Intercultural Education in Finnish Research: A Literature Review of the Past 20 Years
摘要
In this chapter, we review how interculturality has been approached in Finnish educational research over the past 20 years. Embedded in the field of intercultural communication, the chapter outlines the main research trends in peer-reviewed literature focusing explicitly on interculturality in connection with Finnish education. The studies covered in the chapter demonstrate how research on the field of intercultural education in Finland coincides with recent developments in the field of interculturality research, characterised by more visibility of critical, discursive and constructionist approaches. Notwithstanding the fact that critical approaches to interculturality seem to be taking hold and becoming increasingly visible, our literature review suggests some important research gaps, notably that limited attention is paid to students’ perspectives as well as the lack of longitudinal studies. When it comes to the studies reviewed, several of them point to some limitations regarding materials used in class and the stereotypical discourses they often perpetuate. Finally, even though intercultural education has gained increasing visibility, studies suggest it often remains a limited add-on rather than a holistic approach.