Distance Learning in Latvia: Students, Parents and Teachers Weigh In

More than 13,000 pupils in Latvia have started distance-learning programmes this school year. A third of them are in the basic-school grades, and 8% are in grades 1–6. Lawmakers have proposed gradually restricting remote programmes for younger pupils, a move that has sparked disputes among politicians and experts. The daily newspaper «Latvijas Avīze» investigated the issue together with regional newspaper colleagues.

Why families choose distance learning

Parents take children out of regular schools for various reasons, and bullying is often one of them. Distance learning is also chosen by families living abroad who want education in Latvian, by those in remote districts, and by pupils who combine studies with work or sport.

In Latvia, distance learning is permitted at all levels, but at basic-school level only private, fee-charging schools offer it. Graduates receive the same documents as in a regular school: a basic education certificate or a general secondary education diploma. Tuition at Rīgas komercskola costs 1,611–1,791 euros a year.

Česlavs Batņa, chair of the Saeima's Education, Culture and Science Committee, believes forms of education should be diverse. In his view, backers of stricter rules cited only certain schools with poor exam results. Rīgas komercskola ranked 17th among 71 large schools in last year's Latvian school ranking, though that ranking assesses only the achievements of the most talented pupils.

Self-discipline and socialising

At Liepāja's Raiņa Secondary School, lessons run on the «Moodle» platform: pupils follow video lessons, study material and complete tests on their own, with help available in online consultations. Teacher Jana Liepiņa stresses that results depend largely on a pupil's determination. Kristīne Balta, head of the Aizkraukle municipality education board, says distance learning is not an easier alternative and is unsuitable for children lacking self-directed learning skills.

Pupils value learning at their own pace but mention missing contact with teachers and classmates. Rīgas komercskola offers excursions, yet one pupil's mother says they do not make up for socialising.

Artificial intelligence

Teachers are paying more attention to how tests are designed so they cannot be completed with AI. Liepiņa has seen pupils submit error-free work but fail exams where aids are not allowed, especially in mathematics and natural sciences. Ģirts Blekte, head of the Latvian Distance Education and Work Trade Union (LAIDA), supports more oral assessments. Gita Vāvere, director of Rīga's 1st Distance Learning Secondary School, argues that quality concerns should be met with stricter requirements and oversight rather than restricting choice.