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Empowering Through Education and Music

Hello, I’m Johanna Ouli, and I’ve been a primary school teacher in Äänekoski since 1997, teaching students in grades 1 through 6. Currently, I work at Honkola School, where I’ll be teaching second grade in the academic year 2024–2025.

Alongside my teaching career, I am passionate about choral singing. For over 25 years, I’ve been a proud member of Kosken Laulu—a vibrant mixed choir from Äänekoski founded in 1981 and led by Morgan Sotejeff-Wilson. Our repertoire leans towards rhythmic music, including Finnish pop and rock, bringing an energetic and modern twist to our performances.

In my teaching, I emphasize structured learning environments, functional learning, and positive pedagogy. Structuring the classroom ensures clarity and predictability, helping students understand expectations and learning goals. Functional learning activates students through hands-on experiences, collaborative activities, and movement-based exercises, making learning more engaging and meaningful. Positive pedagogy focuses on recognizing students’ strengths and supporting their well-being, fostering self-esteem and motivation in a safe and supportive environment.

These approaches align with the core values of Finnish education:

  • Equality: Ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background.
  • Trust in Teachers: Emphasizing teacher professionalism and autonomy to create meaningful, student-centered learning experiences.
  • Well-Being: Supporting the holistic growth of each child—academically, socially, and emotionally.
  • Collaboration: Fostering teamwork and mutual support as essential elements of learning.

During the 2023–2024 academic year, I worked as a simultaneous teacher at Koulunmäki Unified School as part of an equal opportunity initiative in early childhood and primary education.

If you’d like to get in touch, you can reach me at Honkola School at

+358 40 612 7556 or by email at johanna.ouli@aanekoski.fi.

 

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Welcome – Innovate, Inspire, and Create the Future of Learning!

Hi, I’m Pekka Ouli, an eLearning specialist and educational developer with 27+ years of experience. My passion lies in combining technology, pedagogy, and innovation to build accessible and future-ready learning environments.

What I Do

  • AI and Digital Tools in Education: I work at AI related projects focusing on creativity, accessibility, and practical AI solutions for teaching and learning.
  • XR and Digital Twins: From forestry education to vocational training, I’ve explored XR technologies and digital twins to enhance learning experiences and promote sustainability.
  • Workshops and Training: I design and run workshops on topics like AI-assisted lesson planning, video-based learning, and integrating Minecraft into vocational education.

Why Work with Me?

I bring international experience, having collaborated on projects from Portugal to India and Poland to Lebanon, with a focus on blended learning models, local development, and smart villages.

Let’s Connect!

If you’re interested in education development, AI innovations, or new collaboration opportunities, feel free to reach out. Together, we can build something meaningful for the future of learning.

Mail me pekka.ouli@poke.fi or pekka.ouli@gmail.com

You can also call me +358 500 429651

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Excited for “School of the Future in Practice. Space in Education 2.0” Conference!

We’re thrilled to announce that on March 7-8, 2025, we – I and my dear wife Johanna – will be presenting at the III Educational Conference “School of the Future in Practice. Space in Education 2.0” in Gdańsk! Organized by the Pomorskie Education Curator, the Gdańsk Education Department, and the Principal of Primary School No. 27 “Children of a United Europe” in Gdańsk, this free event is dedicated to directors and teachers from the Pomeranian region.

Over two days, the conference promises to be a dynamic platform filled with inspiring lectures, engaging debates, and hands-on workshops. As we take the stage, we’ll share our insights about  best practices of education in Finland

We’re particularly excited to meet our Polish colleagues, exchange innovative ideas, and discuss future collaborations. Our presentation will also highlight how the next generation of youth can be equipped with the skills needed for a sustainable and safe future.

Join us in Gdańsk as we explore the frontiers of modern education, transforming everyday spaces into inspiring hubs of learning. Let’s work together to shape a future where technology and education merge to create vibrant, innovative, and supportive environments for all.

