Mar
30
Teachers Needed for Worldwide Expansion
Filed Under Business Opportunities | Comments Off
Don Alexander asked:
“How many teachers do you think, if offered the the same opportunity to use their teaching gift,and yet had the potential of making two or three times what they do now, would leave their jobs?
Better yet, what if you or I broke into a staff meeting, and said, “Ok, anyone in here want to make two to three times what you are making, with a credible international company that will allow you to teach with some of the greatest teachers in the nation, and you can set your own hours, as long as you work twenty to thirty hours a week?”
How many teachers do you think would leave that staff meeting and go with you? I’d venture to say about 90% would, and the other ten would stay out of just plain fear or loyalty to their current boss or district.
Well, we offer just such an opportunity for all teachers! You have the opportunity to teach, instruct, lead, in front of small and large groups, and you will also have the opportunity to travel, the world if you choose, or we can use you in your city to teach as well! If there is one thing that teachers are most loyal too, it is their students!
Well, Success University, an international wealth building school, is looking for the best teachers in the world to come together, under one umbrella, to teach a select number of students, whom you would work with personally, one on one, to change lives one at a time.
You see, teaching is not what is used to be. I’ve been a teacher and an assistant principal now in the public school system and teaching has went from students who sometimes rebel, to your class feeling like the special ed class down the hall.
Why is this? Lack of parenting. Lack of moral direction. Lack of anyone or anybody taking any interest in their lives at all. Fathers are leaving their kids as fast as they’d leave a woman they didn’t want. Kids are becoming their parents: lazy, out of shape, five year olds are addicted to Playstation, Nintendo DS, and the T.V. Five year olds!
Recently I had the distinct pleasure of meeting Matt Morris, president of Success University, who stated just one part of his massive vision: “I see a world where our kids can grow up with no crime.” Yes, I’m a teacher. Yes, I’m one of Matt’s students. I believe in his world. I believe it is possible.
You see, I’ve taught now almost twenty years, and I am amazed at what’s going on with our students. More importantly though, it’s time that we paid teachers what they should be paid, and give them opportunities to utilize their gifts at the highest possible level. Wouldn’t it be every teachers’ dream to be able to teach and to be to have the potential through excellent instruction, to earn what a CEO earns? Or beyond?
Unfortunately though, there aren’t too many opportunities for teachers out there like this one, unless you are willing to relocate to another country and teach their for a year or two! In today’s terrorist society, that may not suit many teachers. Unless you’re looking for some adventure! (hehe).
Again, I was born to teach. If you were born to teach, why not take the opportunity to look at Success University. They care about their teachers, and they truly give all teachers the opportunity to work one on one with students online all over the world!
Teachers are givers. Teachers are public servants. It’s time to give back to them. It’s time they earned what they are worth. Success University gives all teachers a leveled playing field and does not limit their income based on work experience, years employed, or education.
They just ask for one thing: Are you willing to go to work and teach? Absolutely! Become a part of what Forbes Magazine is calling “Webucation.” Online education is exploding worldwide! Teachers, you can become a part of it now, or weep later when there is a surplus of online schools not needing your services.
Teachers, I implore you, as a twenty year veteran educator and author-use your teaching gift to bless others all across the world and make a great full or part time income online from the comfort of your own home.
JESSIE
“How many teachers do you think, if offered the the same opportunity to use their teaching gift,and yet had the potential of making two or three times what they do now, would leave their jobs?
Better yet, what if you or I broke into a staff meeting, and said, “Ok, anyone in here want to make two to three times what you are making, with a credible international company that will allow you to teach with some of the greatest teachers in the nation, and you can set your own hours, as long as you work twenty to thirty hours a week?”
How many teachers do you think would leave that staff meeting and go with you? I’d venture to say about 90% would, and the other ten would stay out of just plain fear or loyalty to their current boss or district.
Well, we offer just such an opportunity for all teachers! You have the opportunity to teach, instruct, lead, in front of small and large groups, and you will also have the opportunity to travel, the world if you choose, or we can use you in your city to teach as well! If there is one thing that teachers are most loyal too, it is their students!
___________________________________________________________________
Well, Success University, an international wealth building school, is looking for the best teachers in the world to come together, under one umbrella, to teach a select number of students, whom you would work with personally, one on one, to change lives one at a time.
You see, teaching is not what is used to be. I’ve been a teacher and an assistant principal now in the public school system and teaching has went from students who sometimes rebel, to your class feeling like the special ed class down the hall.
Why is this? Lack of parenting. Lack of moral direction. Lack of anyone or anybody taking any interest in their lives at all. Fathers are leaving their kids as fast as they’d leave a woman they didn’t want. Kids are becoming their parents: lazy, out of shape, five year olds are addicted to Playstation, Nintendo DS, and the T.V. Five year olds!
Recently I had the distinct pleasure of meeting Matt Morris, president of Success University, who stated just one part of his massive vision: “I see a world where our kids can grow up with no crime.” Yes, I’m a teacher. Yes, I’m one of Matt’s students. I believe in his world. I believe it is possible.
