Business College Ltd. international students, talents and staff in international DI-VET project.

In the latest magazine issue, students interviewed company representatives – not only to practice Finnish but also to build professional contacts that may help in finding internship opportunities later.

Link to the issue

Workplace Finnish – Language for Real Life and the Job Market

Another key observation has been that everyday and workplace language is colloquial, not the formal language usually taught in school. To address this, the Workplace Finnish course is offered alongside the internship period. Students meet weekly to engage in discussions and exercises with a teacher.

“People don’t speak standard Finnish at work – they speak everyday language. This course helps students cope in real working life.” – Pia Kankare, Workplace Finnish teacher

Employers have responded very positively and are flexible in allowing students to attend. Experience has shown that well-organized, motivated groups appreciate the opportunity to share their internship experiences in a supportive environment.

“It has been suggested that the group’s own tutor, who knows the students best, could sometimes join the sessions”, says Catherine Rönnqvist.

Helsinki Business College’s International DI-VET project is developing on the job learning practices, training and tools.