Teachers shouldn't be involved in road duties
Postbox letter from Ricardo
One major concern is why foreign teachers are often tasked with escorting students across streets.
I actually don't mind gate duty
A chance to connect with both parents and students.
Initially, when I was assigned gate duty a couple of years ago, I felt apprehensive. It was unfamiliar territory, as in my home country, such formal greetings weren't customary. Greetings between students and teachers happened naturally.
Thoughts on gate duty
Postbox letter from Stuart
I think it's reasonable to ask foreign teachers to participate in something like this once a week as long as it's included in contact time or their contracted times.
“I don’t like Teacher Nick.”
Is it important for a teacher to be liked by the students?
The argument goes that happy students learn better, are more willing to buy into a lesson, and feel better about being in class. Being liked is important!
The good, the bad and the virtuous!
By just being here, you are making the education system better.
I've isolated the most compelling reasons why people teach long-term in Thailand and there are four of them as far as I can see... we like doing it, we can do it, we get paid for doing it, and 'purpose'.
Is taking student photos a wise idea?
Think carefully if it's just to boost your social media presence
I’ve seen so many photos and videos online where foreign teachers have captured moments with their Thai students. The issue I have is whether this interferes with child safety and other protection issues.
My thoughts on gate duty
It’s not a punishment. It’s not going to kill you.
Thai students actually really appreciate having foreigners there doing something such as gate duty. Moaning about it makes you look a bit pathetic.
Are TEFL teachers unambitious?
What can you do about it if you feel you're stuck in a 'teaching rut'?
So many people complain about conditions, wages and opportunities but do nothing to address these things. Some TEFL teachers seem to think this isn’t an industry or a “real” job so other aspects such as annual reviews and training aren’t relevant.
