Korean Job Discussion Forums

phusion · Joined: 21 Nov 2005

Hey all,

So this is an honest question...I've convinced myself that I'm ready to go to Korea so I've started my search for a good PS job for August/September. Here's my situation:

1) I've never formally taught students in any capacity
2) I have a BA and an online TEFL certificate
3) I get pretty nervous in front of groups but I tend to get through presentations, etc. OK if I'm prepared
4) I'm often told that I'm patient with people and I do like teaching or training people one-on-one or in small groups. The only real experience that I've had with this, however, has been in the IT field (which I'm trying to transition out of--I'm working on a master's and would like to eventually teach at the university level).

I'm sort of an introvert and can be quiet in certain situations, but I don't really consider myself a loner and I do have a handful of great friends. I don't really have a problem meeting people.

I'm concerned about getting up in front of large classes and trying to teach them. What if I'm really BORING and put my students to sleep? What if I am really nervous in front of the class and my students take notice/advantage of it?

So my question is...Are these common fears for newbie teachers? Was anyone else in the same position and did you just take the leap and go? Does it get easier?

I'm looking at Korea as the beginning of a new career. It is my hope that by jumping "into the deep end" I can just get over my fears and become more comfortable in front of large groups. Is this a crazy idea?

Thanks for any advice you can offer. Smile

Stevie_B · Joined: 14 May 2008

xtchr · Joined: 23 Nov 2004

OnTheOtherSide · Joined: 29 Feb 2008

This teaching gig is a freakin cakewalk. Working at the coffee shop was harder than this. Just dive right in and you'll be fine.

Cakewalk. Remember that.

SirFink · Joined: 05 Mar 2006

chickyabroad · Joined: 24 Jul 2006 Location: Seoul

phusion · Joined: 21 Nov 2005

lsrupert · Joined: 27 Aug 2006

Ya-ta Boy · Joined: 16 Jan 2003 Location: Established in 1994

The anxieties you expressed in the OP are normal for not only people who come here, but for many beginning teachers anywhere. A fair percentage of the professional teachers I've worked with over the years are quiet, introverted people outside the classroom. In discussions with them, a common strategy many of them say they use was that when they are in front of the classroom they take on their Teacher Persona, a character they have developed just like an actor develops. While not assertive in 'real life' they can be in the classroom by copying the teachers they've had when they were students.

Not everyone is cut out to be a teacher and not everyone is cut out for Korea. There is no way to know unless you try. If you suceed, great; if you fail, go to Plan B.

I disagree with some of the other posts:

a) I disagree that this isn't a real job. It is. People are paying good money to get good results. You have a responsibility to do your best. Yes, people are hired who can't spell, don't know squat about grammar, speak in sentences with complicated grammar, slang and idioms. That is because Korea is desperate to fill the spots. You'll do best if you simplify the grammar, check your spelling, delete the slang and idioms except when you are consciously teaching those things and control the speed of your speaking.

b) I disagree about the lack of memories to share in the future. I've had tons of experiences I would never have had if I had stayed home. That's why I came and why I've stayed. I've worked with some of the most amazing people I've met in my life. It's been an adventure.

Something to think about: If you have never taught before, you might want to co