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#1 Parent Dragonized - 2010-09-22
Re: ESL teaching - what do you recommend for beginning teachers?

I would have to agree with Sanguine about working in China. It can really drag on you and make you tired eventually. You don't want the experience to leave a bitter taste in your mouth. I would recommend working elsewhere as well.

#2 Parent Sanguine - 2010-09-20
Re: ESL teaching - what do you recommend for beginning teachers?

Umm, hard to give advice here, as I counsel most people who are thinking about coming to China to teach English not to. Maybe 10 years ago I'd have counseled different, and often did, but this is not 1999. Things have changed a lot, but not for the better. Market's too saturated, and finding decent work is harder and harder as schools lower standards and higher more and more green teachers because they cost so much less.

I'd have to advise you against coming to China at least to teach English. I'd suggest Japan if you want my humble opinion. Japan pays far better in general, and there are more opportunities because they have higher standards. You can not work there as a teacher without a degree, unlike in China where many can and do. You won't make any decent money in China, and you're more likely to be screwed than not. Japan is a good overall choice if you have an actual degree, you will have many more legal protections as it's a far less corrupt government, as well as a more developed country. That and you will also be able to save money.

I don't counsel people to come to China anymore. 7, 10 years back I was still doing so, but not anymore. It's just too treacherous here for the inexperienced, and even for the experiences really. Try Japan, it's a much more viable option.

#3 Parent englishgibson - 2010-09-19
Re: ESL teaching - what do you recommend for beginning teachers?

I think it depends on your character what you should look for. Some countries/jobs may put you into a great culture shock or demand your high level of independance there and some places may offer you an introduction, training or a sort of pro development and even opportunities for advancement. Some countries are more and some less civilized for the ones from developed world. But I bet you know all that. What I am saying is that you should consider these aspects prior to your job search. If I were you, I'd probably seek a place where they offer at least some accademic support to teachers and where they evaluate more comprehensively. That all comes with a comprehensive contractual agreement in between you and the company/school as well. All the best and
Cheers and beers

Liz - 2010-09-19
ESL teaching - what do you recommend for beginning teachers?

Hi guys,

I am a soon to be graduating teacher in Australia. I am really interested in the area of ESL teaching although have not had much exposure to it so would love to learn more about it.

What do you recommend for graduating students who have ESL students in their class?

Any advice/tips would be much appreciated!

Cheers,

Liz for Australia

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