Korean Job Discussion Forums

Caligirl2 · Joined: 22 Jun 2007

I teach in an afterschool program at an elementary school and we have open class every 6 months. I teach 5 classes so we have 5 classes to do open class with.

This day for me is HELL!!!!! It's the only thing that I truly have to say that I can stand about my job and dread. I've tried everything to have the parents go away happy such as do it Korean style the way other teachers do it but on those days the students don't talk so it's really hard to get the energy up in the class. Then I've tried where I have students memorize scripts with props, that way the parents can see how well the students are doing. But they still walk away negative. I think the students are doing great and they have really improved but the parents just never seem happy!!!! My classes are fairly big 18 students average.

I would love to hear what other teachers do or handle this open class day and whether or not you do have open class and if not how you got out of it.

Thank you would love any useful input.

mrsquirrel · Joined: 13 Dec 2006

You will only ever hear negative feedback.

Don't worry about it.

If it ever comes to a head. Ask the parents if when their car breaks down do they got to the garage and tell the mechanic what to do.

NicRenee · Joined: 10 Apr 2007 Location: Seoul

I LOVE open class days because the kids are angels. Of course some of them refuse to talk and then their parents are unhappy, but Korean parents are NEVER totally happy. Generally. I've been doing open classes for a year now and it's always the same. Just try to relax and do your best to make the kids relax too. I always try to make them laugh, which helps. The worst thing you can do is show the kids you are nervous or worried. They will react and make things difficult. And it's true, you will rarely hear the positive feedback, it's the Korean way. I used to get criticized for not putting negative feedback on students report cards - they think it's essential. Best of luck!! Don't let what the parents' say bring you down, their words are meaningless to you (make it your mantra!!)

kigolo1881 · Joined: 30 Jul 2006

you have a big class with 18 ?

try mine, its 3 times bigger!