A note to anyone applying to work for English Time in Istanbul.
As we all know, just because someone can speak a language, it doesn't mean they can teach it. Additionally, just because someone can teach a language, it doesn't mean they can write a text.
English Time is about to begin using texts written by some of their Head Teachers. The pilot program for these "texts" was disasterous. None of the students did well - and nearly all of the teachers hated it. Still, the school insists on implementing this new program. What is the purpose of a pilot program, if not to ascertain whether a program is viable?
In a nutshell, these texts go against all current understanding of the best ways to learn and integrate new languages. They will entail a period of weeks where only grammar is taught, then only speaking, then only reading, etc. During the grammar phase, students are told to withhold questions, as they will supposedly be addressed in future units. However, they will be given a grammar test before these other units are taught. One can only assume that this is yet another attempt by English Time to cut their costs at the expense of their students' learning.
Most teachers I've spoken to feel that along with the difficulty of integrating all new information in English Time's 15-hour per week program, these new "texts" will have students more confused and overwhelmed than ever.
Thankfully, English Time's reputation for lack of true dedication to actual learning is getting around. Their new nickname being bandied about is English Crime. It is, indeed, a crime to charge students for a program which doesn't have their best interests at heart.
Istanbul's English Time does it again
Moderators: Dimitris, maneki neko2, Lorikeet, Enrico Palazzo, superpeach, cecil2, Mr. Kalgukshi2
Depressing, illuminating
Thank you for sharing your strong perceptions of an educational experiment that seems to have failed.
Sometimes, we all make good mistakes - as students, teachers, and administrators. It sounds like this effort to create unique materials falls into that category.
Sometimes, we all make good mistakes - as students, teachers, and administrators. It sounds like this effort to create unique materials falls into that category.