Korean Job Discussion Forums

VikingNinja · Joined: 06 Jul 2011

Hello all,

I'm visiting Korea towards the end of September for tourism, but I'm also interested in taking some time during my trip to explore the possibility of taking up EFL as a future career change. I was wondering if any veteran teachers out there would be interested in humouring my curiosity and allowing me to observe a class or two? I want to get a sense of what it's like to be an English teacher in Korea before I jump in.

A bit about me: I'm a 31 year old Canadian guy, I have a BA and MA, no certificates, but I did tutor EFL a little several years ago. I'll probably only be visiting Seoul and its surrounding area due to time constraints. I'm only interested in teaching adult learners, so public schools and kindergartens aren't really my thing. Ideally I'd like to teach at a university, but I suppose it's more realistic for a novice like me to start at a private school. That said, I'd appreciate observing both settings for my future reference if possible.

I'd be happy to return the favour in beer or bulgogi or whatever the nominal currency among friends is over there. Smile

Anyway, if anyone is feeling particularly nice and might be interested in helping me out, it would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

andrewchon · Posted: Wed Aug 17, 2011 11:18 am Post subject:

There are school open days in Korea. Also, all teachers do demo lessons once (maybe more) a year, usually at the beginning of the year around March,April. You are free to go to these. Schools advertise with big banners that they are having demo lessons ( to attract more students).

There are 'reality' videos of teaching English in Korea on Youtube. Loads of them. Good, bad and ugly, they are all there.

DaHu · Joined: 09 Feb 2011

If you can get a job in your own country, do that instead. If not, it is difficult to watch a class outside scheduled times. I mean, a single guy, stalking kids? No no no!

Malislamusrex · Joined: 01 Feb 2010

Why don't you have any certificates for your qualifications?

would be the first question you are going to face.

schwa · Joined: 18 Jan 2003 Location: Yap

Strikes me as a perfectly reasonable request. I think it would be a good thing if more people toying with teaching here could have a chance to observe actual classes before committing. Good on you for your initiative & best luck.

I'd happily offer but I'm a ways out from Seoul & mostly teach teens.