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Flogging a dead horse?
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smokesignals



Joined: 06 Mar 2014
Posts: 22
PostPosted: Wed Mar 26, 2014 11:08 am    Post subject: Flogging a dead horse? Reply with quote
I know this question has been asked before in various guises, but I'll ask it anyway:

The hiring season is upon us for September 2014, and I would like to apply to teach English Foundation at one of the private universities. I know that the Foundation Year will be supposedly phased out in 2018, so I'd just like a shot at getting in there, before it is too late. Should I bother?

Now, I have a BA (unrelated), a CELTA, and 6 years in Oman of teaching Foundation with a lot of experience in teaching AES (reading, writing and presentations). In addition, I 've I taught EAP and ESP to students studying their majors. Not sure if this would hold any sway, but I also have an excellent set of references, some written by the Omani "powers that be."

Considering I've met a few teachers who came to Oman from private universities in the UAE, without MA's (eg Canadian University of Dubai), I don't feel it is unreasonable of me to pose this question again.

I am not touting for specifics, just any relevant, CURRENT insights would be helpful. Likely, some will cackle "MA or go away", but is there anyone actually in the UAE, who can advise me on my chances? I don't mind going somewhere unpopular such as the far reaches of Sharjah.
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nomad soul



Joined: 31 Jan 2010
Posts: 11454
Location: The real world
PostPosted: Wed Mar 26, 2014 5:07 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote
Even if there were plenty of openings for foundation year teachers, an unrelated BA simply won't cut it---employers have a pool of teachers with relevant MAs to pick from. You can certainly apply for whatever positions you're interested in, but don't hold your breath expecting to get a response. So, yep, that horse is so dead...
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ttxor1



Joined: 04 Jan 2014
Posts: 119
PostPosted: Wed Mar 26, 2014 8:27 pm    Post subject: Re: Flogging a dead horse? Reply with quote
smokesignals wrote:
I am not touting for specifics, just any relevant, CURRENT insights would be helpful. Likely, some will cackle "MA or go away", but is there anyone actually in the UAE, who can advise me on my chances? I don't mind going somewhere unpopular such as the far reaches of Sharjah.


as you mention an interest in Sharjah, the University of Sharjah, in a vacancy posted March 2nd 2014, require , in this order 1. relevant MA 2. relevant BA AND the type and length of experience that you have
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smokesignals



Joined: 06 Mar 2014
Posts: 22
PostPosted: Fri Mar 28, 2014 11:09 am    Post subject: Reply with quote
Thanks for that.

My conclusion is that this job market is getting altogether tougher, and what was acceptable 3 years ago in terms qualifications is not so now. Seems like experience does not count for a lot - pity.
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nomad soul



Joined: 31 Jan 2010
Posts: 11454
Location: The real world
PostPosted: Fri Mar 28, 2014 11:38 am    Post subject: Reply with quote
smokesignals wrote:
Seems like experience does not count for a lot - pity.

But again, you're competing against others who have a similar level of experience in addition to a relevant MA (and/or PhD), which is key. It's not just about experience. As harsh as it seems, there are employers who will like your experience but then see your unrelated BA and be puzzled or put off that you haven't moved forward in your career by getting a related MA.
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veiledsentiments



Joined: 20 Feb 2003
Posts: 17644
Location: USA
PostPosted: Fri Mar 28, 2014 4:13 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote
smokesignals wrote:
Thanks for that.

My conclusion is that this job market is getting altogether tougher, and what was acceptable 3 years ago in terms qualifications is not so now. Seems like experience does not count for a lot - pity.

I don't believe that the market has actually become that much tougher. The well-known high-pay positions in the UAE would never have considered your current credentials.

There may be small private colleges/universities that will consider you.

VS
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smokesignals



Joined: 06 Mar 2014
Posts: 22
PostPosted: Sat Mar 29, 2014 4:24 am    Post subject: Reply with quote
It is the smaller, private universities which I am interested in, as I know I might be in with a chance. At the same time, I am researching MA's to start in September, so point taken.
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smokesignals



Joined: 06 Mar 2014
Posts: 22
PostPosted: Sat Mar 29, 2014 4:53 am    Post subject: Reply with quote
It is the smaller, private universities which I am interested in, as I know I might be in with a chance. At the same time, I am researching MA's to start in September, so point taken.
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nomad soul



Joined: 31 Jan 2010
Posts: 11454
Location: The real world