Learning by Doing teacher training in March 2025

Practical ideas for language teaching in Tallinn

From March 9th to 14th, 2025, educators from Austria, Belgium and the Czech Republic gathered in Tallinn for the Learning by Doing Erasmus+ teacher training course, a hands-on professional development program designed to immerse teachers in innovative teaching methods. The week-long course, organized by Multilingua Language Center, focused on practical techniques and interactive learning, allowing participants to directly apply what they learned in their classrooms.

A dynamic learning experience

The course structure emphasized active, participatory learning. Each day, participants attended 1-2 workshops, delving into various teaching methods, such as ice-breaking techniques, TPRS (Teaching Proficiency through Reading and Storytelling), and integrating movement into language classes. The workshops were designed to introduce new teaching methods and engage teachers in practical exercises they could implement in their own classrooms.

For example, the teachers explored how to use coaching elements in language teaching, the value of linguistic landscapes in language learning, and how board games can serve as effective language-learning tools.

In addition to the classroom sessions, the course featured daily excursions where teachers could apply their learning in real-world contexts. 

As part of the program, participants ventured into Tallinn’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, toured the Peter I Museum, and explored the Rotermanni kvartal, completing a language worksheet in the city’s streets. These excursions allowed participants to experience the language in practical settings outside of the classroom.

One of the highlights of the program was the visit to Laagna High School, where teachers observed foreign language lessons in action. This opportunity offered great insight into how language is taught in Estonian schools and how different teaching methods are applied in a local context. Participants also visited the Estonian Parliament and the European Experience Center.

Cultural Integration

Apart from teaching methods, the Learning by Doing course also gave participants a deep dive into Estonian culture. 

“I loved that we had the opportunity to visit different places within the program. Our group visited different cafés and restaurants trying different cuisines, and we went to the Market. I really liked sharing experiences with people around Europe.” – Katka G. from Czech Republic 

On the final day of the course, participants took part in the Estonian Mother Tongue Day celebrations hosted by Multilingua. This special event, designed for Estonian language learners, included an Estonian language lesson, traditional food, folk dance, and an introduction to Tantsupidu, a traditional Estonian dance festival introduced by the folk dance troupe Ingliska. The event offered a great ending to the week, combining cultural and linguistic elements in a lively setting.

The Learning by Doing course in Tallinn offered a unique combination of professional development and cultural immersion, with a focus on practical, hands-on learning. Participants were able to take away new teaching methods, fresh insights into language learning, and lasting memories of their time in Estonia.

“The activity I enjoyed the most was exploring the city with the ActionBound app. It gave me a new way to experience the city while learning the language.” – Katka G. from Czech Republic

 

Check out the next sessions of Learning by Doing:

6.10.2025 – 10.10.2025 (register by 6.09.2025)

16.03.2026 – 20.03.2026 (register by 16.02.2026)

12.10.2026 – 16.10.2026 (register by 12.09.2026)

Other dates may be provided upon request of 6 or more participants.

Read more about Learning by Doing HERE.