Laajaalaisiin

Laajaalaisiin is a Finnish adjective form derived from laaja-alainen, meaning broad-based, cross-disciplinary, or versatile. It is commonly used to describe perspectives, skills, or approaches that span several subject areas rather than being narrowly specialized. In many contexts, the related noun phrase laaja-alainen osaaminen (“broad-based competence”) is used to discuss a holistic set of capabilities.

In Finnish education policy, laaja-alainen osaaminen is a central concept. It refers to a versatile competence framework that enables students to participate in society, work life, and lifelong learning. The idea emphasizes integrating knowledge across subjects and linking learning to real-life situations. Core elements typically associated with laaja-alainen osaaminen include communication and collaboration, information literacy and digital competence, critical thinking and problem solving, ethical and social responsibility, and the ability to learn how to learn. The aim is to equip learners with transferable skills that remain relevant beyond any single subject or discipline.

The concept is applied beyond general education to vocational education and training, teacher education, and broader educational policy. It supports practices such as interdisciplinary projects, cross-curricular themes, and learning environments that connect classroom work to working life and civic participation. By focusing on cross-cutting skills, laaja-alainen approaches seek to increase adaptability to changing technologies, labor markets, and societal needs.

See also: laaja-alainen osaaminen; cross-disciplinary education; lifelong learning; Finnish education policy.