Keeletoetused

Keeletoetused is a term used in Estonian educational discourse to denote a set of measures that provide language support to learners and service users who need assistance with the language of instruction or communication. The concept covers diagnostic assessment, targeted language instruction, provision of bilingual or multilingual materials, and ongoing progress monitoring, as well as professional development for teachers, family engagement strategies, and access to digital language tools.

In schooling and public services, Keeletoetused aim to help students acquire proficiency in Estonian, while also supporting the maintenance or development of their first languages. They are commonly applied to immigrant, refugee, and minority language students, as well as to learners with limited exposure to the language of instruction. The supports may be delivered in classrooms, pull-out sessions, or through schoolwide programs, and are implemented by teachers, language specialists, and school counselors, often with coordination from local education authorities.

Typical components include diagnostic language assessments to identify needs, intensified or specialized instruction in the language of instruction, the use of bilingual or simplified materials, and differentiated teaching strategies. Additional elements are teacher professional development on language acquisition, parental involvement in home language support, and access to digital tools and resources that facilitate language practice and literacy development. Ongoing evaluation and data collection are used to adjust intensity and focus, with attention to equity and alignment with the curriculum.

Keeletoetused are part of broader inclusive education efforts and reflect a balance between language development, academic learning, and culturally responsive practice.