Job Discussion Forums

[Ryumicko]

Im not sure this question should be here...but I couldnt think of where else.

Its highly unlikely that I will do it, but im looking into possible volunteer teaching. Its very hard to tell wether or not the companies that offer it are legitimate.

Basically, im interested in the quality of the teaching experience (as far as resumes are concerned) that you get from volunteer teaching, compared to paid teaching.

If I was to volunteer, would the teaching experience be worth it? (the volunteer program would cost me a fair bit). Does anyone know of any common problems that can pop up with volunteer teaching? How well is it respected by potential employers?

Sorry, but I couldnt find much info on this.

Cheers.

Mick.

[EnglishBrian]

Do you have any particular volunteer scheme in mind? What you're really looking for in such a scheme will determine whether it's good for you or not. I mean are you wanting to live in a particular country that doesn't have a TEFL industry, or hoping to go somewhere to learn a language?

Unless you have some very specific reasons for it I'd say not to. If you're looking for a less pressured intro. to teaching with plenty of help and support, there are lots of places you can do this and at the very least break even. In terms of future employment, having worked in a real setting might be more favourably looked on aswell.

[Ryumicko]

I am looking for a way to get teaching experience, a way to avoid having to spend months looking for work (that i might not get), and of course to enjoy the culture. A way to learn some language etc.

Hell, i was jsut gonna land in BA Argentina and look for work then leave ifi dont get any. I did a google search on working in Argentina and this volunteer program popped up. i didnt even know you could volunteer!

Basically i want to know whether the experience gained from the teaching i will do, wil help me to be a good teacher etc, and help me to get work in other countries.

All i want to do is break even. I wonder if i could do that on a TESOL certificate and no degree in B.A Argentina....


..hmmm the questions the questions...


M.

[EnglishBrian]

You may know more than me about Argentina but I understand it to be one of those places that isn't awash with foreign teachers. Sure there are plenty, but compared to other capital cities or cities its size, the number of paid foreigners is probably pretty small. If that's a place you want to go especially, volunteering may be the way to get in. You don't for example see many jobs in Argentina offered on TEFL.com or Dave's jobs, so getting one from outside the country may be tough!

If people on the Argentina forum don't rate your chances of just turning up and getting started (?), a volunteer programme might be the way to start.

If you're wanting to use it as a springboard for paid work and to build up your confidence, ask the folk running the scheme lots of questions. Support from senior teachers? Resources (course books, resource books for photocopying, photocopying facilities?) Do they have any programme of development seminars?

Without things like this, your experience may not be that valuable in terms of future employment - though no reason necessarily it won't be fun.

[Ryumicko]

Thanks Brian...i gotta look into it more.

Ill get back to you. I dont think that i will spend lots of money on a volunteer gig, if i can get real work somewhere.

[Ryumicko]

Yeh, the volulnteer company i contacted are enthusiastic about my money going to them.


turned me off a bit.