Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Taiwantroll]

Hello,

I don't know the current law, but I have a friend who swears that laws will be implemented this year allowing persons from non-English speaking countries to be hired to teach English, specifically in the public school programs.

My question is twofold. First, what are the laws now? And second, what do you think the minimum requirements will be for Filipino, Indian, etc. teachers.

I assume a Masters my be required. But can that be a Masters in Education rather than English? Will licensed teachers get consideration, as opposed to English degree holders?

Taiwantroll

[sargx]

Doesn't that defeat the purpose of the Engrishee programu?

[Taiwantroll]

Why?

The stated purpose of the English program is to train Korean English teachers in better teaching practices and to improve English ability. If you hire teachers from countries with better English programs and teachers with next-to native English ability, it seems you are fulfilling your purpose.

In fact, highly trained and qualified English teachers from non-English speaking countries can arguably do a better job than we can, as a whole. Why? Because they will be trained teachers whereas too many native English speakers have no or very little teacher training. And they will likely work harder and for less money.

[trachys]

Generally, better a trained and experienced language teacher from Nigeria than a Canadian with a CELTA and a history degree (no offense to Canadian historians with a CELTA of course).

Better for Korean learners that is, obviously not good for learners in Nigeria.

[nomad-ish]

[fancypants]

There's a big difference between an expert in language teaching (don't have to be a native speaker), an expert in English (have to know a lot about grammar rules but can be a non-native speaker), and a great speaker of English (have to be native, for the most part). "Native speaker" one-year contract ESL teachers in Korea are, for the most, experts in speaking English but with lots of time, commitment, and passion, can become experts in language teaching.

ESL students need good language teachers. But, I might add, all instruction should be in English.