Factors influencing Estonian teachers' opportunities and decisions regarding the selection of learning materials

The professionalism of a teacher is expressed in many ways, one of which is selecting appropriate learning materials. In this study, Bronfenbrenner's ecological model was used to identify opportunities for Estonian teachers to select learning materials, as well as the factors influencing their decisions. Semi-structured interviews were performed with 19 pre- and primary school teachers, followed by qualitative content analysis. Factors influencing teachers' decisions about learning materials were identified. Macro-level factors included complying with the curriculum and publishers. The meso-level concerns the influence of surrounding individuals (e.g. principals, colleagues and pupils). Micro-level factors were related to teachers' knowledge and experience. Teachers' informed choice of learning materials is important in improving pupil performance.