Job Discussion Forums

[Nabby Adams]

I really am finding it hard to make my mind up. So I hope that I can find some words of wisdom.
I live in Japan, I am very happy here. I have a great job, though of course nothing is forever, especially in TEFL.
I want to do an MA as I feel after 10 years teaching it's time to move up to the next level.

There is an English language MA in TESOL at this university http://www.tuj.ac.jp/newsite/main/tesol/index.html
I am certain that the quality of instruction is very good.

Or I could do a distance learning degree.

The thing is I would love to do it on campus as you can't beat the quality of classroom interaction, BUT with an eye to the future.........What will an MA from a Japanese university (though it is actually an American university with a campus in Japan) be worth in other countries?

One day I may(or may not) teach elsewhere, but I certainly would like the option. I do like the higher salaries and better conditions that having an MA brings and would be very sad if after I possibly leave Japan my MA didn't get me any further up the totem pole.

So in a nutshell.......Distance learning MA from uk, or on campus in Japan?

[Marcoregano]

If you can afford it I'd say the f/t campus-based option is better - it's more fun and much more interesting dealing with real people. Temple is a decent US university and that's what will go on your certificate even if the campus is in Japan.

[Thwartley]

I would say go for the online/distance degree. In 5-10 years' time, online learning is going to explode and any stigma associated with it will be gone.

Why bankrupt yourself when you can gain as much by doing it online while continuing to work? At the same time, you will be gaining valuable insight into a developing aspect of education. That experience itself may draw you into working in the field.

[Justin Trullinger]

I'm doing a Masters at distance, and am enjoying it a lot. (Aston in the UK)

I agree that the on campus element would be enjoyable. I'm less sure that the learning would be better, as the real advantage of doing it the way I am is that I'm still teaching, every day, with my real students. Gives me a chance to really apply what I'm learning, and do lots of cool action research. Neither of these would be so strongly true on most full-time on-campus programs.

Have to admit that the financial side is real as well- the fact that I can do this without taking time off from working really helps.

But some people really have a hard time with distance learning- I think knowing yourself is a big thing here. Can you work to deadlines and high standards when no one else around you is keeping track? Are you comfortable with most of your tutor contact being by email? How is the area you're in for finding materials?


Best,
justin