Elämyssanat

Elämyssanat, a Finnish term, translates to "experience words" or "experience vocabulary." It refers to a specific collection of words and phrases developed and curated by the Finnish National Agency for Education (Opetushallitus). These words are designed to describe various learning experiences, skills, and competencies in a standardized and coherent way. The primary purpose of Elämyssanat is to facilitate the assessment and recognition of learning, particularly in vocational education and adult learning contexts.

The vocabulary aims to provide a common language for educators, students, employers, and other stakeholders involved in education and training. By using these defined terms, it becomes easier to articulate what a person has learned, even if the learning occurred through informal or non-formal means, or through practical work experience. Elämyssanat covers a broad spectrum of competencies, from specific vocational skills to more general transversal competencies like problem-solving, teamwork, and communication. The development of this vocabulary is part of a larger effort to promote lifelong learning and to make learning more transparent and comparable. The consistent use of Elämyssanat supports the creation of learning outcomes and the development of assessment tools that are clearly linked to these outcomes.