Abstract:

This study aims to investigate the advantages and disadvantages of Internet-based language learning and focuses on computer-assisted learning of the Estonian language. Estonian is a less commonly taught language, belonging to the Finno-Ugric language family.

The inspiration for this presentation came from analysing the on-line courses of Estonian, concentrating mainly on the experience of the teachers and the feedback given by students of the teacher-assisted Estonian courses for advanced learners. These courses help the students to develop different skills and to get acquainted with the vocabulary and the grammatical structure of the Estonian language. The courses’ activities are structured around access to online resources and communication via social media (Skype). The courses are available in the University of Tartu learning environment Moodle.

This presentation will offer a broader analysis of Internet-based language learning, considering both the advantages and disadvantages of this learning method. The special linguistic characteristics of Estonian that make its learning and teaching via Internet different from the teaching and learning of other languages will also be discussed.

To gain information about students’ opinions about the most difficult aspects of the Estonian language and the attitude of the students towards the computer-assisted Estonian learning, data was collected via a questionnaire survey. The students of Estonian courses also evaluated the content and structure of the course materials.

Keywords:

Web-based language learning, computer-assisted Estonian learning, Learning Estonian on-line.