Job Discussion Forums

[nomad soul]

A poster in another thread asked, "Does anyone actually believe that a qualification decides who is a good and who is a bad teacher?" This question deserves its own discussion but should include any qualification, whether that be a degree, TEFL certificate, or teaching license.

I responded with the following:

Of course not. A qualification (e.g., degree, certificate, or license) basically signifies the holder has satisfactorily demonstrated knowledge, skills, and/or abilities of a particular standardized activity, tasks, or course of study toward completion. What he/she subsequently does with those KSAs determines the quality of teaching (as well as the students' learning), taking into consideration any or all of the following tangible and intangible criteria:

-- student feedback (e.g., elicited in class, during office visits, or from anonymous surveys on the teacher and course)
-- student course grades and progress
-- students' TOEFL and IELTS results
-- students' level of motivation, cooperation, and engagement
-- students' use of self correction
-- reflective teaching
-- self observation and critique (via videotape)
-- informal peer and formal classroom observations with feedback
-- continuing professional development
...and so on

Teaching and learning are ongoing and fluid. That is, we're constantly practicing the art of teaching---adapting to our students' language needs, the physical learning environment, introduction of new technology, yada yada.

So, what say you? Do you believe a TEFL qualification, degree, or teaching license determines whether a teacher will be effective in the classroom? Why/why not?

[Lack]

No, doesn't mean jack. Problem is, being an actual "good teacher" doesn't matter since it is the employer that decides what "good" is. In Asia, for example, your face is your skill. Just be attractive and don't be unattractive and you are quite a "good teacher" indeed.

[spicnspan]

[nomad soul]

[adaruby]