Practical approaches to learning Estonian
Learning Estonian can be both a rewarding and challenging experience, especially for international students who come to study in Estonia. We sat down for an episode of Tiksu to UniTartu podcast with two Estonian teachers and an international student to discuss learning the Estonian language.
In this episode of the "Tiksu to UniTartu" podcast, we were joined by three guests with extensive knowledge and experience in learning and teaching the Estonian language. Sälly Salusoo has been teaching Estonian at the University of Tartu since 2014, primarily focusing on beginners. Gerli Lokk is also an Estonian teacher at UT and has taught Estonian for nine years, from the beginner level up to B2. Our third guest was a doctoral student from the Institute of Estonian and General Linguistics, Rodolfo Basile, from Italy. Fluent in Estonian, Rodolfo says that learning the local language in any country can help open doors and build new meaningful connections.
Teachers Sälly and Gerli also agreed that integrating into Estonian society is significantly easier when one makes an effort to learn the local language. They highlighted that although it is possible to get by in English in Estonia, speaking Estonian is useful in social interactions and helps to earn the respect of locals. Rodolfo shared that learning Estonian allowed him to feel more connected to the local culture and community. This integration is not just about language proficiency but also about understanding and participating in Estonian traditions and daily life.
The podcast participants did not shy away from discussing the difficulties of learning Estonian. According to Sälly and Gerli, one of the biggest challenges for beginners is memorising the vocabulary and the three main forms/cases of nouns*. This aspect of the language requires a lot of learning and practice. Rodolfo had already learned Finnish, and he pointed out the complexities of transitioning from learning Finnish to Estonian: the two languages are similar, but the differences can be confusing. He also mentioned the importance of trying to communicate in Estonian, even with mistakes and learning from those mistakes. This is all part of the learning and language acquisition process.
To overcome these challenges, the podcast guests proposed several effective learning strategies. Once again, they emphasised the importance of regular practice and not being afraid to make mistakes. Gerli noted that younger students seem less afraid of making errors, which is crucial for language learning. Watching local TV or listening to music can also significantly help the learners. Rodolfo recommended using media, such as watching TV shows with subtitles and listening to Estonian music, to immerse oneself in the language. He shared his own experience of watching "The Simpsons" with Finnish subtitles, suggesting that similar methods can be applied to learning Estonian. Sälly and Gerli also suggested listening to Estonian music and watching local TV shows like "Õnne 13" on the Jupiter platform, which offers subtitles. Rodolfo highlighted the importance of using Estonian in everyday situations and making the most of the environment in Estonia. They all agreed that finding media and resources that interest you personally can make the learning process more enjoyable and effective.
For those studying at the University of Tartu, there are numerous resources and courses available to aid in learning Estonian. Gerli mentioned that all students on English-based curricula are required to take a beginner's course in Estonian (6 ECTS), which provides a solid foundation. After that, students can join additional courses: the university offers a range of courses from beginner to advanced levels, including the new “Estonian Intensive Course for Beginners” starting in the autumn semester of 2024/2025. Everyone can find a suitable course for themselves from the University of Tartu language learning hub.
Learning Estonian is a journey that comes with its set of challenges, but with the right approach and resources, it can be a fulfilling and enriching experience. The main advice Sälly, Gerli and Rodolfo emphasised is to learn the basic rules and then make learning interesting to you. To quote Rodolfo: “Be brave and speak”. You will make mistakes, but that is fine because the locals will appreciate your effort and help you along the way.
Listen to the full episode of “Tiksu to UniTartu” about learning and speaking Estonian on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and visit the University of Tartu language learning hub.
Tere tulemast Tartu Ülikooli!**
* Estonian has 14 cases altogether, but the first three are the most important ones since other cases are formed based on those first three cases.
**Welcome to the University of Tartu!
