The school year 2020-21 in Estonia during the pandemic

Abstract

This report presents results from a qualitative interview-based study with teachers, students and school leaders (n=15) on the academic year 2020-21 in Estonia, which can be described as the first full year with Covid-19. The study reveals how school staff members were bridging previous experiences from 2019-20 in preparations for 2020-21 resulting in a variety of education modes, including contact learning, hybrid learning and remote education. While the academic year 2020-21 can be characterized by constant reorganizing, creative tailor-made solutions and ad hoc planning, key findings in the study include instructional practices developed, assessment and feedback, well-being and vulnerability, data protection and privacy. Potential improvements and future directions for the next academic year 2021-22 and for long perspective planning in education in Estonia are provided