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
Privacy Policy