Hello there! This is Anhelina and I hope you recall my previous blog post about learning Estonian at the University of Tartu (the link for the first part). I have continued my journey and passionately immersed myself in the study of the Estonian language. This post contains even more tips and useful information that I am sharing with those interested in this fascinating Finno-Ugric language!
Learning Estonian can be a rewarding and enriching experience! It will help you to facilitate your academic journey, establish meaningful connections with Estonians, gain immersive insights into the distinctive culture and student life, actively engage with the University of Tartu events, and align your future career with opportunities in Estonia.
Independent learning might be complicated for those who are only starting their acquaintance with the language. Therefore, taking the general language courses offered by the University of Tartu will allow you to grasp the basics of Estonian grammar and vocabulary.
Personally, I have already completed the first two levels offered by the University of Tartu and found it extremely useful. Such courses provide a general understanding of the language. Combining these courses with independent study can yield remarkable results. You can take a look at course options using this link. Some people might be extremely occupied throughout the semester, so keep in mind that it is possible to take the Estonian language summer course at the end of July and the beginning of August every year.
Independent learning is a crucial part of the language journey and there are several resources tailored for beginners that can complement your studies:
- Websites like keeleklikk.ee offer online Estonian language courses tailored for beginners, with instruction in English. The program comprises 16 sections featuring an impressive 200 animations, over 100 instructional videos explaining grammar concepts, and a comprehensive set of approximately 1200 exercises. Additionally, learners benefit from the guidance of an Estonian language instructor, with the opportunity to exchange written texts via email. Most importantly, these courses are accessible free of charge to anyone seeking to enhance their Estonian language proficiency.
- speakly.me – online Estonian language application designed for beginners. Speakly’s approach centers on teaching the 4,000 most frequently utilized words, so it will help to boost your vocabulary significantly.
- cooljugator.com/ee Provides assistance with various verb forms (conjugated forms, examples, English translations, transcriptions, related verbs, etc.).
- For individuals with hearing impairments at the A2 language level, web.meis.ee presents a collection of resources known as “Stories of Pille and Lauri.” On this website, you’ll discover 20 subjects complete with worksheets, videos, and digital exercises, all designed to enhance your proficiency in the Estonian language.
- Explore a diverse range of dictionaries at keeleveeb.ee.
- “Language learner’s word web” (Sõnaveeb) dictionary, where you can find word meanings and necessary noun and verb endings. The Picture Dictionary (Piltsõnastik) is also a great tool for quicker word memorization.
- The University of Tartu launched SayEst,the first mobile app for learning Estonian pronunciation.
These resources can greatly enhance your language learning experience as a beginner.
If you rely solely on independent learning, you may miss out on feedback and support. I want to highlight the support options available through the University of Tartu:
- KeeleKohting, or “language date,” offers a chance to make new friends, exchange ideas, discover the Estonian language and culture, and expand your vocabulary through free-form conversations. More information can be found here.
- You can also register for tandem learning, a fantastic opportunity to teach your native language while learning Estonian. Additional information is available here.
Every word you learn is a step closer to unlocking a world of culture, connection, and opportunity. Keep going, and soon you’ll be conversing with confidence in the remarkable Eesti keel!
