“Estonian Language Learning for Third-Country Nationals” Impact Study

The study by IBS aims to analyze the effectiveness of Estonian language learning programs for third-country nationals. It addresses identified barriers and incorporates findings from previous surveys to improve integration.

The results show that satisfaction with the language course offered as part of the training was high among participants. Specifically, 85% of participants reported being either satisfied or very satisfied with the course. Satisfaction with different factors and aspects of the course varied but was generally above average. For example, 87% to 90% of respondents expressed satisfaction or high satisfaction with the teacher’s competence, the teaching format, and the teaching materials. They also showed similar levels of satisfaction with the course’s duration, location, and timing.

However, there was less satisfaction with some aspects. For example, satisfaction with the amount of independent work was at 69%. Satisfaction with the length of the course was at 75%, and the size of the study group received a satisfaction rating of 76%. Although the number of course drop-outs was relatively low, the most common reasons for dropping out were heavy workload at work and/or school (44% of respondents), overlapping work and/or study schedules with the course (39%), and lack of time due to children or other family commitments (33%).

The impact of the Estonian language learning course on participants’ language skills was high. Participants rated the impact of the course on listening and understanding Estonian the highest at 93%. The impact on writing skills was rated the least highly at 79%. The impact on reading and speaking in Estonian was fairly similar. About 85% of respondents rated the impact on both skills as strong or somewhat strong.

In addition to the impact on language skills, we examined the effect of course participation on aspects of daily life. This includes networking and integration into Estonian society. Participation in the course had the most positive effect on improving participants’ communication skills. It also increased the use of Estonian in everyday life and made participants feel better and more comfortable living in Estonia. However, participants felt the course least helped them promote or increase their number of Estonian-speaking acquaintances after completing it.