Be a part of this exciting journey and share your vision with #PrzestrzenwEdukacji!

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My Home Automation Setup: A Vision for Smarter Living and Future Education

I’ve been experimenting with Home Assistant for a while now, and my current setup showcases just how powerful and intuitive IoT-based home automation can be. The main display  is the “mission control” for my house—an at-a-glance dashboard that keeps me informed about room temperatures, humidity levels, energy consumption, and even who’s home.

But for me, it goes beyond simple convenience. I believe that integrating IoT and automation into vocational education can spark a revolution in how we design, build, and manage homes and workspaces. Here’s why:

1. A Healthier, More Efficient Environment

  • Better Air Quality and Comfort: With sensors tracking temperature and humidity, we can automate ventilation and heating to maintain optimal indoor conditions. This approach reduces the risk of mold, improves overall health, and makes living or working spaces more comfortable.
  • Energy Savings: By programming devices to turn off when rooms aren’t in use, or by automating heating and cooling based on real-time data, we can significantly cut down on energy costs and reduce our carbon footprint.

2. Safer Living for Everyone

  • Elderly Care: Smart sensors and automated alerts can provide peace of mind for families with elderly members. For example, motion detectors can notify caregivers if someone hasn’t moved around for a certain period, or if a door is left open.
  • Emergency Notifications: Smoke detectors, leak sensors, and other safety devices can be integrated into a central dashboard, allowing immediate action if something goes wrong.

3. Bringing IoT and Automation to Vocational Education

  • Hands-On Learning: By introducing real-world IoT projects into vocational programs, students can develop practical skills in electronics, networking, and software integration.
  • Cross-Curricular Opportunities: From construction and electrical engineering to healthcare and hospitality, automation technology can be embedded in almost any field. Students can learn how to install sensors, program automation flows, and troubleshoot systems that apply directly to their chosen professions.
  • Industry Relevance: As more businesses adopt IoT solutions, having graduates who understand how to design, install, and maintain these systems will be a major advantage in the job market.

4. The Road Ahead

My current Home Assistant setup is just the beginning. As sensors become more affordable and connectivity improves, I see endless possibilities for making our environments healthier, more efficient, and safer. By weaving these concepts into vocational curricula, we can empower the next generation of professionals to create solutions that truly make a difference in people’s lives.

  • Expand Sensor Networks: Future projects might include air quality sensors, occupancy detection, and advanced energy metering to fine-tune how resources are used.
  • AI and Predictive Automation: By harnessing data analytics and machine learning, automation systems can anticipate needs—like adjusting heating before you even realize you’re cold.
  • Community Collaboration: I’m also excited about sharing knowledge with local schools, colleges, and training centers to inspire more hands-on IoT projects that benefit both students and the wider community.

In a nutshell, this setup you see is a testament to how user-friendly and impactful IoT can be. It’s not just about convenience—although that’s certainly a perk. It’s about envisioning a world where homes and workplaces are designed with wellness, efficiency, and safety in mind. And by bringing these principles into vocational education, we’ll be laying the foundation for a smarter, healthier future for everyone.

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Technology Doesn’t Make Us Artists—We Do

In a world of rapidly evolving tools and possibilities, it’s easy to believe that technology can do it all. With AI composing songs, generating artwork, and writing stories, some might ask: Are we losing our creativity? But the truth is far more nuanced. Technology doesn’t make us artists. It’s just a tool—like a paintbrush or a piano. The real power lies in how we use it, control it, and curate the results.

In the same way the electric guitar didn’t replace guitarists or digital cameras didn’t replace photographers, AI and other tools won’t replace artists—unless we stop bringing our own creativity and perspective to the process.

Art Is Always a Dialogue

At its core, art is more than just output. It’s a dialogue between the artist and the audience. Every piece of music, painting, or film tells a story that invites the audience to respond emotionally or intellectually. Without this connection, art becomes meaningless noise, no matter how technically impressive it might be.

