Nearly 100% of graduates continue their studies after leaving secondary school. Post-secondary education, including university education, has undergone significant changes. This level of education has greatly differentiated internally so that it is quite difficult to define exactly where higher education begins. Many secondary school graduates continue learning in various private work-training courses that compete with the universities in terms of quality and choice. The credentialing of education has been liberalized in most fields, and a majority of universities recognize the accredited training courses completed by students.

Cooperation between Estonia’s public sector and the universities has resulted in one of the most effective and respected governments in the world. Government institutions are considered some the best examples of learning organizations anywhere. Intellectuals and artists are more closely than ever connected with the universities via teaching (particularly various workshops) or common development projects. Estonian university education and science have become internationally respected and researchers participate in a number of international projects. The social sciences and other research and development spheres important to Estonia are considered a priority for the improvement of the quality of life within Estonia.

Adult education is widespread and interlaced with the professional and everyday activities of workers, covering individuals of all ages. There is much choice in opportunities of study and the main problem facing people is how best to navigate the multiplicity of choices. A career consulting system helps citizens make well-informed decisions about what is best for their own learning needs.

Teachers and professors are held in high regard. Teachers are reflective practitioners and their ongoing learning is inseparable from their work as teachers. Teachers are creative, innovative and free to implement the newest findings into the nature of effective learning into their courses.

At press time, the Estonians told us the next step in developing “ownership” for these scenarios is on-going. Their future conclusions will be posted on the Initiative’s website as soon as possible.

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More articles by Ene-Silvia Sarv, Krista Loogma, Raivo Vilu, Rein Ruubel, Viive Ruus