Job Discussion Forums

[Omeo]

I've noticed, as I've read through various posts on this site, that some people indicate that the more qualifications you have for teaching, the less likely you are to be hired at an eikaiwa. I've been planning on taking a certification course through Bridge-Linguatec in Denver in the spring because a.) I want to have some idea of what teaching English will be like and how to do it, and b.) I thought being certified would look good on a resume. Am I wrong? Should I skip the certification and save myself a couple thousand bucks? As I said, I'm pretty much planning on teaching in the eikaiwa and not the high schools or universities. Will the eikaiwa give me all the training they want me to have? Just thought I should ask. Thank you.

[PAULH]

[Glenski]

If you are sure you will be in this game for a very short time, it may not be worth it to get certification. If you aren't sure at all, or if you think you will last, get it.

1. Despite the fact that it's not absolutely necessary for eikaiwas that have their own format, not all eikaiwas have their own system.

2. Even with a system handed to you, it makes life easier knowing what you are doing from various theoretical standpoints.

3. Knowing how to make and present a lesson plan is one thing, but you might actually get some inkling of how to troubleshoot a bad one or a bad group of students if you have some training.

4. Who's to say that your job outlook will encompass only eikaiwas? After a year or so, you might be tempted to take on private lessons or business English lessons or even to run your own business. People do it with no training, of course, but I would have to say that it makes the going much smoother if you have some.

[red dog]

If you don't speak Japanese, you might also want to consider whether a basic Japanese language course is a better investment.

[Omeo]

I'm doing my best to learn Japanese on my own. I've got the Rosetta Stone software, some vocabulary flash cards, and a good book on Japanese grammar and sentence structure. I've also got a pen pal I've been emailing back and forth with. I'm helping her with her English (which seems like it's basicly what I'd be doing in an eikaiwa) and she's helping me with my Japanese. I'll have to mention, at the interview, that I know better than to use any Japanese in the classroom. I probably still won't be all that good at it by the time I get there anyway.

I planned on remaining flexible about the lesson plans. I realize that the methods they teach me in the course may not bare much of any resemblence at all to the way they'll want me to teach when I get there. I just figure taking a course is better than going at it completely blind.

By the way, I know I'm changing the subject, here, but does anyone know if the eikaiwa will hire you before you've finished your bachelors degree on the condition that you do finish it before they bring you over there? I understand the hiring season is highest in February and March but I'm not graduating until May. It'd make things easier if I could interview during the winer break in January.

Thanks for the advice.

[HollyC]

I had no problem finding a job without Japanese language skills. I worked for a High School as an ALT and they completely discouraged me from speaking Japanese so really the choice is up to you. I know many people just studied once they got to Japan.

As for being certified, The first 3 years I wasn't certified and had no problems finding a job. The schools I worked for had their own training. I did however get certified the 4th year but it didn't help me with getting a raise or a better job although I do know of companies that give you more money if you do have a certain type of certification. The class helped me to do better lessons and gave me more ideas to expand. I'm glad I did it.

And for schools hiring you before you graduate? I'm not sure because in order for the school to process your visa, you must send them your original Degree but I have heard of people getting a job without their degree although I don't think its legal. GOod Luck.

[red dog]

I've also found jobs with no Korean/Japanese ability but I'm sure my life in both countries would have been a million times better if I'd been able to communicate with the local people. Lots of people do study once they get here, but it's very easy to let things slide when you're stressed out at a new job and may be going through culture shock/EFL shock too.

... just something to think about, I suppose ...

To the OP: So how is the Rosetta Stone method working for you? Is it any good?

[Omeo]

The software's pretty good. The ads say this is the software used by the State Department and the CIA and it's easy to see why. It uses immersion, basically. It's a lot better at building your vocabulary than teaching you about grammar and parts of speech, though, which is why I got the book. I'd recommend it.

[red dog]

[Glenski]

Yes, places will hire you before you complete your degree, but I can't tell you what percentage will. As mentioned, you will have to prove to immigration you are indeed going to graduate before they'll issue a work visa, but since that takes a month or two anyway, and any sensible employer will realize it'll take you 2-3 months to prepare to come here, you should be all right.

[Omeo]

Can you plan a good demo lesson for the interviews without getting certified based on what's available on the internet?

[womblingfree]

[womblingfree]