When an artist creates, they make countless decisions—what to include, what to leave out, how to frame a story, and how to make it resonate with others. These choices are the essence of creativity, and they cannot be automated. Even if AI helps generate ideas or drafts, it’s still the artist who gives the work its meaning, its voice, and its heart.

Technology as a Creative Partner, Not a Creator

Think of technology as a collaborator—a tool to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Here are some ways to look at it:

  • AI in Music: AI can help compose melodies or suggest harmonies, but it’s the musician who decides what stays, what goes, and how it fits the larger composition.
  • Digital Art Tools: Generative art tools can produce stunning visual concepts, but it’s the artist’s curation, editing, and context that turn them into meaningful works.
  • Writing Assistants: AI can suggest text, but it cannot understand nuance, tone, or emotional depth. Only the writer can craft a story that truly connects.

Creativity Is a Human Connection

If we look back at history, every artistic tool—from the camera to the synthesizer—once caused controversy. People feared they would destroy art as we knew it. But instead, they became part of the creative process, expanding what was possible. The same will happen with AI and other technologies.

The role of the artist will always be to control, curate, and give context to the results. It’s our decisions, our stories, and our visions that will make the difference. Without that, even the most advanced technology will produce something hollow.

Embrace the Dialogue

So, as new tools emerge, the question isn’t whether they will replace us. They won’t. The question is: How will you use them to say something meaningful to your audience?

In the end, technology will never replace the dialogue between artist and audience—it will only give us new ways to speak. The future of creativity is not about machines making art for us; it’s about how we, as artists, continue to shape that conversation.

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Empowering Creativity and Innovation: A Blueprint for Local Growth

Empowering Creativity and Innovation: 

In today’s fast-changing world, creativity and innovation are the keys to building thriving communities and resilient economies. At Digilab, we’ve created a space where emerging technologies meet local needs, inspiring new ideas and tangible solutions that benefit not just individuals but the entire region.

But here’s the best part: the Digilab concept isn’t limited to one location. It’s a flexible, scalable model that can be implemented anywhere it’s needed—from rural areas to urban centers, in educational institutions or community-driven hubs.

The core idea is simple: give people access to tools, technology, and support, and empower them to experiment, collaborate, and create. This approach has already shown incredible potential to strengthen local economies, and it can be replicated elsewhere to achieve similar results.

1. Technology as a Tool for Local Solutions

In Digilab, we focus on practical applications of emerging technologies—such as drones, 3D scanning, virtual reality, and AI—to address challenges specific to our local context. These solutions are not just for tech companies; they are valuable for traditional industries like forestry, real estate, tourism, and manufacturing.

Imagine this in your community:

  • Drones mapping natural landscapes or monitoring infrastructure.
  • 360-degree virtual tours boosting tourism and showcasing local attractions.
  • AI tools helping small businesses analyze customer data and optimize operations.

These solutions can be adapted and applied anywhere, creating new opportunities while solving real-world challenges.

2. A Hub for Local Businesses and Startups

One of Digilab’s biggest strengths is its ability to bring together local entrepreneurs and business leaders to explore how technology can help them innovate and grow. This collaboration results in more efficient business operations, new service models, and creative marketing strategies that enhance competitiveness.

The concept can be implemented in other communities to create innovation hubs, giving businesses a space to test ideas, pilot new technologies, and receive expert support.

3. Future Skills for a Future Workforce

The future of work is driven by technology, and Digilab focuses on developing skills that meet future demands. Through workshops, training sessions, and hands-on projects, students and professionals learn how to use tools like virtual reality, drone technology, and AI.

Any region can replicate this skills development model, connecting education with local industries to ensure the workforce is prepared for the jobs of tomorrow—wherever those jobs may be.

