EDUCATION: Estonia focuses on tech and foreign languages

I find it so noteworthy that Idaho ranks No. 18 in terms of education and Estonia ranks No. 7. That is because the U.S. educational system has been hijacked. I decided to investigate exactly “what” subjects are being taught in Estonia. Imagine my surprise that religious topics are available and DEI isn’t mentioned once.

Estonia’s national curriculum includes a variety of subjects, and the country’s educational system emphasizes technology and foreign language learning:

Basic education — Compulsory subjects include language and literature, foreign languages, mathematics, natural science, social studies, art and music, technology, and physical education.

Upper secondary education — Students are required to study Estonian as a second language, and at least one other foreign language such as English, German, French, or Russian. Many students also choose to take computer studies as an elective.

Vocational education — General study modules include economics, entrepreneurship, legal acts, environmental protection and occupational safety. Students also develop foreign language skills, with an emphasis on professional language.

Information and communication technologies (ICT) — Estonia’s educational system is highly technology-based, with programming, robotics, and virtual environments being used in the classroom. The Tiger Leap program, launched in 1996, was a key part of this transformation, providing schools with computers and stable internet connections.

Religious education — Non-confessional religious education is voluntary, but schools are required to provide it according to the national curriculum. 

VERA SEVERTSON

Coeur d’Alene