You see, I’ve taught now almost twenty years, and I am amazed at what’s going on with our students. More importantly though, it’s time that we paid teachers what they should be paid, and give them opportunities to utilize their gifts at the highest possible level. Wouldn’t it be every teachers’ dream to be able to teach and to be to have the potential through excellent instruction, to earn what a CEO earns? Or beyond?
Unfortunately though, there aren’t too many opportunities for teachers out there like this one, unless you are willing to relocate to another country and teach their for a year or two! In today’s terrorist society, that may not suit many teachers. Unless you’re looking for some adventure! (hehe).
Again, I was born to teach. If you were born to teach, why not take the opportunity to look at Success University. They care about their teachers, and they truly give all teachers the opportunity to work one on one with students online all over the world!
Teachers are givers. Teachers are public servants. It’s time to give back to them. It’s time they earned what they are worth. Success University gives all teachers a leveled playing field and does not limit their income based on work experience, years employed, or education.
They just ask for one thing: Are you willing to go to work and teach? Absolutely! Become a part of what Forbes Magazine is calling “Webucation.” Online education is exploding worldwide! Teachers, you can become a part of it now, or weep later when there is a surplus of online schools not needing your services.
Teachers, I implore you, as a twenty year veteran educator and author-use your teaching gift to bless others all across the world and make a great full or part time income online from the comfort of your own home.
JESSIE
Mar
27
The Student-teacher Dance
Filed Under Visual Art | Comments Off
Leyla Najma asked:
There are moments when I watch my student’s dance that I get goose bumps and chills up my spine. And I’m in amazement of their creative “natural state of being”.
As a teacher the ability to ‘teach’ another dancer is a position that I don’t take lightly. It is an honor.
This is the best time and it is a reminder as to why every year I teach and nurture the aspiring belly dancer to be.
The relationship that develops between a teacher and student in any form of learning is a crucial one. Unfortunately I can’t say that all my relationships with my students were the best. Why this happens has been perplexing to me for years. But after years of teaching I often think back remembering some of the interesting situations that have come up with some of my students. Some of these experiences I would like to share with you. Maybe in sharing I will be able to help other teachers out there to see what “not” to do with your students.
The studio that I had a few years ago was a sanctuary for dancers to come in and feel creative and dance freely. This I thought was what everybody wanted who walked through my front door…. well, not quite.
Teaching is one thing but counseling is another. Students would come in and bring in problems, issues, and occasionally bad habits. Now, as a teacher I would give them the best class that I could but eventually I wasn’t leaving the studio until late at night because of my “counseling sessions”. This was nobody’s fault but my own. Well what do you suppose happened? I became involved advising some of my students on issues outside of dance. And eventually these late night talks came back to bite me in my (you know where).
You must first and foremost be their dance teacher…period. As I learned the hard way that is all I was really required to do. But it is hard when a student confides in you to turn your back on her or him and insist that they keep their issues and problems outside the studio. I don’t know a dance teacher who is a friend of mine who can do that. We all want our students to be happy because they in a way become an extension of us. But this is unrealistic because our students are individuals when they walk in the front door and they will continue on in life whether they stay with us or not. I found I did not live in a glass house so I needed to stop being “Leyla the advisor”.
At one point I have to tell you I really thought I had an invisible sign that read:
“If you are a little odd come to my studio”
One couple came into my studio and brought their marital problems with them every time they had class with me.
You can imagine the sarcastic remarks, snide grimaces, and shocking language that was tossed back and forth across the dance floor.
Another student decided she wanted to become a vampire. (That’s a whole other story)
Than there was the student that had two nervous break downs in class to the point I literally had to hold her up and get her to breathing normally as she was crying uncontrollably. She would hold up class for up to 20 minutes.
There was a student who was the tantrum queen if she didn’t understand a combination or if she didn’t get that “personal” attention. She would go and sulk in the corner until
I told her to get back into class. That was her queue to tell me “no”. And she would sit and glare at me throughout the rest of class eventually leaving with a major chip on her shoulder.
Last but not least was the alcoholic dancer who was so “bubbly” in class that she was continually coming on to some of the other students and their spouses. Though, she could never remember any of her inappropriate conduct and was in disbelief when confronted with her actions.
Now, I can’t say everybody has had these kinds of situations but what I realized is that people can’t help but bring their emotional baggage that they are experiencing in life into class. But there are certain lines that cannot be crossed within a studio. So what did I do with students like the ones I mentioned? It was simple; I asked them to leave the studio. The studio was no longer respected by these students. Mutual respect between teachers and students is a must.
I have had a few students who were disappointed in me because they felt I didn’t know as much as they thought I should. This is what I call the “pedestal syndrome”. They quickly put me up on a pedestal only to knock me off at the first hint of disappointment. My first experience with the “pedestal syndrome” was when I had an audition at my studio for my students to have a chance to perform with a local band at one of the casinos here in our area. I had informed the girls ahead of time that I would have snacks and drinks including some alcohol so those dancers apprehensive could have a little something to calm their nerves. The head musician came and all went well I thought. He made his choice and thanked me profusely for having the audition and he thanked the girls for dancing for him. But it all landed on deaf ears. The girls who were not picked got very upset and blamed me. They said he was insulting and that they felt like pieces of meat. The two girls that he picked were my newest students and of course they got picked because they flirted with him according to “these” dancers. All in all I was cornered in my own studio and berated because I should have known better and how could I let any of that happen. I was told that I was not the teacher they thought I was. Students took sides and I lost 4 because of the audition.
