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Database of Teaching Sources

A database of selected, reviewed, tested, assessed and validated e-learning based language teaching sources addressed to Higher education students for the learning of 18 different European languages.

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Estonian Language Competencies for Peace Corps Volunteers in the Republic of Estonia

Date of Publication

1992

Target Group

Students

Domain Area

Business & Communication
International Relations
Tourism

Learning Scenario

Autonomous learning
Classroom Context

Target Language

Estonian

Language of Instruction

English

CEFR level

A1
A2

Type of Material

Guiding resources (online course/book)

Linguistic Features

Vocabulary
Grammar

Skills

Speaking
Reading
Mediation

Description

While quite old, this resource is a possible introduction into learning Estonian both in the classroom and independently. The resource assumes the competency-based approach, hence the functionality of the language units taught is a priority. In the introductory word of the coursebook, the Authors highlight the intended target audience: motivated adult learners who need basic Estonian for the first months of their presence in the country. There are 14 topic-based chapters all in all, as well as quite a few appendices, which also include mini-glossaries. Since only the last chapter deals specifically with the lexis intended for peacemaking corps, it is believed that the coursebook may be effectively used by anyone appreciating the old-school learning.

Case study

As the resource assumes the competency-based approach, the learner is immediately introduced into the environment governed by practical needs. The sections of each thematic chapter are quite brief (as the Authors state, the resource was created in less than four months), but informative. The learner will not be overwhelmed by the abundance of information, which is viewed here as an advantage. Given brevity of expositions, the textbook offers a dynamic learning environment, in which the learner may quickly acquire basic language skills. From time to time, there are also colloquial language notes provided as well as commonly used proverbs. Should there be minimum exposure to or availability of other resources, this book is a good guidebook for beginner levels.

Guidelines

The resource can be used autonomously. It does not need any external connections or other resources. It is a resource which seems to be a mix of an old-style language coursebook and a phrasebook. The readings and assignments are pleasant and at the same time, introduce essential vocabulary to get around in a new country.

Review

Category
Rate
Comprehensive approach
Capacity to match the needs of lecturers and students

3

Added value
The provided tangible improvements

3

Motivation enhancement
The capacity to motivate students to improve their language skills

1

Innovation
Effectiveness in introducing innovative, creative and previously unknown approaches to LSP learning

1

Transferability
Measurement of the transferable potential and possibility to be a source of further capitalisation/application for other language projects in different countries

2

Skills assessment and validation
Availability of appropriate tools for lecturers to monitor students’ progress and for students to assess own progress and to reflect on learning

2

Adaptability
Flexibility of the contents and possibilities for the LSP lecturers to adapt the contents to their and to students’ need

3

Usability
Assess the technical usability from the point of view of the lecturer and the student

5

Accessibility
Assess the accessibility from the point of view of the lecturer and the student

5

Comments:
Despite its age, it is quite an attractive resource book. Each chapter introduces core vocabulary, grammar, notes on pronunciation, and contains practical exercises. There are nice introductions into the topic, which describe daily situations or a certain aspect of the culture of the people (albeit, given the time of the release, this information might be outdated). At the beginning of every chapter, specific competencies (i.e. objectives of the lesson) are presented. The topics of the book include: Personal Presentation, Classroom Orientation, Conversation with Host Counterpart or Family, Communications, Food, Money, Transportation, Directions, Shopping, Social Situations, Community Services, At the Workplace, Medical, Personal Identification (II). The appendices provide brief information on most important grammatical points and also contain a number of glossaries, such as Colors, Countries, Numbers, etc.
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