Job Discussion Forums

GreenDestiny · Joined: 27 Nov 2004 Posts: 88 Location: International

Hello. In contemplating two Thailand contracts, and can't decide if I want to teach 6-12 year olds, or High School students. Please take into account that this will be my first teaching assignment.

Quite simply: My 'mind' prefers High School level, while my 'heart' leans toward helping youngsters. Each have positive (and certainly negative) aspects.

Any help is greatly appreciated. Cheers.

Chok Dee,
GreenDestiny
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If you change the way you see things, the things you see change.
- Anonymous

Sinobear · Joined: 24 Aug 2004 Posts: 1269 Location: Purgatory

I thoroughly enjoyed teaching children (grades 4-6) after more than 5 years of teaching college kids.
First and foremost, you would need to establish "control" of either group or both would end up a hellish experience.
Children (universally) have that wonderful curiosity (when peaked) about learning and you can spend hours answering their questions and broadening their horizons.
I can't speak for Thai teens, but in China, most teens are in the class because they have to be and naturally resent both the class and you.
If you are a competent teacher, and make learning fun, then either group can make your job seem like a treat. Work for a school that cares about money more than the students, and you'll find that it doesn't matter who or what you teach - your life will be hell.

Find out more about the schools...ask the right questions, and make your decision based on the freedom that you have as a teacher and the motivation that the schools have for wanting you to teach.

Best of luck to you!

GreenDestiny · Joined: 27 Nov 2004 Posts: 88 Location: International

Thank you for the words of encouragement.

Perhaps it's helpful to add that other than my TESOL course practicum, I lack actual classroom experience. It seems teaching children would be easier than High School students. [Thinking of my own High School years...with so much to think about other than class.] Smile

Comments?

Chok Dee,
GreenDestiny

eslHQ · Joined: 29 Jan 2005 Posts: 43 Location: Korea

I have taught all levels in korea and elementary ages are my favorite, particulary age 8-12. They have a great attitude, fun to play games with and make you look forward to your classes.

I have had good experiences with HS but its hit or miss. you might get a really sweet class or a class full of lattitude, though i dont know how thai children are.

i would also look at class size. while teaching 20-30 kids of any age is difficult, HS age might be easier. elem ages in big classrooms is really difficult to manage, but doable.

my ideal class: 8-12 students of 8-12 years old. its my "812 Rule" Very Happy

GreenDestiny · Joined: 27 Nov 2004 Posts: 88 Location: International

It seems the teaching position (children) includes a Thai co-teacher during all classes. Perhaps this would balance the extra energy of teaching young learners. Smile

Chok Dee,
GreenDestiny

eslHQ · Joined: 29 Jan 2005 Posts: 43 Location: Korea

Gordon · Joined: 28 Jan 2003 Posts: 5309 Location: Japan

Eric is right. Another disadvantage about having a "helper" in the classroom is that they are also a sort of spy for the management for you. Everything you do will be known to your boss, so take your helper out and be their best friend.

eslHQ · Joined: 29 Jan 2005 Posts: 43 Location: Korea

I have declined my co-teachers, meaning when the director asks me if i need them i 'just say no'. It seemed for me it was just another person to manage in the classroom. And if your thai or their english is not really good, you'll have a difficult time relating your strategies and methods to them.