Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Oliver]

It's a fundamental question.

I find myself doing on the job training, a lot. For example, quickly evaluating how I did. Looking at things objectively. Researching about teaching methodology.

This is my second year in Korea and I am learning more and more with each day. I just wonder, would a teaching qualification from University, a degree, have served me better? More generally, would a teaching degree have helped the majority of us English teachers in Korea do a better job?

Do other teachers have the same thoughts?

Best,

Ollie

[Wishmaster]

In Korea, no. But do you really want to be a teacher here? Just more stress. But, hey, I'll continue to slack and go on my vacations to SE Asia by not being a teacher.

[liveinkorea316]

Some of us are teachers. Were before we came. I definately think the job is easier and you get more respect if you have had training if only because you know what you are doing and people can see that in the way you go about youe job. It is also less stress if you know what you are doing so you can actually enjoy yourself more.

[sluggo832004]

I been an American Teacher for 3 years.

I think it might be better if they got people with teaching experience, (no offense) but I think if you have the passion and desire to be a good teacher it will work out.

Sometimes experience is the best teacher. Kids are still kids.

But I think a realistic Korea 101 course would greatly help. When I say realistic, like a no no-nonsense course which teaches you what works and what usually does not work.

When I first started working as a teacher, I still had the college mindset. And I took that college mindset with me in the classroom. But I realized Im not dealing with college students, Im dealing with teenagers. So what I usually do is put the fear in God in them the first 3 weeks (veteran teachers call it "training the kids") and let them know this is a dictatorship not a democracy.

After awhile I ease up on them though. Students need to know you are confident, fair, will light their a** up if they even think about getting disrespectful with you. And you need to push them. But then again, i worked in the inner city, so maybe this is how I had to be. lol

I dont know why I typed all this, or if I even answered your question. lol

[Louis VI]

I am an English Language Teacher.

(Some are no more than book generals and worksheet pushers.)

[Hotwire]

We are but our efforts are limited at best due to the barrier of Korean Culture.

Just keep on plugging away for those bright and interested ones that make progress.

That's what keeps me going, knowing that even if one kid out of a thousand who wants to get good at English, gets their goal through me and one day gets a promotion, into a university they want or even is just able to make new friends whilst travelling abroad through the English I taught them - I've done something worthwhile.

[Ramen]

Yes.

[Fishead soup]

I'm an Edutainer. I'm a stand up comedian,a game show host, and a Listen and repeat drill Sergent all in one. I keep changing my hat to suit the needs of the students.

[take a rest]

No.
And that's a good thing.
But I think some people are real teachers.

Personally, I prefer this to real teaching.

[Unposter]

Yes, you are. And, don't let anyone fool you into believing you are not.

And, honest self-reflection and striving to improve ARE what good teachers do. Few are born as a good teacher. It takes effort, training and experience to be a good one.

Regardless of your "degree," go out there and be a teacher; you might be surprised at the results.

[take a rest]

[oldfatfarang]

[Seoul'n'Corea]

[Fox]

[Hotwire]