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TEFL Cranford New Mexico



Check out Tesolcourse.com about TEFL Cranford New Mexico and apply today to be certified to teach English abroad.

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This is how our TEFL graduates feel they have gained from their course, and how they plan to put into action what they learned:

said:
For teachers of any kind, self-confidence is important. It doesn't matter how well versed you are in your subject, if you cannot deliver it in a confident way then it will never have the desired effect on your students. With tefl teachers however, the need for confidence is more than important, it is essential. When teaching an esl class you are trying to make yourself understood on two levels; Firstly, as with any teacher, you are teaching a syllabus and therefore your role is to enable your students to assimilate the content of said syllabus and progress through the course. Secondly, you are trying to achieve this whilst working within the confines of a language barrier. Obviously this language barrier is a positive thing and is crucial to the effectiveness of the language learning process, but it can also make it more difficult for students to understand instructions and explanations. The fact that tefl teaching is implemented by means of immersion means that a good teacher must be able to express themselves clearly, concisely and confidently, using both their voice and body language. I can imagine that I am likely to be nervous and possibly suffer some kind of crisis of confidence just before teaching my first class, which is why I decided to write on this topic. I believe that there are steps that can be taken and skills that can be learned which are likely to improve confidence, and by default, make better teachers. A common worry of soon-to-be tefl teachers is ‘what if they ask me something that I don't know?' which is a perfectly reasonable concern. Though it is important to remember that no one knows everything and it's better to tell a student that you would like to double check something than to misinform them. However, in my opinion, nothing breeds confidence like being as well-informed as possible before putting yourself into a position of authority. Plus, the aforementioned situation is much less likely to shake your confidence if it is a rare incident amidst a sea of otherwise perfect lessons! So, the first and foremost way that teachers can increase their confidence in the classroom is to know their subject. Working through a reputable tefl course is an excellent start, though it couldn't hurt to keep reading and practicing after you've completed your course. Another practical way that teachers can improve their confidence levels from the outset is to be prepared. There is nothing worse than being nervous or under pressure and struggling to get yourself organised whilst people are watching. Starting out a lesson in this way is bound to knock anyone's confidence. Sticking to a lesson plan is essential, as is assessing and gathering what materials, equipment or resources you may need beforehand. In my opinion, a teacher who begins their classes well-versed in their content and with all of their materials to hand will always be more confident that an unprepared teacher. Though these practical aspects are important, often the source of a teacher's lack of confidence is psychological. This is where it helps to put yourself in your students' shoes. What qualities would you look for in a teacher? In reality, most students are unlikely to have unrealistic expectations. They want someone that they can relate to, who is knowledgeable, clear, patient and approachable. They are not expecting a public speaker, a politician or a rocket scientist, most likely a lot of your students are going to be a lot like you, your friends or your family. Therefore, I would say that possibly the best way that any teacher could increase their confidence in the classroom is to relax and be personable. The more that you are able to be yourself in front of your class, the more confidence you will build. “Confidence is contagious. So is lack of confidence.” – Vince Lombardi The key to becoming a confident teacher is taking those first small steps. Then once you begin to come into your own you will see results, and there is nothing like positive feedback and progress to build yet more confidence! When you begin to see students enjoying activities, showing comprehension and making progress, your confidence as a teacher is sure to come on leaps and bounds. The most important thing to remember is that this is not going to happen the second that you step into the classroom, it takes time, but once you start to build confidence, it is contagious and you will see your students' confidence growing too. So begin by doing the small things, like being prepared, knowing your subject and being yourself, then the rest will come naturally.


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