Dr. Maarit H. Virolainen - The Finnish UAS: Towards enhancing regional and national collaboration
The Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS) were established in the 1990s when the former vocational colleges were developed to form the other pillar of the higher education system on the side of the traditional science universities. The presentation takes an overview on how the UAS have developed through several phases towards enhancing regional and national collaboration. Whereas in the 1990s much emphasis was put on upgrading and developing curriculum and pedagogy, there has been a shift toward emphasizing research and development as well as education of adult professionals.
About the speaker
Dr. Maarit H. Virolainen
Dr. Maarit H. Virolainen is a Project Researcher at the Finnish Institute for Educational Research (FIER), University of Jyväskylä, Finland. Her research focuses on work- related learning, transitions from education to the world of work and reforms of vocational education system. The national task of the FIER includes investigating, assessing, and developing the Finnish educational system and school culture.