Job Discussion Forums

[Mark]

Hi folks,

A few questions here for anyone with a few spare moments. As for me, I live in Tokyo and teach at an eikawa. I'm certified to teach ESL and I had about 1500 hours in the classroom teaching adults before I came to Japan.

First, I'm considering applying to Berlitz and I'm wondering if anyone has any experience with this company. Any experiences would be appreciated.

Second, how's the market in Sapporo these days. I'd heard that it was in rough shape and I'm wondering if that's the case. I'd really like to head north, though, so I'd appreciate any comments on the state of things in Sapporo\Hokkaido.

Third, roughly the same question for Kobe. If I can't head north, I might head west and I've been told that Kobe has a temperate climate and a long history of dealing with foreigners. Any thoughts?

Fourth, am I nuts to really, really want to avoid teaching kids? I realise that it's a big part of the market here, but I just can't get into it. Basically, I don't like doing things badly, so what I'd normally do is spend time becoming good at the thing that I need to do. But I have many things to accomplish in Japan, and I don't plan to dedicate a lot of time to studying children's teaching methodology. Even if I did, I'm not sure that I'd ever be happy doing it. It's a completely different skill set from teaching adults. Anyone had an experience where they strongly disliked teaching kids but then came to enjoy it after a certain period of time? This kids thing is really stressing me out. I don't mind teaching interested teenagers, but the little kids.....

Thanks in advance for any and all replies,

Mark

[king kakipi]

I haven`t worked for Berlitz but I did `check them out`. Any position with them involves teaching young kids (through the Sesame Street characters, singing a song each lesson etc) and it is also a compulsory part of the (unpaid) training.

[Glenski]

Sapporo is pretty much like everywhere else. We have GEOS, NOVA, AEON, IAY, ECC Junior, Berlitz, and lots of small eikaiwas. Plenty of foreigners up here, too, for competition. Also plenty of high schools and a smattering of colleges.