Job Discussion Forums

[kwayne]

I'm new here and am seriously considering going back overseas to teach in Eastern Europe (I lived in Germany and a variety of other places for a couple of years for work). I'm sure this question has been asked before, but I couldn't find it when I searched, but for all of you that have TESL experience: Did you enjoy it?
Now, I don't mean the living overseas, traveling around, meeting other people, etc. I mean the teaching part. Was is frustrating? Enjoyable? Did you want to pull your hair out trying to get non-English speakers to pay attention and learn?
I took German classes taught in German and saw how wonderful it is to teach in the language one is learning, but how is it from the teacher's perspective? I'm an engineer now, so other than coaching soccer, I don't really know how I'll be as a teacher. So I'm hoping to hear some more info from those that are experienced. Ok, done babbling, and I really appreicate your responses!
Thanks!

[denise]

Yes, I've enjoyed it very much. There are frustrating days, but I've been able to keep a positive perspective and look at them as learning experiences: what went wrong? what could I try differently? what factors were/were not under my control? (So I know what I can and cannot change.)

Ask yourself a couple of questions before looking for a job: do you feel comfortable with kids? teenagers? adults? How firm a grasp do you have of grammar rules? What about small groups vs. large groups? Level of language skills--some people love teaching beginners, because they can see the results instantly--teach them 10 new words and maybe they've doubled their vocabulary--a very noticeable improvement. Personally, I prefer higher levels and a very academic focus. If you can identify which sorts of groups you would like to teach (and of course, if you haven't taught before you might need to dabble a bit to figure out what you like...), you can then focus your job searches on only those positions that will make you happy. I love university work, am indifferent towards business English, and have never been a kid person, so I know what kinds of jobs to look for.

Find the right job and you'll have many rewarding days.

Good luck,
d

[kwayne]

Thanks for the reply and info. Grammar feel pretty comfortable with. I was raised by an English teacher who engrained it into my head, plus learning German forced me to look at English grammar again. I sort of fear teaching little kids, but I've coached several 12 and under soccer teams and loved that age group. I think my biggest concern is trying to teach without being able to fully explain oneself. Hmmm, I'll keep looking around, but I'm definitely leaning towards "taking the plunge".
Now if I could just sell my house...

[Brooks]

I worked in Poland and in Russia and I had good experiences there.
I worked at universities in both countries, but in Russia I also taught kids and teenagers.
Where do you want to teach?