Job Discussion Forums

[denise]

You will see job ads that request BEds, specializations in primary education, etc. (for elementary schools--they want to make sure you're trained to deal with kiddies!), but other than under those circumstances, I agree with the folks who say that your BA doesn't really matter. Mine was in Peace and Conflict Studies! It often does matter that you have one, of course. Your question seemed to be more about your own preparation, though, and not just about having the required document. Hmmm...Keep in mind that when new teachers first enter this profession, they often work for private language institutes, which means that they teach general English to kids/teens/adults and business English. You're not likely to end up with groups of students who ask nitty-gritty grammar questions, nor will your employer expect it of you. What is more important is classroom management, keeping the students motivated and engaged, etc. (i.e., less theory and more practice).

The strategy that I followed, and that has worked for me (I was in your position--wanting to do a good job, not just get paid to be a native speaker), was getting a TEFL certificate, teaching for two years to see if I liked it and whether I thought I was any good at it, and then going back to get an MA with the understanding that it would lead to more rigorous, academic-type teaching positions. It paid off (well, not financially--sob sob), and not having studied linguistics or education as an undergrad has never been a hindrance.

And thank you for the kind words!

d