My first mistake was thinking that these students could handle the disappointment of not being picked. So they were right, I should have known that. The ego is a very fragile and shallow part of the human emotions. It doesn’t take much for it to break and for any us to fall apart. I realized at that moment that the dancers who were so quick to put me up on a pedestal were the ones with the most fragile egos. A fragile ego always needs a scapegoat because nobody wants to admit that they weren’t good enough. And if they weren’t good enough to be picked than it had to be my fault. I was their teacher and I should have done better. This was a great lesson for me because I realized that what I had given my students couldn’t be appreciated. They had no guidelines or experience to know that what I did was in the safety of the studio. I knew this because of my auditions I went through over the years. I experienced some really horrible auditions. You can’t give to your students what they can’t appreciate. They won’t respect you for it and you will end up losing them as students.
It’s also important to know when to let your students go. There were a few times that my students didn’t want to go to other teachers. I insist that my students take from as many teachers as possible because I feel they will progress faster. But there are those students that come to us who complain about other studios and teachers. So as a teacher what do we do? If someone says that you are so nice and so and so is so mean and she would much rather take from you, how do you handle it? It’s quite the question because what we say in our dance community will usually get back to the person we talked about. I had a student that came in and told me she had been to many studios and was treated terribly. So I told her stay with me and we’ll see how things go. Well low and behold she was telling the other studios how mean I was during the time she was taking classes from me. So she was taking from all of us and telling each teacher how mean the other teachers were. Eventually a student like this leaves because she can’t ever be satisfied. She creates chaos because if she fails she can blame all her teachers. You can’t take it personal when a student leaves you either in good conditions or bad. Either way we must wish them off on their journey with light and love. This is what our dance is all about.
So what does any of this mean? It means that as long as any of us are willing to teach others this amazing dance form, we will be in the forefront of aspiring belly dancers hopes, dreams,
disappointments and disillusionments. And as long as we continue to learn and grow ourselves we can than become the teachers our students will hold in their hearts as they become the next generation of teachers. And as teachers, what better success can we have than to know that this dance will thrive and grow long after we are gone.
NATHAN
There are moments when I watch my student’s dance that I get goose bumps and chills up my spine. And I’m in amazement of their creative “natural state of being”.
As a teacher the ability to ‘teach’ another dancer is a position that I don’t take lightly. It is an honor.
___________________________________________________________________
This is the best time and it is a reminder as to why every year I teach and nurture the aspiring belly dancer to be.
The relationship that develops between a teacher and student in any form of learning is a crucial one. Unfortunately I can’t say that all my relationships with my students were the best. Why this happens has been perplexing to me for years. But after years of teaching I often think back remembering some of the interesting situations that have come up with some of my students. Some of these experiences I would like to share with you. Maybe in sharing I will be able to help other teachers out there to see what “not” to do with your students.
The studio that I had a few years ago was a sanctuary for dancers to come in and feel creative and dance freely. This I thought was what everybody wanted who walked through my front door…. well, not quite.
Teaching is one thing but counseling is another. Students would come in and bring in problems, issues, and occasionally bad habits. Now, as a teacher I would give them the best class that I could but eventually I wasn’t leaving the studio until late at night because of my “counseling sessions”. This was nobody’s fault but my own. Well what do you suppose happened? I became involved advising some of my students on issues outside of dance. And eventually these late night talks came back to bite me in my (you know where).
You must first and foremost be their dance teacher…period. As I learned the hard way that is all I was really required to do. But it is hard when a student confides in you to turn your back on her or him and insist that they keep their issues and problems outside the studio. I don’t know a dance teacher who is a friend of mine who can do that. We all want our students to be happy because they in a way become an extension of us. But this is unrealistic because our students are individuals when they walk in the front door and they will continue on in life whether they stay with us or not. I found I did not live in a glass house so I needed to stop being “Leyla the advisor”.
At one point I have to tell you I really thought I had an invisible sign that read:
“If you are a little odd come to my studio”
One couple came into my studio and brought their marital problems with them every time they had class with me.
You can imagine the sarcastic remarks, snide grimaces, and shocking language that was tossed back and forth across the dance floor.
Another student decided she wanted to become a vampire. (That’s a whole other story)
Than there was the student that had two nervous break downs in class to the point I literally had to hold her up and get her to breathing normally as she was crying uncontrollably. She would hold up class for up to 20 minutes.
There was a student who was the tantrum queen if she didn’t understand a combination or if she didn’t get that “personal” attention. She would go and sulk in the corner until
I told her to get back into class. That was her queue to tell me “no”. And she would sit and glare at me throughout the rest of class eventually leaving with a major chip on her shoulder.
Last but not least was the alcoholic dancer who was so “bubbly” in class that she was continually coming on to some of the other students and their spouses. Though, she could never remember any of her inappropriate conduct and was in disbelief when confronted with her actions.
