Teaching in Japan |
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Interview with Elizabeth Scally, currently teaching in Japan
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What do you dislike the most?
The inaccessible Japanese text. I'm a compulsive reader, and here,
I'm
stuck because I can't read a newspaper or magazine with ease. Reading
local publications is the best way to get a handle on the culture, how
to meet people and learn which issues are important to people. Japanese
kanji characters are frustrating me, but I'm studying now.
How did you get started teaching abroad?
I started on the JET program in 1999. I was placed in rural Shikoku
Island.
Do you have any back ground in teaching English, if not, how did you
learn?
My first teaching position was at a Chinese Buddhist temple where I
taught nuns and parishioners. Since that first experience, I've done a
TESOL certificate at Vancouver Community College, Vancouver, Canada, and
I've had a wide variety of experiences that have taught me on the job.
How long have you been teaching English?
Almost 12 years.
Do you feel teaching English overseas is a good way to earn money?
Absolutely. I earn more in Japan than I do at home teaching ESL/EFL.
English teachers are still paid a premium in Japan.
Can you give some advice to someone thinking about living and
teaching English abroad?
Before you travel to another country to teach, take a short course in
the language, find a language exchange partner from the destination
country your own city (check colleges and universities in your area),
get at TESOL certificate (as short as four weeks) and research the place
you want to go.
Can you describe what's it like living and working in country you're
in?
I work in a very challenging workplace where my knowledge of English,
teaching method and English literature and composition skills is valued
and I'm frequently consulted. Outside of work, I have a smaller social
life than I did back home, but I've met some wonderful local and
foreign people who I consider dear friends. I also study Japan's
cultural pursuits - kimono wearing, tea ceremony, martial arts and
historical recreation events.
Do you have any warnings for people considering teaching English
overseas?
Don't send documents. Ever. Send copies. Put your foot down when you
need to. Don't allow people to bully you into nonsensical contracts. Do
your homework about the real cost of living and accommodations before
you accept any contracts for remuneration or apartments..
If you could do it over again, what would you do differently?
I would go back and do a bachelor of education so that I could teach in
international schools. Teaching regular day school is really intriguing
me. I wish I had worked harder on Japanese language study when I was a
student in university. Today, I'm conversant but not fluent.
Is there a way for someone to contact you for more information?
Elizabeth Jane Scally
Tokyo, Japan
lizscally@warpmail.net
www.teaching-in-japan.com
This site sells a downloadable e-book on teaching in Japan and is well
worth the $27.00 price tag.
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