4. A Platform for Collaboration and Innovation

Digilab isn’t just about technology; it’s about building a culture of collaboration and creativity. It creates an environment where students, educators, business leaders, and public sector actors can come together to co-create solutions.

This collaborative approach can be easily implemented in other areas, helping stimulate local innovation ecosystems and create sustainable growth.

5. Scalable and Adaptable to Any Context

The beauty of the Digilab concept is its scalability and adaptability. It can start small—perhaps as a dedicated room in a local school or community center—and grow into a regional hub over time.

  • Rural areas can focus on technologies that support agriculture, sustainability, and local tourism.
  • Urban centers might emphasize creative industries, startup incubators, and advanced tech training.

The possibilities are endless. Each community can shape its own version of Digilab based on local needs and priorities.

Building the Future—Anywhere, Together

Digilab proves that technology and creativity can transform communities. More importantly, it’s a model that anyone can adopt and adapt. By implementing similar initiatives elsewhere, we can build stronger, more connected, and more innovative communities—whether in a bustling city or a quiet rural area.

The future doesn’t belong to a few select regions or industries. It belongs to those who are willing to experiment, create, and collaborate. With the Digilab model, that future is within reach for everyone.

Let’s share this idea, grow it, and bring it to where it’s needed most. The possibilities are limitless.

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How I Used AI to Plan a Student Event – And Why Educators Should Consider It

How I Used AI to Plan a Student Event – And Why Educators Should Consider It

When it comes to planning events for students, many educators proudly say, “I can do it myself.” And they’re right. Teachers are natural multitaskers who can organize everything from sports days to project weeks on their own.

However, using AI doesn’t mean giving up control or creativity. It means having a personal assistant to support and inspire you while you remain in the driver’s seat. Let me explain how I used an AI planning assistant to create a student-led LAN event (ÄäneLan) and why this approach makes you more empowered, not less.

You Stay in Control – AI Helps You Focus

Some people fear that AI will take over decision-making. The reality? You decide what ideas to use and what to reject. The AI is simply a brainstorming partner, a structured planner, and a resource-saving tool. At every step of planning ÄäneLan, I was the one making the calls. Here’s how it worked:

  1. I Set the Vision.
    I wanted ÄäneLan to be an educational event about gaming and digital culture that engaged students while developing their skills in teamwork, media literacy, and project management. The AI helped break that vision into actionable steps but never dictated the creative direction.
  2. The AI Suggested Options – I Chose What Fit.
    The AI provided a timeline, activity ideas, and safety protocols. I reviewed these suggestions and tailored them to fit our school’s unique needs. For instance, it suggested a peer-led discussion about gaming’s impact on mental health, which I kept, but I added a workshop on game design that felt more relevant to my students.
  3. It Helped With Details – I Focused on the Big Picture.
    The AI-generated checklists and templates for documentation, safety plans, and student evaluation criteria. This freed me to focus on what mattered most: creating a memorable experience for my students.

AI Users Are Creators, Not Followers

The most important thing to remember is that AI doesn’t replace your expertise—it amplifies it.
Think of it as a co-pilot:

  • It offers ideas when you’re stuck.
  • It reminds you of details you might overlook.
  • It keeps everything organized while you focus on building something meaningful.

But you always have the final say. Nothing happens without your approval and input.

Why AI Makes a Difference in Education

Here’s why I believe educators and school leaders should embrace AI tools:

  1. More Time for Teaching and Students.
    Planning a complex event can take hours. With AI, you’ll still be involved in every step, but the tool takes care of repetitive tasks like creating schedules or risk assessments. This frees up time to work directly with students.
  2. Expanded Perspective.
    AI offers fresh ideas you might not think of on your own. While planning ÄäneLan, I received suggestions on incorporating student-led feedback loops and gamification elements to boost engagement—both of which enhanced the event.
  3. Focus on Pedagogical Quality.
    With the AI taking care of logistics, I had more time to align the event with the curriculum and focus on learning outcomes. The result? A richer, more meaningful experience for the students.

