Job Discussion Forums

MKR · Joined: 23 May 2007 Posts: 27

Hello, I tried to find something on these threads about ESL teaching methods (university) in SA but didn't...so thought to start a thread....Any comments/info is welcome.

Is there something to be said about 'general' teaching methods in SA universities?

Are most (universities) highly engaged with, and supplied with Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) teaching material and methods? I have seen several ads that say they use media based learning.

Is each university independent in their overall choices of material concerning text books, reading material, testing assessment?

Do they have Western published text books, reading material or published in SA?

Is there any standardization of testing assessment for entrance/exit exams or is it usually up to each teacher or each university or ???

etc..etc...

Badar Bin Bada Boom · Posted: Mon Dec 19, 2011 3:15 pm Post subject:

You sound like some starry-eyed straight out of grad school. Or else someone incredibly dedicated who has taught at serious universities...in an ESL nerdy sort of way... In Saudi Arabia you don't get your knickers in a twist about teaching methodologies and CALL. You try to develop a rapport with the students, which is a great challenge for years for most westerners. Then you balance that with your bosses' nearly always arbitrary, unreasonable and petty demands. You take pleasure in your bank account, thoughts of future savings and freedom.

By the way, a good example of technology in the classroom here is when a male teacher has a female class. He has to lecture through closed-circuit TV. No same-room presence. 'Nuff said?

johnslat · Posted: Mon Dec 19, 2011 6:11 pm Post subject:

Dear MKR,

B4's comments may sound cynical - they're not. For almost all the EFL teaching jobs in Saudi, that's a pretty fair appraisal of what goes on (and what doesn't.)

You do the best job you can with what you've got - but it's NOT like teaching ESL in, say, an American college program (and I've done both.)

The students are NOT, for the most part, motivated; administrations are NOT, for the most part, supportive.

Regards,
John

It's Scary! · Joined: 17 Apr 2011 Posts: 823

cmp45 · Joined: 17 Aug 2004 Posts: 1475 Location: KSA

sharter · Joined: 25 Jun 2008 Posts: 878 Location: All over the place

Makes you wonder why an MA is required dunnit?

I've taught in Qatar, Saudi, Libya and Kuwait and can honestly say that building a rapport is the most essential thing with Arab learners. The students have few good examples to follow, lack study skills let alone language skills and institutions are largely managed by numpties. Don't dream of being pro-active and never grumble when your failed students move onwards and upwards.

Count the money, reach your goal and scarper....if you can stick it. Try not to blow thousands every time you get leave because it will only delay your final departure. I keep having the odd 6 months off. Still here. 10 years......where'd it all go?

DirtGuy · Joined: 28 Dec 2004 Posts: 529

Any suggestions as to how to build rapport with Arab students?

Thanks.

DirtGuy

It's Scary! · Joined: 17 Apr 2011 Posts: 823

Let them do and show up for class whatever & whenever they fancy.

It's not as far off the mark as one might think!

DirtGuy · Joined: 28 Dec 2004 Posts: 529

I can see how some teachers could have a problem with this. Would it make sense to use the approach of putting time and effort into helping the serious students and ignoring the rest? That is, of course, if the administrators will let you get away with such a strategy.

DirtGuy

It's Scary! · Joined: 17 Apr 2011 Posts: 823

Naw, the fake students would feel dissed and instantly complained about. You see, they all feel that they must be dealt with equally whether or not they give a crap about learning!

It's a Catch-22 situation any way you look at it!

2buckets · Joined: 14 Dec 2010 Posts: 515 Location: Middle East

Be sincere, consistent, and smile when you mark them late.

ultraman111 · Joined: 17 Sep 2011 Posts: 148

Has anyone taught at ITC for Aramco..? Are their student a bit more motivated? (i hope) Razz

posh · Joined: 22 Oct 2010 Posts: 430

johnslat · Posted: Thu Jan 05, 2012 1:55 pm Post subject:

Dear Dirt Guy,

"Would it make sense to use the approach of putting time and effort into helping the serious students and ignoring the rest?"

Just do the best job you can. If you have some serious students, you'll get through to them. You don't have to concern yourself with "ignoring the rest" because they'll be ignoring you.

Regards,
John

DirtGuy · Joined: 28 Dec 2004 Posts: 529

John,

This sounds like what I do now except that I'm required to try to involve the ones that are trying to ignore me. I'm starting to think teaching in KSA might not be so bad after all.

DirtGuy