The training is delivered either as face-to-face instruction in the training centre’s classrooms or as live online instruction via Zoom. The mode of study—face-to-face or online—is determined before the start of the course and communicated to the learner in the timetable and course information
.
1. Face-to-face instructionThe training takes place in classrooms that comply with health and safety requirements. The training centre has two classrooms furnished in a way that allows the furniture to be rearranged according to the needs of the learning activities, including pair work, group work, discussions and presentations.
The necessary technical equipment is available for teaching, including a whiteboard, computers, a data projector, a document camera, a video camera and photocopying facilities. Free Wi-Fi is available in the classrooms.
The learning environment supports the development of all language skills:
- listening skills are developed through audio recordings and video materials;
- reading skills are developed through reading simple texts, such as notices, instructions and dialogues;
- speaking skills are developed through pair work, group work, dialogues and discussions;
- writing skills are developed through written tasks, such as messages, short texts and forms.
2. Live online instruction via ZoomOnline lessons take place in real time via Zoom. The training provider ensures that the trainer has access to the necessary software and hardware. Before the start of the course, learners receive Zoom instructions and access information. The maximum size of an online group is 10–12 learners.
The online learning environment supports the development of all language skills:
- listening skills are developed through audio recordings and videos;
- reading skills are developed through reading digital texts and completing related tasks;
- speaking skills are developed through oral discussions, dialogues and group work, including breakout rooms;
- writing skills are developed through written tasks completed in the digital environment, such as worksheets, messages and short texts.
Learners receive both oral and written feedback.
3. Qualifications, educational background and work experience required for trainersEstonian language courses are taught by trainers who have previous experience in adult education and the educational background required to provide language training. Trainers may be specialists in Estonian philology, teachers of Estonian as a foreign language, or teachers with another relevant philological qualification and/or previous experience teaching Estonian to adults. Their compliance with the applicable requirements has been assessed by the Estonian Language Board.