Conclusion: AI Makes You a More Powerful Planner

Using AI in education is not about giving up control—it’s about taking control more efficiently and effectively. At every step, I was in charge of what happened. The AI was a tool, not a decision-maker. It helped me do more in less time and with fewer resources.

For educators and principals, this means you can dream bigger and achieve more, knowing you have a powerful assistant at your side. The future of education is not about replacing teachers with AI—it’s about empowering teachers to focus on what they do best: inspiring and guiding students toward success.

So, why not try it? You’re always in control.

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What is vocational education

Vocational education in Finland is a cornerstone of the nation’s educational framework, designed to equip students with practical skills tailored to meet the demands of the workforce. Unlike traditional academic pathways, vocational education emphasizes hands-on learning, ensuring that graduates are job-ready upon completion. This approach not only addresses the immediate needs of various industries but also supports lifelong learning and personal development.

In Finland, vocational education is highly regarded, with approximately half of the students completing their basic education opting for vocational training. This system offers flexibility, allowing students to enter the labor market directly or pursue further studies in higher education institutions.

POKE Vocational College, situated in Northern Central Finland, exemplifies the strengths of the Finnish vocational education system. The institution offers a diverse range of programs across seven key fields:

  • Business and Administration
  • Natural Sciences
  • Agriculture and Forestry
  • Services
  • Technology
  • Health and Welfare
  • Information and Communication Technologies

This variety ensures that students can align their education with their career aspirations, gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

A hallmark of POKE’s approach is its commitment to personalized education. Recognizing that each student has unique needs and goals, POKE provides individualized study guidance, fostering an environment where learning by doing is paramount. This methodology not only enhances student engagement but also ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the Central Finnish workforce.

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Presenting the Finnish Education Model 2024

 

I recently had the incredible opportunity to present a webinar on the Finnish education system—a system that reflects the long-standing efforts behind Finland’s transformation. Over decades, Finland has evolved from a modest agricultural society into a diversified industrial nation that now champions sustainable development. This evolution is not just a matter of economic growth but a story of visionary education, continuous innovation, and a commitment to creating an inclusive and forward-thinking society.

A Deep-Rooted Transformation

The Finnish education system is a testament to a long journey of transformation. It embodies the relentless efforts that have allowed Finland to transition from its roots as an agricultural community to a modern, industrial powerhouse. This progress has been driven by investments in education and sustainable practices, ensuring that growth is both inclusive and forward-looking. The journey is one of perseverance and dedication, where every step in education reform has contributed to building a society that values innovation, equality, and sustainability.

Personal Reflections on the Finnish Model

From preparing for the webinar to delivering the presentation, I felt a profound connection to this narrative. The Finnish model isn’t merely an educational strategy—it’s a reflection of national resilience and a continuous pursuit of excellence. I shared insights on how Finnish teachers, empowered by trust and autonomy, craft learning environments that not only foster academic excellence but also instill values essential for sustainable development. It’s a model where modern digital tools and innovative teaching methods merge with a deep respect for tradition and community.

The Power of Innovation and Sustainability

In my presentation, I emphasized how Finland’s educational framework is intrinsically linked to its broader societal goals. The same principles that drive classroom innovation—flexibility, inclusivity, and forward-thinking—are also the bedrock of Finland’s sustainable development policies. This approach ensures that every generation is equipped with the skills and values needed to sustain progress and address future challenges. The blend of innovation with a commitment to sustainability has been crucial in Finland’s journey, turning historical challenges into a future filled with promise.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Edusteps

I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to Edusteps for the opportunity to present at this webinar. Their support and collaboration were vital in bringing this vision to life. Working with Edusteps, an organization dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovative education, allowed me to share these ideas with a broader audience. Their commitment to excellence mirrors the very spirit of Finnish educational progress—long-term, thoughtful, and sustainable. Thank you, Edusteps, for enabling this platform and for your unwavering dedication to advancing education.

