12 - Estonia - Teaching methods
Studies are undertaken in the following forms: auditory study,
practical work, and independent work. Auditory study is fulfilling the
purpose of study in the form of lectures, seminars, and colloquia or in
any other form determined by the educational institution. Practical
work refers to fulfilling the purpose of study by applying the
knowledge and skills obtained to work. It is carried out in a study
environment in the form of a practical course, training lesson,
laboratory work or in any other form determined by the educational
institution. Independent work is a student’s independent activity to
fulfil the purpose of study.
The most common method of teaching
is still a lecture, in which a teacher presents an overview of the most
important issues of a topic within 2 academic hours (90 minutes). The
method is, however, gradually losing its prominence and the popularity
of other methods is increasing. In seminars, the topics and issues
covered in lectures or studied independently are discussed and
analysed, problems are solved in working groups and reports are
presented. Case studies, different forms of project or teamwork, etc.
are the methods widely used. Interactive study methods are also applied
more extensively in all educational fields. A lot of attention has been
paid to the introduction of e-study on the level of universities.
Internet-based study environments and teaching aids have been created
and are being further developed. Educational institutions have created
and are further creating an increasing number of video conferencing
possibilities. Also examinations are often organised using IT
applications.
As regards curricula, there is a growing trend
towards module-based study. The development of curricula is undertaken
both within educational institutions and in inter-institutional
co-operation. The contents and relation of subjects, including
relations between the organisation of theoretical study and practical
training are strictly established only in the case of internationally
regulated professions (medical, nursing and obstetrics training, etc.).
As regards the rest of the curricula, an educational institution and
the members of teaching staff decide on the structure of curricula,
study methods and teaching aids, the conformity of which to the
objective established by the curriculum is evaluated in the course of
accreditation of the curriculum.
Eurydice - the information network on education in Europe
Date: 2009