Estonian vs. English: Which Language is Most Commonly Used to Teach Lessons

Language plays a critical role in education, shaping the communication, understanding, and learning outcomes of students. In this article, we will explore the use of different languages in teaching, focusing on Estonian and English, two languages that often feature prominently in educational settings.

Teaching Language Preferences: Estonian and English

The choice of language for teaching can significantly influence the learning experience of students. For instance, in educational settings where students have a native or fluent command of the language, or where the curriculum mandates it, specific languages are used to ensure clarity and efficiency. As a teacher who predominantly uses Estonian for their lessons, I can share insights into the reasons behind this decision and the broader context of language use in education.

Estonian: A Language of Teaching and Learning

My teaching always takes place in my native language, Estonian. The prevalence of Estonian in my teaching environment is due to several factors:

Student Proficiency: The majority of my students are either native Estonians or have a strong command of the language. Classroom Requirements: For some courses, such as mathematics, there are specific class rules that mandate the use of the local language, in this case, Estonian.

Although my command of Russian is adequate for basic communication, such as giving directions or making simple requests, it is not sufficient for teaching complex and technical subjects.

English: A Universal Language in Academic Settings

While my preferred language of instruction is Estonian, I can also draw from my experience with English, which is widely used in academic and scientific fields. Here are a few reasons why English is commonly used as a teaching language:

International Collaboration: In academic research, such as the study of organic synthesis, English allows for the dissemination of knowledge and collaboration across different countries and cultures. Scientific Literature: A significant portion of scientific literature and academic papers is published in English, making it a crucial language for staying updated with the latest research findings. Standardized Examinations: Many standardized tests and assessments, like the International Baccalaureate, use English as the primary language, which means students need to be proficient in English to excel in these exams.

Despite these advantages, the choice of language for teaching remains a complex issue. Teachers must balance the need for clear communication with the diversity of their student body's linguistic backgrounds.

Conclusion: Balancing Communication and Learning

The language used in teaching can greatly impact the effectiveness of education. While Estonian and English are both valuable in their unique contexts, teachers must carefully consider the needs of their students and the specific requirements of their courses to ensure the best learning outcomes.

By understanding the role of language in education and the advantages and limitations of different languages, educators can foster a more inclusive and enriching learning environment.