Now, I can’t say everybody has had these kinds of situations but what I realized is that people can’t help but bring their emotional baggage that they are experiencing in life into class. But there are certain lines that cannot be crossed within a studio. So what did I do with students like the ones I mentioned? It was simple; I asked them to leave the studio. The studio was no longer respected by these students. Mutual respect between teachers and students is a must.
I have had a few students who were disappointed in me because they felt I didn’t know as much as they thought I should. This is what I call the “pedestal syndrome”. They quickly put me up on a pedestal only to knock me off at the first hint of disappointment. My first experience with the “pedestal syndrome” was when I had an audition at my studio for my students to have a chance to perform with a local band at one of the casinos here in our area. I had informed the girls ahead of time that I would have snacks and drinks including some alcohol so those dancers apprehensive could have a little something to calm their nerves. The head musician came and all went well I thought. He made his choice and thanked me profusely for having the audition and he thanked the girls for dancing for him. But it all landed on deaf ears. The girls who were not picked got very upset and blamed me. They said he was insulting and that they felt like pieces of meat. The two girls that he picked were my newest students and of course they got picked because they flirted with him according to “these” dancers. All in all I was cornered in my own studio and berated because I should have known better and how could I let any of that happen. I was told that I was not the teacher they thought I was. Students took sides and I lost 4 because of the audition.
My first mistake was thinking that these students could handle the disappointment of not being picked. So they were right, I should have known that. The ego is a very fragile and shallow part of the human emotions. It doesn’t take much for it to break and for any us to fall apart. I realized at that moment that the dancers who were so quick to put me up on a pedestal were the ones with the most fragile egos. A fragile ego always needs a scapegoat because nobody wants to admit that they weren’t good enough. And if they weren’t good enough to be picked than it had to be my fault. I was their teacher and I should have done better. This was a great lesson for me because I realized that what I had given my students couldn’t be appreciated. They had no guidelines or experience to know that what I did was in the safety of the studio. I knew this because of my auditions I went through over the years. I experienced some really horrible auditions. You can’t give to your students what they can’t appreciate. They won’t respect you for it and you will end up losing them as students.
It’s also important to know when to let your students go. There were a few times that my students didn’t want to go to other teachers. I insist that my students take from as many teachers as possible because I feel they will progress faster. But there are those students that come to us who complain about other studios and teachers. So as a teacher what do we do? If someone says that you are so nice and so and so is so mean and she would much rather take from you, how do you handle it? It’s quite the question because what we say in our dance community will usually get back to the person we talked about. I had a student that came in and told me she had been to many studios and was treated terribly. So I told her stay with me and we’ll see how things go. Well low and behold she was telling the other studios how mean I was during the time she was taking classes from me. So she was taking from all of us and telling each teacher how mean the other teachers were. Eventually a student like this leaves because she can’t ever be satisfied. She creates chaos because if she fails she can blame all her teachers. You can’t take it personal when a student leaves you either in good conditions or bad. Either way we must wish them off on their journey with light and love. This is what our dance is all about.
So what does any of this mean? It means that as long as any of us are willing to teach others this amazing dance form, we will be in the forefront of aspiring belly dancers hopes, dreams,
disappointments and disillusionments. And as long as we continue to learn and grow ourselves we can than become the teachers our students will hold in their hearts as they become the next generation of teachers. And as teachers, what better success can we have than to know that this dance will thrive and grow long after we are gone.
NATHAN
Mar
26
Various Resources for Music Teachers
Filed Under Homework Help | Comments Off
Music Teacher asked:
Music teaching, do these words ever hit your mind? Some music teachers and learners may find it so simple yet others may consider it quite complicated. I know you would ask me why, right? It is because not all are interested in music and not all are motivated to learn and teach such. Well, I guess as a music teacher, you can only be good at that if you can encourage your students to learn music by heart – making it both their profession and passion.
However, there are some music teachers’ resources that will cite some techniques on how to modify and improve students in the most effective ways. Some can actually be found in books that are specialized in teaching music. Others are from websites having particular forums dedicated to music. Which-of-which will be better than having no resources at all.
On the other hand, music teachers’ resources are very useful and beneficial not only to one field of music but also in a wide variety. A music teacher must also know what type of student he or she has since learning also varies by age, for example.
Young students start learning music in the forms of nursery rhymes. Thus, they can also be further nourished by different musical games or activities suited for their age and interests. At this early stage, teachers can identify most of the children’s capabilities and talents.
On the other hand, older students may learn how to sing and play complex musical instruments. Furthermore, they can also be asked to compose their own music as part of the developmental process.
Some articles or books are very particular on giving some advices and tips on how to make the students more enthusiastic in learning music. Hence, strategies are very important for it will be the determining factor of your effectiveness and efficiency as a teacher. Either theoretical, practical or both, a teacher must be competent and precise to what he or she is teaching. This is where effective music teacher’s resources set in.
Most of the music teachers’ resources today introduce gadgets to make the jobs of the teachers more convenient and effortless. Learning through these resources will certainly be a fun way of learning music. These gadgets can make both the learning and the training more interactive and hands-on.
Nowadays, music teachers’ resources are important factors in teaching music effectively and efficiently. After all, learning is a continuous process that should be both enjoyed by the students and the teachers.
