Assessment of learning outcomes in Sami language, Romany language and Finnish sign language in the 9th grade of basic education

03/2014–05/2016

The assessment of learning outcomes in Sami language, Romany language and Finnish sign language will focus on how well the goals set in the basic education core curriculum (2004) are attained in each of these languages. Each of the languages will be evaluated separately, and in the case of Sami all three variations of it (Inari Sami, Skolt Sami and North Sami) will be evaluated.

The assessment is conducted in the grades 7–9 of basic education. The sample is wider than usual in the assessments of learning outcomes at the end of basic education due to the small size of the target group.

The aim of the assessment is to create a comprehensive picture of the state of the teaching of each language and the realisation of educational equality at national level.

Assessment data will be collected with a series of exercises related to the various aspects of language. In addition, background surveys will be conducted among the pupils, teachers and rectors to gain information on the attitudes of the pupils and factors affecting learning results, for example, teaching arrangements and the amount of teaching provided. If needed, other methods, such as interviews, may also be used in conjunction with data collection.

The assessment tests were held in spring 2015 and the final reports are published in spring 2016.