Finnish Language Teachers Working Abroad Update Their Knowledge in Turku
03.08.2016
Teachers teaching Finnish language and culture abroad gathered together for three days in the University of Turku facilities to update their knowledge. The annual event organised by CIMO drew together 70 of the almost 300 teachers who teach Finnish language and culture in universities abroad.
Last week, students took part in the Finnish language and modern literature summer course organised by CIMO, the expert organisation for international mobility and co-operation, and teachers participate this week.
Katri Wessel (pictured on the right), a teacher at the University of Munich, and colleagues Anna Sickl and Mikko Kajander from the University of Vienna have noticed that people in foreign universities are surprisingly often interested in Finnish language. The reason is usually a link to Finnish culture.
‒ Many students have some sort of a link to Finland. They have visited the country or like a Finnish band. Some are interested in language in general and when they want to study a more exotic European language, they pick Finnish, says Kajander.
In addition to the official programme, the event has one important task.
‒ This event provides continuing education for teachers, some of which have either been born or have lived abroad for a long time. We familiarise ourselves with the latest linguistic research and the current situation of the society, says Programme Expert Leena Kärnä from CIMO.
The theme for this year has been the 100 year history of Finland.
‒ With these introductions, we prepare the teachers for the anniversary year next year, tells CIMO Project Coordinator Jenni Mäkitalo.
Katri Wessel (pictured on the right), a teacher at the University of Munich, and colleagues Anna Sickl and Mikko Kajander from the University of Vienna have noticed that people in foreign universities are surprisingly often interested in Finnish language. The reason is usually a link to Finnish culture.
‒ Many students have some sort of a link to Finland. They have visited the country or like a Finnish band. Some are interested in language in general and when they want to study a more exotic European language, they pick Finnish, says Kajander.
In addition to the official programme, the event has one important task.
‒ We work around the world and have no colleagues nearby. This is our annual chance to meet colleagues, notes Kajander.
Text: Erja Hyytiäinen
Translation: Saara Yli-Kauhaluoma
Translation: Saara Yli-Kauhaluoma