معرفی
Arja Kaasinen is a University Lecturer at the Department of Educational Sciences, University of Helsinki, with cross-affiliations to the Institute of Sustainability Science (HELSUS) and Maker@STEAM initiative. Her academic work integrates environmental education with practical teaching methodologies, focusing particularly on outdoor learning and biodiversity education. With extensive experience as both a classroom teacher and educational researcher, she has established herself as a leading figure in Finnish sustainability education.
Educational Background:
- Classroom teacher (biology, music, physical education, health education)
- Biology teacher
- Doctor of Philosophy (Education)
Dr. Kaasinen's research program centers on innovative approaches to environmental education, with special emphasis on species knowledge development, outdoor teaching methodologies, and sustainability literacy. Her work bridges theoretical educational frameworks with practical classroom applications, particularly examining how children develop environmental awareness through direct nature experiences. She has pioneered research on 'plant blindness' and its implications for environmental education, while also developing practical tools like the Cache book series for primary environmental studies. Her approach integrates multisensory learning, digital tools for outdoor education, and cross-cultural STEM education analysis.
Analysis of her recent publication record (122 research outputs, 35 projects) reveals consistent focus on practical educational tools and teacher training methodologies. The most prominent themes include species identification education, forest-based learning, development of environmental literacy, and innovative approaches to teaching biology and sustainability concepts. Her work shows increasing international collaboration, particularly in comparative studies of STEM education approaches.
Scientific Awards:
- Acknowledged Flagship Project (2017)
- Kunniamaininta Kultin Vuoden laatulehti -kilpailussa Natura-lehdelle (October 22, 2020)
- Natura-lehti: Vuoden laatulehti-kilpailun kunniamaininta (October 2020)
- Työyhteisöteko 2023: Äänenkäyttövideot (December 2023)
- Työyhteisöteko 2024: Puutarha ja Galleria kasvihuone, Kasvun tila-hanke (December 13, 2024)
Dr. Kaasinen serves as thesis supervisor for Master's students and is an active member of the Master's Education Management Team. Her research projects demonstrate significant funding success, including the ongoing 'Species Knowledge for Sustainability' project (since 2019), 'Plant Blindness' research initiative, and the 'Kasvun tila' project transforming greenhouses into sustainability and art education spaces. She has published extensively across multiple formats including peer-reviewed articles, books, book chapters, and educational materials.
As Director of the Outdoor Teaching Research Group and organizer of the Finnish Children's Forest Trip Day, she has created significant impact in practical educational settings. Her leadership roles include Chair of the KekePeda working group and Supervisor of STEM subject didactics. Through her membership in HELSUS and SIRENE networks, she connects educational research with broader sustainability initiatives, contributing to the University of Helsinki's progress toward UN Sustainable Development Goals as highlighted in media coverage.
