Korean Job Discussion Forums

[dxr]

What are the pros and cons of teaching at a vocational high school?

[Rteacher]

Well, the students tend to be less advanced (and interested in) learning English.

There is also more corporal punishment of students by Korean teachers - though they're gradually trying to phase it out, I think.

[aarontendo]

So one pro and one con?

[Yu_Bum_suk]

My high school has both an academic and vocational programme. Thankfully I teach 80% academic (only the grade one vocational students get English). Every vocational class has at least a few students who are teachable and seem capable of learning a fair bit, but the class dynamic can vary quite a bit. Over the years I've found that it's best to plan English activities rather than an English lesson per se. Make good use of any A/V aids you have. For the most part it's a world of remedial learning and small victories. You have to approach most students as being false beginners. If you have a few rare students who do show considerable aptitude and interest you may wish to arrange to do some extra work with them outside regular lessons.

That said, there are a few vocational high schools that have more desired programmes, attract decent students, and have minimal entry standards. The students at such schools would be much better attitude-wise.

[Easter Clark]

Cons
1. Students have a poor attitude towards learning in general and English in particular.
2. Students' level is generally very low. This is good for those who like teaching beginners, but requires a lot of patience on your part.
3. If you have coteachers who are indifferent when it comes to your class, you could be fighting an uphill battle each and every class.

Pros
1. It's very easy to see if students are making progress.
2. After teaching at a school like this, other places are a breeze to work at.
3. You'll become a better teacher because you're used to having to simplify everything.
4. Your classroom management techniques will either greatly improve or you will quit.

Overall, I love my school, even though a couple of classes are a bit *challenging*! I've had to modify my teaching style and lower my expectations a bit since coming here, but seeing the kids improve (even if it is at a snail's pace) both their spoken English and their behavior makes it all worthwhile. The first couple of weeks of a new term are always stressful, as that's the time when you have to "break them in," but the job does have its rewards.

[Hank the Iconoclast]

I respect those that can do it. I have middle school students that are on track to the vocational high school next door to here. They can be very sweet to downright rude. It's difficult to discipline them when I only see them once a week for 45 minutes but you can see the progress they are making. That is of course if they actually do the work.