Introduction to Finnish Language and Culture (Level A1.2) (5cr)

Learning outcomes

The student is able to:
- speak and understand Finnish in simple and familiar everyday situations
- find information in brief texts and write simple messages
- use some of the basic grammar structures
- become familiar with Finnish cultural manners and customs
- reach the target level of A1.2 in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages

Teaching methods

A Canvas learning environment is used to support the implementation, but it is important to take part in teaching and guidance on campus according to schedule. The study unit includes working in pairs or groups.

Time and location

Timetable is found in Tuudo and Pakki.
Lessons will be in Leppävaara campus.
Laurea reserves the right to modify the timetable.

Learning materials and recommended literature

Oma Suomi 1 -book (new edition)
Canvas-materials

Alternative completion methods of implementation

According to the degree regulations (2024),;Students are entitled to apply for recognition of prior learning regardless of where, when and how the competence has been acquired. ... At Laurea, there are two different procedures for the recognition and accreditation of prior learning: a) accreditation of prior learning (competence acquired in higher education studies at another institution) and b) demonstration of competence (competence acquired in other ways). The recognition and accreditation of prior learning is initiated by the student themselves. The student is responsible for demonstrating and verifying their competence. The student is entitled to guidance for the recognition and accreditation of their competence." Further information in the student intranet.

You may also assess work-based learning as a way to acquire the competence needed. Read more in the student intranet.

Important dates

Based on the degree regulations (2024), the student accepted for the implementation is required to confirm his/her participation by showing activity at the start of the study in the following way:

In order to demonstrate activity, the student must be present at the first contact lesson or notify the teacher in charge of his/her absence to confirm his/her participation in the study. Registration will be rejected if the student does not report his/her absence at the start of the study or the reason for the absence cannot be considered justified. Another student can be taken in his place.

Student workload

Workload of the study is measured in a way that to acquire the goal competence of the study, one credit corresponds to an average of 26.7 hours of work done by the student. The actual time needed varies e.g. according to prior competence.

Content and scheduling

No prerequisites required.
Required attendance: 80 % of lessons unless otherwise agreed.

Further information

The study unit corresponds to the requirements of Bachelor's level education.

The prerequisite for participation is always that the possible competence prerequisites according to the curriculum (previous study or similar competence) are fulfilled. The student is responsible for taking into account the prerequisite conditions.

Evaluation scale

Approved/Failed

Evaluation methods and criteria

In order to pass the course, the student have to do all the assignments required (see in Canvas) and to pass the written test in the end of the course.


“Students who have failed to demonstrate their competence in accordance with the approved level must supplement or retake their study attainment in a manner and schedule defined by the teacher of the study unit. If the student does not pass the assessment despite the opportunity to complete their study attainment, they must complete the study unit in question in full as specified by the teacher.” (Degree regulations 2024.)

All staff and students of Laurea are expected to adhere to good scientific practices, which includes appropriate referencing. Familiarise yourself with the practices and, if needed, ask for more information. All study assignments are to be done as individual work unless otherwise instructed. If Tournitin is used when assignments are checked, the lecturer will inform the students of this.