JYU’s Innovative Learning Environments’ Emerging Research Collaborations with Mainland China and Hong Kong: A New Chapter

The University of Jyväskylä (JYU) and the Finnish Institute for Educational Research (FIER) had the honor of hosting a delegation from the China National Academy of Educational Sciences (CNAES). The meeting represented an important milestone in enhancing international collaboration in the field of educational research.

Published

31.5.2024

Kristof Fenyvesi

On May 3, 2024, the University of Jyväskylä (JYU) and the Finnish Institute for Educational Research (FIER) had the honor of hosting a delegation from the China National Academy of Educational Sciences (CNAES). This event, held at the university library (Lähde), marked a significant step towards fostering international collaboration in the field of educational research.

Strengthening International Networks

The visit was a prime opportunity for JYU’s Innovative Learning Environments (ILE) research group to showcase its work and explore new avenues for cooperation. The ILE group, which includes researchers, university lecturers, PhD students, and master’s students from the Faculty of Information Technology and JYU FIER, has a rich history of collaborating with both national and international research institutes, public sector entities, and companies. This event further enriched these connections and opened doors to new possibilities.

Highlights of the Program

Prof. Taina Saarinen, the Director of JYU FIER has hosted the whole event. The day began with a warm welcome from Prof. Päivi Häkkinen, Vice Director of JYU FIER and Dr. Kristóf Fenyvesi, ILE researcher, setting the tone for a series of insightful presentations and discussions.

The CNAES delegation, led by Vice-President Mr. Wang Ming, shared their expertise in macro education policy and basic education, providing a comprehensive overview of current research and policy initiatives of the Chinese National Academy.

The Chinese National Academy Delegation

The distinguished members of the Chinese delegation included:

Mr. Wang Ming, Vice-President of CNAES and Senior Research Fellow, with main research interests in macro education policy and basic education.
Mr. Deng Youchao, Director of National Office of Education Sciences Planning at CNAES, focusing on educational theory and macro-education.
Mr. Wang Jian, Director of Institute of Education Finance at CNAES, specializing in education development strategy, education finance, and private education.
Mr. Li Tie’an, Director of Institute of Basic Education at CNAES, with expertise in curriculum and pedagogy, history of mathematical culture, classroom teaching reform, and school culture construction.
Ms. Xu Congcong, Deputy Director of Department of International Cooperation and Exchanges at CNAES, who played a crucial role in the international coordination of this event, ensuring smooth and effective collaboration between JYU and CNAES.

School Visit Led by teacher and researcher, Jukka Sinnemäki

One of the standout moments of the day was the school visit to Jyväskylä Christian School, hosted by Jukka Sinnemäki. The delegation had the opportunity to observe the innovative educational practices and participate in the school's Talent Show. This visit highlighted Finland's commitment to fostering creativity and holistic development in education, providing the CNAES delegation with valuable insights into effective educational strategies.

Key presentations of the day:

Introduction to JYU by Prof. Marja-Leena Laakso, Vice Rector of JYU
Overview of JYU FIER by Prof. Taina Saarinen, Director of JYU FIER
Insight into JYU FIER ILE by Dr. Kristóf Fenyvesi and group members
GINTL China and India Cooperations presented by Dr. Olli-Pekka Malinen, Dr. Jenny Shuanghong Niu, and Ms. Apoorwa Hooda
Introduction of GRIFE by Dr. Yuzhuo Cai

These sessions highlighted the extensive research capabilities and collaborative efforts at JYU, particularly in innovative learning environments, STEM, STEAM, and the integration of technology and AI in education.

New Collaborations on the Horizon

The discussions during the event revealed several promising areas for future collaboration. The CNAES delegation expressed particular interest in:

Innovation and reform in basic education systems and mechanisms
Educational responses to demographic changes

These topics align well with the ongoing research at JYU, paving the way for joint projects that could significantly impact educational practices in both countries.

Future Engagements

The visit concluded with individual meetings where specific research interests and potential collaboration projects were discussed in detail. These included:

Teacher Education in Finland and at JYU by Dr. Anna-Maija Poikkeus, Dean
Insights from Finland’s PISA 2022 Results by Dr. Juhani Rautopuro
Opportunities in STEM, STEAM, and AI in education by Dr. Kristof Fenyvesi and ILE team

Insights from GINTL and GRIFE Programs

Additionally, the event provided an opportunity to learn about the Global Research Institute for Finnish Education (GRIFE) at the Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK). GRIFE aims to promote Finnish educational expertise globally through partnerships with institutions like JYU. More information can be found here.

The event also highlighted the Sino-Finnish Collaboration on Learning and Education network, which facilitates educational cooperation between China and Finland, supporting joint research projects and academic exchanges. Details can be explored here.

Hospitality at JYU ILE

A noteworthy aspect of the event was the professional assistance provided by the JYU FIER ILE's hospitality group. This team, consisting of early career researchers, Ms. Josephine Lau, Ms. Sze Wah Chan, Ms. Yan Wang, and Ms. Zhiyang Feng, excelled in translation and professional facilitation. Their commitment and skill significantly enhanced the event's success. Inspired by the collaboration, the group has decided to continue working closely with Dr. Kristóf Fenyvesi to further develop JYU FIER ILE's international capacities.

ILE researchers, Ms. Orsolya Tuba and Mr.Matias Mäki-Kuutti were making sure that logistics and event communication supported the participants all along and provided our guests a smooth experience.

Next steps taken

Dr. Kristóf Fenyvesi’s engagement with the GRIFE Network and Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU) as a Visiting Researcher further emphasizes JYU’s commitment to international collaboration. His upcoming lectures and workshops at HKMU, along with symposiums in Chengdu and Shenzhen, will continue to foster these global connections and enrich JYU’s research profile.

For more information about our research initiatives and to stay updated on future events, visit our Innovative Learning Environments page.

For further details, please contact:

Dr. Kristóf Fenyvesi (kristof.fenyvesi@jyu.fi)

Stay connected and follow our journey towards transforming education through innovative research and international cooperation.

Some highlights of the fruitful day:

Chinese Delegation visit to school

Chinese Delegation and the Principal of Christian School Jyväskylä

Principal of Christian School Jyväskylä - Mr. Petteri Muotka (4th from right), Chinese Delegation - Mr. Wang Jian (1st from left), Mr. Deng Youchao (2nd from left), Mr. Wang Jian (3rd from right), Mr. Li Tie'an (2nd from right) and Ms. Xu Congcong (1st from right), and ILE members - Dr. Kristóf Fenyvesi and Mr. Jukka Sinnemäki (2nd and 3rd from left)