vertailujoukko

Vertailujoukko is the Finnish word for "comparative set" or "reference set". In the context of education, it refers to a group of students with similar characteristics who are used as a reference point for comparison and measurement.

The use of vertailujoukko in educational settings, particularly in Finland, is a significant aspect of the Finnish education system. The concept is based on the idea that a comparative set of students, often identical twins, can be used to measure the success of an educational intervention. This approach is known as the "twin study" method.

Vertailujoukko is not limited to identical twins; it can also involve other types of pairs, such as same-sex twins or siblings. The selection of participants is typically based on specific criteria, such as similar socio-economic backgrounds, intelligence, and cognitive abilities.

The primary goal of using vertailujoukko is to provide an objective measure of the effectiveness of educational programs and to identify individual factors that influence learning outcomes. By comparing the progress of students in the reference set with those who have received a specific intervention, researchers can isolate the impact of the intervention and make informed decisions about its implementation.

Finnish education has a strong emphasis on research and continuous improvement. The use of vertailujoukko has contributed significantly to the country's reputation for achieving high academic standards despite limited resources. This approach has been incorporated into various aspects of the Finnish education system, including special education, gifted education, and literacy programs.