TALIS collects data on the learning environment and the working conditions of teachers in schools across the world with the aim to provide valid, timely and comparable information from the perspective of practitioners in schools. Cross-country analysis from TALIS enables countries to identify other countries facing similar challenges and to learn from other policy approaches to develop a high-quality teaching profession. The survey is good opportunity for teachers and school leaders to provide input to policy-making process in education field by expressing their opinion.
Estonia has participated in all TALIS surveys. First survey was conducted in 2008 when 24 countries participated. In 2013 34 countries participated. In 2024 55 countries and regions participated.
Additional information
- More information about TALIS is available at OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) website.
Contacts
- Eneken Juurmann, Chief Expert, Teacher Department, Ministry of Education and Research, Estonian representative in TALIS Governing Board, e-mail: [email protected]
- The typical teacher in lower secondary education in Estonia is a 49 year old woman with higher education, school principal is 52 year old.
- Compared with 2018, Estonia’s school student population is more diverse linguistically, culturally, and in terms of learning needs, including children arriving from Ukraine. Teachers wish to participate more in professional development on teaching in multicultural and multilingual environments, and on the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Over one third of teachers have already used AI assistance in their teaching.
- Despite greater classroom diversity, Estonian teachers are among the best in maintaining class discipline compared to other countries, and they are able to devote 84.3% of instructional time to teaching and learning. Among the participating countries, our teachers spend the least amount of class time on maintaining order.
- Compared with 2018, the workload of teachers has increased, as has the share of teachers reporting high or considerable stress. The greatest sources of stress for Estonian teachers are responsibility for students’ learning outcomes and for students’ social and emotional well-being, as well as adapting lessons for students with special educational needs.
- One concern, according to school leaders, is the lack of qualified teachers and support specialists. Estonia also stands out with a high risk of attrition: 45.5% of teachers intend to remain in the profession for no more than five more years. The intention to leave is strongly associated with salary, working conditions, overall job satisfaction, perceived recognition, and high stress levels.
- On the positive side, 99% of teachers say they like the subject(s) they teach; 92% often feel happy while teaching; and 93% confirm that the various challenges of the teaching profession provide them with satisfaction.
Last updated: 10.10.2025
