Language guidelines
Background of the Language Guidelines
The new language guidelines are based on language-aware thinking.
As a result of language awareness, educational institutions are more attentive to issues related to the use of different languages, language learning, and language selection.
In addition to Finnish-language degree programs, Metropolia also offers English-language and bilingual degree programs (englanti – suomi) . English-language degree programs are available to students from a variety of linguistic backgrounds. To settle in Finland and obtain a job in their field, they require the support of the surrounding community in order to learn the Finnish language.
The language guidelines aim to support the Metropolia community, students and staff in everyday multilingual interactions and language learning in a supportive environment that allows errors. The guidelines promote the use of parallel languages at Metropolia, remove linguistic barriers and support language learning. Moreover, the aim is to increase awareness of diversity and multilingualism in higher education.
Supporting Finnish language learning
In higher education, internationalisation has long meant a greater use of English in the classroom as well as in daily life.
Nowadays, the internationalisation of higher education institutions and language choices is seen in a more comprehensive manner: the importance of Finnish alongside English is acknowledged, and learning Finnish by international students is considered a critical component of integrating themselves into Finland and moving forward in their careers.
Practical tips for enhancing language learning and communication at Metropolia
Embrace multilingual interactions: Don’t hesitate to use and practise different languages in your coursework and daily interactions. Language learning happens best through active use, so integrate Finnish, English, and any other languages you know into your academic and social life.
Communicate your language needs: If you have trouble understanding or need to switch the language of conversation, let others know. It’s okay to ask for explanations or to switch languages when needed, especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Set language learning goals: Define what you want to achieve with your language learning. Whether it’s improving your Finnish for daily tasks or enhancing your academic English, having clear goals will help guide your efforts.
Participate in language events: Take advantage of language-focused activities such as language lunches, coffee meetings, and discussion clubs organised by the university. These events are great for practising and learning in a supportive environment.
Engage in tandem learning: Partner with someone who speaks a language you want to learn. Through tandem learning, you can exchange language skills with others, providing mutual support and gaining practical language experience.
Practice in everyday situations: Use Finnish in daily situations, even if it’s just small interactions like ordering food or asking for directions. Practical use helps reinforce learning and builds confidence.
Be open to mixing languages: In conversations, it’s fine to switch between languages or mix them as needed. The goal is effective communication, so use whatever combination helps you express yourself best.
Respect others’ language preferences: Understand that everyone has different language preferences and proficiencies. Start interactions in a polite and inclusive manner, and adjust languages based on the preferences expressed by your conversation partners.
Seek feedback and support: Ask for feedback on your language use and seek additional help if you need it. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes; they are a natural part of the learning process.
Utilise Metropolia’s resources: Make use of the resources and support services provided by Metropolia to enhance your language skills. This includes language courses, tutoring services, and online tools.
Language learning in work placement and language training
Write down your language objectives according to your starting level. When possible, students at A1-A2 level in Finnish will work with a partner who speaks more of the language, so they receive prompt support in communication situations.
Create a language agreement that defines your own language objectives for your traineeship.
As part of the language agreement, you will discuss your language goals for this particular traineeship at the beginning of the traineeship. During each placement, the objectives can be modified as necessary. Discuss the situations in which the language can be learned with your supervisor.
Use the Pocket Notebook to support your language learning.
See also the Kielibuust website: 34 vinkkiä suomen oppimiseen vapaalla
Multilingual encounters: working in groups in different languages
Discuss language practices, wishes and challenges together whenever there are students of different languages in the group. It is easier and safer to participate in group work when languages have been discussed and common practices have been agreed.
Don't assume! You can agree on the language to be used, for example by asking these questions:
- In which languages can you participate in the task?
- What are your wishes for learning Finnish/Swedish/English?
Make use of multilingualism: two or more languages can be used simultaneously in a group task. Ensure that all written and spoken communication is in a language that all can understand.
It is easier to talk about the feelings and resources involved in language learning when everyone is aware of the demands of language learning. If you are participating in group activities, it is acceptable for you to say: "Today I am so tired that I cannot speak Finnish" and "Today I would like to learn English. Would you mind correcting me if I say something funny?" In addition, you may change languages depending on the situation and your mood while working.
Group members can also learn from each other by choosing the languages they use in the group.
It is easier to learn a language in a safe environment!
Find out more about the pros and cons of different language solutions on the Kielibuusti website.
Engaging in language-aware encounters during your studies
Remember that the language of instruction is not necessarily the strongest language for everyone
If you use the language that is strongest for you, take responsibility for your interactions:
- Speak at a calm pace and indicate clearly when the subject changes.
- Use a lot of repetition, say things twice, in slightly different words.
- Encourage everyone to participate in the debate, regardless of their language ability.
- Provide alternatives to words in another language if a person does not know the word.
- Make summaries and translations and make sure everyone understands and keeps up.
- Do not settle for simply asking whether someone understood everything. (People from different cultures might say ‘yes’ out of politeness.)
- Explain what has been agreed upon and what each person is expected to do following the meeting.
- Encourage everyone to ask questions and make comments in other languages if it is more convenient for them to do so.
Share your feelings and thoughts about the language with your fellow students.
Have empathy for yourself and others when you use a language other than your first language in your studies. It takes a long time to learn a language, so be patient with yourself and your study partner.
Your teacher may teach in a language that is not their first language, so please be empathetic of their abilities.
If you don't know or remember a word, ask your fellow students or teachers for support. Alternatively, you may mix Finnish and English if it seems more convenient one day.
Feel free to ask if you don't understand.
Links to language learning and language learning support
- How to speak plain language
- How to write in plain language
- How to speak plain English (or Finnish)
- How to write plain English