RUSS
Music teaching, do these words ever hit your mind? Some music teachers and learners may find it so simple yet others may consider it quite complicated. I know you would ask me why, right? It is because not all are interested in music and not all are motivated to learn and teach such. Well, I guess as a music teacher, you can only be good at that if you can encourage your students to learn music by heart – making it both their profession and passion.
___________________________________________________________________
However, there are some music teachers’ resources that will cite some techniques on how to modify and improve students in the most effective ways. Some can actually be found in books that are specialized in teaching music. Others are from websites having particular forums dedicated to music. Which-of-which will be better than having no resources at all.
On the other hand, music teachers’ resources are very useful and beneficial not only to one field of music but also in a wide variety. A music teacher must also know what type of student he or she has since learning also varies by age, for example.
Young students start learning music in the forms of nursery rhymes. Thus, they can also be further nourished by different musical games or activities suited for their age and interests. At this early stage, teachers can identify most of the children’s capabilities and talents.
On the other hand, older students may learn how to sing and play complex musical instruments. Furthermore, they can also be asked to compose their own music as part of the developmental process.
Some articles or books are very particular on giving some advices and tips on how to make the students more enthusiastic in learning music. Hence, strategies are very important for it will be the determining factor of your effectiveness and efficiency as a teacher. Either theoretical, practical or both, a teacher must be competent and precise to what he or she is teaching. This is where effective music teacher’s resources set in.
Most of the music teachers’ resources today introduce gadgets to make the jobs of the teachers more convenient and effortless. Learning through these resources will certainly be a fun way of learning music. These gadgets can make both the learning and the training more interactive and hands-on.
Nowadays, music teachers’ resources are important factors in teaching music effectively and efficiently. After all, learning is a continuous process that should be both enjoyed by the students and the teachers.
RUSS
Mar
24
ashley106574 asked:
I have always wanted to become a teacher and now I have decided that I want to become an english teacher. Although, my father said that teachers don’t get paid that much money. Seriously, we all want money, but how much money do teachers usually get?
FELIPE
I have always wanted to become a teacher and now I have decided that I want to become an english teacher. Although, my father said that teachers don’t get paid that much money. Seriously, we all want money, but how much money do teachers usually get?
FELIPE
Mar
24
How to Find a Good Online Teacher
Filed Under Online Education | Comments Off
English4Today asked:
By Anthony Hughes MLitt., Cert TESOL
CEO English4Today
From the English4Today series on online learning
More and more websites and Internet services are offering to find you the ideal English language teacher. Many of them are very good and offer excellent technical and teaching services. But how can you tell the good ones from the bad?
IDENTIFY YOUR NEEDS
Well, it is important to first of all decide what you need and want:
Do you need English training for your job or to prepare for a job interview or entry into a foreign institution?
Do you need to pass an English language assessment examination such as CAELT, TOEFL or IELTS?
Do you need English to satisfy immigration requirements?
Do you need training for a highly specific purpose? For example, you may be giving an important presentation in English or preparing a technical report in English or being sent by your organization to negotiate in English.
Do you just want to practice your conversation skills with someone who is a native speaker?
Do you want to study English for your own pleasure?
If you answered ‘yes’ to 1,2,3 or 4 above then I’d advise you to select online lessons with a professional and qualified English language teacher rather than just someone you meet on the Internet who can speak English.
Professional teachers may cost a little more but you will be learning a lot faster, with better direction and understanding of your needs and from someone who really knows how the English language works. Just because you know how to drive a car it doesn’t mean that you know how the engine works or can explain how to drive to someone else! And so it is with a lot of people who are native English speakers - ask them why we use the Simple Past instead of the Present Perfect and they’ll be hard pressed to answer … let alone give an explanation that you will understand.
If you answered ‘yes’ to 5 or 6 then a native English speaker who isn’t a teacher will probably do and you can find people willing to do this on many of the sites that provide a meeting space for people interested in language learning. The advantage here is that you can usually get this sort of practice free of charge or in exchange for helping someone practice your language.
You also want to be sure that the teacher and the organization that you choose can teach you what you want - not all teachers can teach you presentation or negotiating skills in English or teach academic writing skills if you need to prepare for university.
ASK ABOUT YOUR TEACHER’S QUALIFICATIONS
Don’t hesitate to ask questions about how the teacher works, what their experience and qualifications are and what materials they will use. Some questions you may want to ask are:
What qualifications does my tutor have?
Do they have experience teaching the skills I want to learn?
What materials are used for the online lessons?
How is my progress assessed?
ASK ABOUT THE ‘TOOLS’ YOU NEED AND THE LESSON FORMAT
It is equally important, with online learning, that you are sure that you and the teacher can communicate properly using the tools that you both have. Again, ask questions and avoid problems and disappointment later on:
How long is each lesson?
How do I talk / communicate with my teacher?
What Internet and document tools do I need? (e.g. Skype or MSN, Flash or video plugins, Powerpoint, Acrobat Reader etc.)
What time zone is my teacher in?
Do they (and you) have a high-speed, reliable Internet connection?
Can I try a 10 minute technical test with my teacher before deciding to pay for my lessons?
