What is your opinion of people who teach English in different countries (EFL/ESL) as a career?
lainiwakura13 asked:
Do you have any negative opinions about them? What comes to mind when you think of a person who used to live in the U.S. but now is teaching English in Asia?
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Do you have any negative opinions about them? What comes to mind when you think of a person who used to live in the U.S. but now is teaching English in Asia?
March 24th, 2009 at 11:02 am
Interesting question.
I am an ESL teacher. I have taught in Hong Kong, Australia and now, in the US.
Sadly, many foreign countries do not ask that an ESL teacher be trained in the field. Employers are happy with a 4 year degree in any field. As such, the quality of ESL instruction is not always high.
I am licensed to teach ESL in addition to having a four year degree. I think it’s a great way to see the world and appreciate other cultures. I have met some amazing people and children from around the world.
The ESL teachers I know are deeply dedicated to their students. The travel to exotic places is certainly a plus for anyone who wants to appreciate the world.
ESL teachers are generally tolerant of others, adventurous and fun-loving. They have a love of travel and people and trying new things. They will eat weird foods, hike up mountains, venture out into the world, even though they don’t speak the native language and are usually pretty resilient and self-reliant.
Of course, this is just the UNBIASED opinion of an ESL teacher!
March 25th, 2009 at 11:53 pm
Why would I have a negative opinion of them? If this is the career that makes them happy, I’m all for it.
All the best.
March 27th, 2009 at 3:29 am
My opinion is that they are people who want to travel the world extensively and not as a tourist, who only scratches the surface of the cultures that they come in to contact with. Of course some are dirty backpackers who are only interested in refilling their wallet so they can continue to bum around. However, I believe that the vast majority of people who make it their career are dedicated individuals who have the best interest of their students at heart.
March 27th, 2009 at 6:47 am
I can’t imagine why any kind and reasonable person would have a negative opinion of someone teaching English anywhere.
I suppose I think EFL teachers are fortunate to be experiencing different cultures and having new experiences. Lucky dogs!