How to Become an Effective English Teacher Abroad

Ever considered teaching English abroad? If so, you probably have also wondered if you'd be able to do it well. If you have the right amount of enthusiasm and a commitment to the students' goals, you probably could. But before you step into class, let's talk about what else you need to do.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Preparation, preparation, preparation. This cannot be stressed enough. Have a clear goal for every class you teach and have a lesson plan that will give the students good practice using the target language. If you come into class with a well-thought-out lesson plan, you've already done 90% of the work.
2. Be confidant. It can be quite daunting and nerve-wracking when you're up in front of the class with eight pairs of eyes staring directly at you, but don't let them see you sweat. Remember that you have the answers they're looking for. You are the resident expert on the subject at hand. So take your time, make as much eye-contact as possible when you're speaking to them, and have confidence in your tone.
3. Promote a comfortable and professional learning environment. It may be hard to believe, but sometimes students are afraid to speak English in English class--primarily because they fear making mistakes in front of everyone. Encourage your students to practice speaking in class and tell them that it's OK to make mistakes. In fact, that's the best way to learn.
4. Be patient. Remember that your students are learning an entirely different language. It's easy to forget that sometimes. What may seem easy to you is probably not for them, so give them the time to learn. And try to avoid rushing them or showing frustration at any point during the lesson.
5. Inject your personality whenever you can. If you want to create a comfortable environment, have fun in class. Let that side out of you every once in a while. It relieves tension by providing the necessary breaks to the serious task at hand. In addition, it reminds the students that you are a person and not a robot. Plus it can put you more at ease as well. Thus, making the class more comfortable and fun for you.

Tips & Warnings

• If you do decide to get a job teaching abroad, please treat it as such--as a job and not as a way to get a vacation. It'll be a much more rewarding experience overall if you give your job the respect that it deserves.
• As cliche as it sounds, working and living abroad really is a great opportunity to learn about another language, culture and, more importantly, yourself.