ASK ABOUT THE COST AND PAYMENT METHODS
The cost may be very important to you as well but when judging the hourly rate of a lesson make sure you factor in how quickly you will get to your goals with the teacher you select and how their experience may, in fact, end up saving you money by getting you where you want to be a lot faster than a less qualified teacher.
Hourly rates for online teaching vary between around $15 an hour up to around $70 for highly specialized training. Remember, it’s not always the cheaper rate that offers the best value! Some questions to ask about cost and payment include:
What is the rate per lesson and how long is a lesson? (online lessons usually go from 30 - 60 minutes)
What are the payment methods accepted (e.g. online with an organization such as PayPal, bank transfer, Western Union etc.)
What are you refund policies?
What are the lesson cancellation policies?
Can I get an invoice to claim back money from my employer for training?
If you’ve got a good idea of who and what you are looking for before you start you, and your teacher, are likely to avoid disappointment and to build a useful teacher-student relationship that will help you quickly improve your English language level.
© Anthony Hughes 2008, All rights reserved
DICK
By Anthony Hughes MLitt., Cert TESOL
CEO English4Today
From the English4Today series on online learning
More and more websites and Internet services are offering to find you the ideal English language teacher. Many of them are very good and offer excellent technical and teaching services. But how can you tell the good ones from the bad?
IDENTIFY YOUR NEEDS
Well, it is important to first of all decide what you need and want:
Do you need English training for your job or to prepare for a job interview or entry into a foreign institution?
Do you need to pass an English language assessment examination such as CAELT, TOEFL or IELTS?
Do you need English to satisfy immigration requirements?
Do you need training for a highly specific purpose? For example, you may be giving an important presentation in English or preparing a technical report in English or being sent by your organization to negotiate in English.
Do you just want to practice your conversation skills with someone who is a native speaker?
Do you want to study English for your own pleasure?
If you answered ‘yes’ to 1,2,3 or 4 above then I’d advise you to select online lessons with a professional and qualified English language teacher rather than just someone you meet on the Internet who can speak English.
Professional teachers may cost a little more but you will be learning a lot faster, with better direction and understanding of your needs and from someone who really knows how the English language works. Just because you know how to drive a car it doesn’t mean that you know how the engine works or can explain how to drive to someone else! And so it is with a lot of people who are native English speakers - ask them why we use the Simple Past instead of the Present Perfect and they’ll be hard pressed to answer … let alone give an explanation that you will understand.
If you answered ‘yes’ to 5 or 6 then a native English speaker who isn’t a teacher will probably do and you can find people willing to do this on many of the sites that provide a meeting space for people interested in language learning. The advantage here is that you can usually get this sort of practice free of charge or in exchange for helping someone practice your language.
You also want to be sure that the teacher and the organization that you choose can teach you what you want - not all teachers can teach you presentation or negotiating skills in English or teach academic writing skills if you need to prepare for university.
ASK ABOUT YOUR TEACHER’S QUALIFICATIONS
Don’t hesitate to ask questions about how the teacher works, what their experience and qualifications are and what materials they will use. Some questions you may want to ask are:
What qualifications does my tutor have?
Do they have experience teaching the skills I want to learn?
What materials are used for the online lessons?
How is my progress assessed?
ASK ABOUT THE ‘TOOLS’ YOU NEED AND THE LESSON FORMAT
It is equally important, with online learning, that you are sure that you and the teacher can communicate properly using the tools that you both have. Again, ask questions and avoid problems and disappointment later on:
How long is each lesson?
How do I talk / communicate with my teacher?
What Internet and document tools do I need? (e.g. Skype or MSN, Flash or video plugins, Powerpoint, Acrobat Reader etc.)
What time zone is my teacher in?
Do they (and you) have a high-speed, reliable Internet connection?
Can I try a 10 minute technical test with my teacher before deciding to pay for my lessons?
ASK ABOUT THE COST AND PAYMENT METHODS
The cost may be very important to you as well but when judging the hourly rate of a lesson make sure you factor in how quickly you will get to your goals with the teacher you select and how their experience may, in fact, end up saving you money by getting you where you want to be a lot faster than a less qualified teacher.
Hourly rates for online teaching vary between around $15 an hour up to around $70 for highly specialized training. Remember, it’s not always the cheaper rate that offers the best value! Some questions to ask about cost and payment include:
What is the rate per lesson and how long is a lesson? (online lessons usually go from 30 - 60 minutes)
What are the payment methods accepted (e.g. online with an organization such as PayPal, bank transfer, Western Union etc.)
What are you refund policies?
What are the lesson cancellation policies?
Can I get an invoice to claim back money from my employer for training?
If you’ve got a good idea of who and what you are looking for before you start you, and your teacher, are likely to avoid disappointment and to build a useful teacher-student relationship that will help you quickly improve your English language level.
© Anthony Hughes 2008, All rights reserved
DICK
Mar
20
Fall: Back To School Gifts For The New Teacher
Filed Under Tutoring | Comments Off
Kim Taylor asked:
Back to school lists are everywhere. Stores are crowded with people rushing around to prepare kids for school. September approaches quickly! Whether your child is in first grade or fifth; a simple gift for their new teacher is a great idea!
