Experiences from virtual learning in upper secondary schools in Finland

In every country there has been a lot of worry and discussions how to make sure that the schoolchildren and the student can acquire sufficient skills and efficacy in using computers to be more efficient and productive in their studies and later in their professional career. One of the answers to this challenge in Finland has been the National Information Society Programme supporting the procurement of computers, building computer networks, training teachers and creating methods of teaching in a computer intensive environment. The programme has been running for ten years now, and there are a wide range of experiences from failures to brilliant successes. The most important lesson learned is that the technical networking, mental networking and organizational networking should take place simultaneously as well as the teacher understanding about the special role of ICT in education.