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I am a teacher of Estonian language and literature. I love Estonian language, literature and culture in general. It is a language worth learning which has a wonderful sound, a clear structure and some inherent peculiarities that make it sometimes more difficult, but at the same time more interesting.
Knowing a language can open a door to another person’s heart. By mastering languages, we become more open, more sincere and by learning languages, we build bridges between us. As I have a bit idealistic view, I dream and believe that a world is possible where walls fall, and bridges rise.
Apart from my teaching skills, which I have accumulated for over 20 years, I also share my world view with my learners through different topics, discussions, debates and I am happy to hear how my learners share theirs with me. An integral part of my lessons is communicating and expressing opinions in the language of instruction. I teach my learners, they teach me.
As a teacher, I promote interactive lessons. I also pay great importance to the psychological aspects of the learning environment. Learning is effective when learners trust their teachers and vice versa. A satisfying and enjoyable result is possible due to this kind of collaboration.
As an adult educator, I:
- identify the needs and expectations of the study group, prepare the training content, and select appropriate methods based on the intended learning outcomes and previous feedback;
- provide learners with feedback and feedforward to support their further development;
- continuously gather feedback from learners about the learning process, analyse the learning process, and assess learners’ learning outcomes;
- analyse and evaluate my own performance in the learning process, recognise my strengths and areas for development, engage in continuous professional development, and update the learning content and teaching methods by revising and modernising them when necessary;
- use relevant information and communication technology (ICT) tools (e.g., interactive smartboards, online platforms such as Zoom and/or Teams, ML information system, cloud services such as Google Drive and/or OneDrive, e-learning platforms, etc.) in the preparation, delivery, and evaluation of the teaching and learning process, as well as for supporting my own professional development; am able to create, use, and share web-based learning materials.
I create learning materials and use my own grammar and speaking worksheets.
Feedback from learners:
- I really liked the teacher. She was friendly, qualified and managed the lesson time wisely. The exercises were interesting. They always explained things if anything wasn’t clear. She was supportive. Learning was easy and interesting. I didn’t want to miss a single lesson.
- Explains grammar topics very well. Always taking our wishes into account
- The teacher was always well prepared for the lesson. She took an individual approach to each student.
- Teacher Erika Jalakas is excellent – very competent and friendly. She was always polite and patient. I’d like to continue my studies with her next year.
- Estonian language teacher Erika Jalakas is a very good teacher – friendly, patient and professional; I learnt a lot of useful information.