Some schools have teacher appreciation days; other teachers never receive the recognition they deserve for their hard work. There are many small easy ways to appreciate and recognize the teacher in your child’s life. Teachers spend countless hours with the children and it is nice to recognize them for all of their hard work. The small little things you can do to make them feel appreciated will mean a lot to them as they start the year off!
Many kids come home with welcome baskets or welcome bags from their new teacher to welcome them into their classroom. Why not purchase a small gift for their teacher as well!
Here are a few suggestions:
1. Cookie Gift Baskets are a nice gift. Find a gift basket that is personalized for a teacher. Gift Baskets are useful for a teacher since once the food is gone, the basket may be used for storage or other items.
2. Personalized Mugs- A great idea for the teacher who loves their coffee in the morning! Most teachers like to keep a beverage in the classroom while teaching. Be thoughtful with a personalized mug with their own name on it to display on their desk.
3. A Unique Wall Clock- One way to impress is to purchase a unique wall clock for the teacher to display on their wall for all to see and enjoy. Since everything is scheduled in school, a wall clock will be most beneficial. The clock can be used by all including your child! It will definitely be a gift the teacher can enjoy day in and day out! With many different wall clocks to choose from, find one that best suites the style of your teacher and their classroom.
4. Games for the Classroom-Many teachers like to include a game shelf in their classrooms for their students for the rainy days! For teachers of older students, a great trivia game is a wonderful idea. Purchasing a game for a teacher’s gift will also benefit your child.
5. The Essential Tote- Teachers are known for carrying tote bags. Why not choose a special tote as a gift! Giving a practical gift that is useful will be remembered. Useful, practical gifts are always appreciated. Purchasing a tote will be appreciated more if you add a personal touch. Take note on the colors around the teachers room if your not certain of the style and color of tote to purchase. It’s always nice to go with a neutral color with a monogram. Find a tote that has pockets for all of the teacher’s accessories!
Overall whatever you choose be sure to include a nice thank you card signed by your child with your gift. Finding the perfect gift online is the easiest way to appreciate that special teacher in your child’s life.
GONZALO
Back to school lists are everywhere. Stores are crowded with people rushing around to prepare kids for school. September approaches quickly! Whether your child is in first grade or fifth; a simple gift for their new teacher is a great idea!
Some schools have teacher appreciation days; other teachers never receive the recognition they deserve for their hard work. There are many small easy ways to appreciate and recognize the teacher in your child’s life. Teachers spend countless hours with the children and it is nice to recognize them for all of their hard work. The small little things you can do to make them feel appreciated will mean a lot to them as they start the year off!
Many kids come home with welcome baskets or welcome bags from their new teacher to welcome them into their classroom. Why not purchase a small gift for their teacher as well!
Here are a few suggestions:
1. Cookie Gift Baskets are a nice gift. Find a gift basket that is personalized for a teacher. Gift Baskets are useful for a teacher since once the food is gone, the basket may be used for storage or other items.
2. Personalized Mugs- A great idea for the teacher who loves their coffee in the morning! Most teachers like to keep a beverage in the classroom while teaching. Be thoughtful with a personalized mug with their own name on it to display on their desk.
3. A Unique Wall Clock- One way to impress is to purchase a unique wall clock for the teacher to display on their wall for all to see and enjoy. Since everything is scheduled in school, a wall clock will be most beneficial. The clock can be used by all including your child! It will definitely be a gift the teacher can enjoy day in and day out! With many different wall clocks to choose from, find one that best suites the style of your teacher and their classroom.
4. Games for the Classroom-Many teachers like to include a game shelf in their classrooms for their students for the rainy days! For teachers of older students, a great trivia game is a wonderful idea. Purchasing a game for a teacher’s gift will also benefit your child.
5. The Essential Tote- Teachers are known for carrying tote bags. Why not choose a special tote as a gift! Giving a practical gift that is useful will be remembered. Useful, practical gifts are always appreciated. Purchasing a tote will be appreciated more if you add a personal touch. Take note on the colors around the teachers room if your not certain of the style and color of tote to purchase. It’s always nice to go with a neutral color with a monogram. Find a tote that has pockets for all of the teacher’s accessories!
Overall whatever you choose be sure to include a nice thank you card signed by your child with your gift. Finding the perfect gift online is the easiest way to appreciate that special teacher in your child’s life.
GONZALO
Mar
18
What kinds of teachers should I get my reccomendations for college from?
Filed Under Higher Education (University +) | 3 Comments
sammy asked:
I am going to apply to a few schools and 2 require a letter of reccomendation. If I get two for one school can I have a teacher send the same two for another school or no? Also, can I get a teacher from freshman year to do it? All of the nice teachers I had were from freshamn or sophomore year so would that work? How would I ask them to write me a reccomendation?
DAVID
I am going to apply to a few schools and 2 require a letter of reccomendation. If I get two for one school can I have a teacher send the same two for another school or no? Also, can I get a teacher from freshman year to do it? All of the nice teachers I had were from freshamn or sophomore year so would that work? How would I ask them to write me a reccomendation?
DAVID
Mar
18
Teacher Job Fair Tip: How to Stand Out at a Teacher Job Fair
Filed Under Self Motivation | Comments Off
Adam Waxler asked:
If you have ever attended a teacher job fair then you know how depressing the experience can be. Thousands of teachers all in one place all with the same goal in mind…getting a teaching job!