Looking to the Future

Reflecting on this journey reaffirms my belief in the power of education as a transformative force. By embracing the legacy of Finland’s development—from its agricultural past to its industrial and sustainable present—we can inspire change worldwide. I look forward to exploring further opportunities to share insights and collaborate with organizations that are committed to making a lasting impact on education.

Thank you for reading, and I hope this reflection inspires you to appreciate the long-term vision that continues to drive progress in education and society as a whole.

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Digitalization Connects People Worldwide – A Youth work Success Story

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In today’s digital world, technology serves as a bridge between cultures, connecting people across continents. This is precisely what’s happening at Piispala Youth Centre, where digital tools and virtual environments are bringing new possibilities to education and youth work.

At the core of this innovation is the Future Skills project, a collaboration between Piispala and Pohjoisen Keski-Suomen Ammattiopisto (POKE). The project aims to modernize learning environments, introduce hybrid educational models, and create new ways for youth to engage with nature and sustainability through game-based learning.

Building Piispala in Minecraft – Global Collaboration in Action

One of the most exciting aspects of the project is the virtual reconstruction of Piispala’s surroundings using Minecraft. This initiative is led by Namya Joshi, a 15-year-old from India, who has been working alongside Finnish youth to build a digital model of Piispala. Namya, an inspiring and tech-savvy exchange student, believes Minecraft is more than just a game—it’s a powerful educational tool.

“Minecraft helps students learn in a fun and interactive way,” says Namya. “It allows us to combine creativity with education.”

This unique collaboration became possible through Pekka Ouli, who connected the participants and brought together Namya’s expertise in game-based learning with the local Piispala project team. Through this connection, the students have been able to learn from each other and create something truly innovative.

Together, the students have been recreating Piispala’s buildings and outdoor spaces. Although still a work in progress, the virtual world they’ve built is already recognizable and serves as a prototype for future ideas. The virtual Piispala will soon be used as part of digital orientation and hybrid learning activities for visiting students.

Combining Nature, Game-Based Learning, and Sustainability

The Future Skills project focuses on much more than just digital tools. One key element is game-based learning to enhance youth engagement with sustainability and nature. Through innovative methods like hybrid workshops and virtual tours, Piispala is making it easier for schools and youth organizations to access and integrate digital learning experiences.

“We aim to give visitors a memorable experience—both physically and digitally,” explains Ville Virtanen, project lead at Piispala. “Our goal is to make Piispala more attractive while providing meaningful digital content for students and visitors.”

The hybrid model created as part of the project blends virtual pre-learning activities with real-life experiences at Piispala. For example, students can explore the facilities through 360° images, complete tasks online, and then experience the real environment during their visit. This approach offers an ideal balance between digital and physical learning.

Key Results of the Future Skills Project

  • Virtual tours and hybrid activities that enhance accessibility and engagement.
  • Increased digital literacy among staff and students, with a focus on game-based learning and sustainability.
  • Training opportunities in game education, such as becoming a game pedagogue at POKE.
  • Broader dissemination of digital tools and hybrid event expertise to youth centers nationwide.

The success of this project lies in the ability to combine local expertise with global talent. Namya Joshi’s enthusiasm and skills in virtual world-building have inspired many at Piispala. Beyond that, the project has left a lasting impact by equipping educators and youth workers with the skills they need to embrace the digital future.

“The key to success is embedding these practices into our daily work and sharing them with others,” says Virtanen. “We believe these innovations will benefit everyone—both at Piispala and beyond.”

Check webpages of Youth Centre Piispala https://piispala.fi/en

The Future of Digital Learning

As digitalization continues to evolve, Piispala remains at the forefront of youth education, proving that technology can connect people and create meaningful learning experiences across borders. With projects like this, the future looks bright—and connected.

Let me know if you want this adjusted to be more casual or formal!