Job Discussion Forums

wildewoman · Joined: 27 Jan 2008 Posts: 2

I really want to teach english in China but I've decided not to enroll in TESOL classes due to the high cost and my understanding that they may not be entirely necessary if I hold a college degree. But I'm not sure what step to take next. There is so much out there; warnings, excitement and more warnings..
I would like to leave sometime this summer and have been doing much research but I guess what I need is some support. And some answers to some of my questions. Was it a good decision to not attend TESOL classes? I'm not looking to make this a life long career, I am looking at this experience as an adventure.
Has anyone heard of "Reach to Teach' placement company. There is not a lot of information in their 'about us' page and that kind of makes me suspicious. Am I being overly suspicious??? Should I just do this as well as possible and not worry so much? Or should I do extensive homework? I would appreciate any suggestions.

cspitzig · Joined: 01 Nov 2007 Posts: 56

You can do a search for Reach to Teach here. You have to just search "reach", though. Most of the threads here use the word "teach". They seem to have a good reputation.

wildewoman · Joined: 27 Jan 2008 Posts: 2

Thanks so much for your reply. I will investigate Reach to Teach further.

wildchild · Joined: 14 Nov 2005 Posts: 519 Location: Puebla 2009 - 2010

and since you're not taking the TESOL class, it would be best to educate yourself on the issues; get a hold of some literature.

Sadebugo · Joined: 10 May 2003 Posts: 524

Since you're not doing the cert., be sure to observe other instructors in your workplace to pick up techniques, etc. Also, if you have some kind of coordinator/supervisor where you're going, you could ask this person to observe your classes and provide feedback.

I also did not have a cert. when I began my career in Korea. The company did provide two weeks of in-house training, but I really learned how to teach once I started doing it and getting feedback from my coordinator.

So don't worry too much. Here I am 13 years later with an MATEFL and US government position. If you like teaching, you'll probably thrive. If not, you'll know when it's time to get out. Hope this helps.

Sadebugo
Djibouti, Horn of Africa
http://travldawrld.blogspot.com/