Unfortunately, despite the rumors, the fact is teaching jobs are extremely difficult to secure these days. As one quickly discovers at any teacher job fair there are literally thousands of teachers searching for very few jobs. In fact, at the Lee County teacher job fair in Florida just a couple of years ago the county was not offering a single social studies contract in the entire county. And, just last year at the Great Florida Teach-in, I witnessed teacher after teacher walk into the Tampa Convention Center with the hopes of getting a teaching job only to walk out depressed and despondent with no possible prospects.
However, teacher job fairs are NOT a waste of time. The trick is to NOT think you are going to walk out of a teacher job fair with a signed contract, but rather think of the job fair as an opportunity to make contacts that may very likely pay off in long run. You see, what happens at many of these countywide teacher job fairs is that the county does not know exactly how many positions are going to be available. So instead of hiring too many teachers, they hire too few or in some cases none at all. However, as teachers retire, transfer etc. teaching jobs will open up and those teachers who made an impression at the teacher job fair are the ones who will get called.
So how is it possible for a teacher to stand out at a teacher job fair amongst thousands of other teachers?
This is not an easy thing to do…hundreds of teachers must stand in line for hours just to talk to someone for 3 minutes.
The key is to leave something with each person you interview with so they can remember you. There are several ways teachers do this…the most common is to leave your resume, philosophy statement, and/or cover letter, but these are things everyone does and what you want to do is do something that stands out, something different, something that NOT every other teacher there is doing.
What you want to do is leave a professionally designed “teacher brochure”. This is not some “cute” brochure with clipart pictures all over it. Instead you want to create a very professional looking tri-fold “about me” brochure. You will want to highlight important aspects of your resume, teaching philosophy, add professional pictures, and some quotes from your letters of recommendation. Of course, make sure to use quality brochure paper and professional printing.
By handing each interviewer a professional looking brochure you will make yourself stand out as well as give them something physical to hold on to with your contact information.
COLLIN
If you have ever attended a teacher job fair then you know how depressing the experience can be. Thousands of teachers all in one place all with the same goal in mind…getting a teaching job!
Unfortunately, despite the rumors, the fact is teaching jobs are extremely difficult to secure these days. As one quickly discovers at any teacher job fair there are literally thousands of teachers searching for very few jobs. In fact, at the Lee County teacher job fair in Florida just a couple of years ago the county was not offering a single social studies contract in the entire county. And, just last year at the Great Florida Teach-in, I witnessed teacher after teacher walk into the Tampa Convention Center with the hopes of getting a teaching job only to walk out depressed and despondent with no possible prospects.
However, teacher job fairs are NOT a waste of time. The trick is to NOT think you are going to walk out of a teacher job fair with a signed contract, but rather think of the job fair as an opportunity to make contacts that may very likely pay off in long run. You see, what happens at many of these countywide teacher job fairs is that the county does not know exactly how many positions are going to be available. So instead of hiring too many teachers, they hire too few or in some cases none at all. However, as teachers retire, transfer etc. teaching jobs will open up and those teachers who made an impression at the teacher job fair are the ones who will get called.
So how is it possible for a teacher to stand out at a teacher job fair amongst thousands of other teachers?
This is not an easy thing to do…hundreds of teachers must stand in line for hours just to talk to someone for 3 minutes.
The key is to leave something with each person you interview with so they can remember you. There are several ways teachers do this…the most common is to leave your resume, philosophy statement, and/or cover letter, but these are things everyone does and what you want to do is do something that stands out, something different, something that NOT every other teacher there is doing.
What you want to do is leave a professionally designed “teacher brochure”. This is not some “cute” brochure with clipart pictures all over it. Instead you want to create a very professional looking tri-fold “about me” brochure. You will want to highlight important aspects of your resume, teaching philosophy, add professional pictures, and some quotes from your letters of recommendation. Of course, make sure to use quality brochure paper and professional printing.
By handing each interviewer a professional looking brochure you will make yourself stand out as well as give them something physical to hold on to with your contact information.
COLLIN
Mar
10
How do benefits work for American teachers?
Filed Under Teaching | 4 Comments
Jan K asked:
I understand teachers aren’t paid through the summer. But, as a possible future secondery school teacher, how do benefit premiums work? Do I pay my benefit premiums for the whole summer the last paycheck before summer?
TAYLOR
I understand teachers aren’t paid through the summer. But, as a possible future secondery school teacher, how do benefit premiums work? Do I pay my benefit premiums for the whole summer the last paycheck before summer?
TAYLOR
Mar
9
rain asked:
I mean in France for example, everyone works 4 days a week, and teachers are more respected and get higher pay then teachers in the USA. But in the USA, there is a high turnover rate for teachers and many teachers experience a burnout after a few years on the job, because of all the stress and not enough income.
RODNEY
I mean in France for example, everyone works 4 days a week, and teachers are more respected and get higher pay then teachers in the USA. But in the USA, there is a high turnover rate for teachers and many teachers experience a burnout after a few years on the job, because of all the stress and not enough income.
RODNEY