EFL Teaching Gaps in Thailand

EFL TEACHING GAPS IN THAILAND

(Written by teacher PJ and originally posted on Ajarn.com July 24th 2012. Edited and reposted by TEFLChiangmai.com)

As I go through a typical day, one nagging question keeps popping up in the back of my head; Why can't Thai people speak English?

Well that's a dumb question, right? I can already hear some of the answers now. "They're Thai. They speak Thai. We're in Thailand. Duh" Alright let me rephrase the question then. Considering that English has been the international language of tourism and commerce for I don't know how many decades now, and there are I don't know how many thousands of English teachers all over the country, why is the general level of English so poor? Why can't even young, supposedly educated college students speak English? Why can't the Pratom (primary) teachers at my school, who are supposed to teach every subject, including English, speak English? Ok two of them can, but most can't, so we have a situation here where Thai English teachers can't speak English.

The odd thing about it is that they are required to be in my class to help control the students and presumably to learn English as well, which I am thankful for. But when the class is going smoothly and I don't really need any help, the Thai teacher often tunes out my lesson, opting instead to open up his or her laptop and squeeze in a couple games of solitare or log in to Facebook or whatever it is they do. Not only does this give students the message that it's acceptable to ignore my lesson, but aren't the Thai teachers shooting themselves in the foot when they waste a great opportunity to learn English from a native speaker along with their students???!!!

Recently the director of my school called a meeting with all the foreign teachers. The director (who doesn't speak English) was ranting and raving (in PasaThai) about how Thailand is trying to catch up to ASEAN standards of English proficiency. He instructed all the Thai teachers that they need to use and teach English vocabulary words in all the subjects. At this point I must borrow the phrase I have seen in other articles on this site and say that it would be comical if it weren't so tragic.

I'm really not trying to put down my school, the teachers, or Thai people in general. Some of the teachers at my school have been teaching for over 30 years, which means they began their careers before I was born. I realize that learning English is very difficult and takes a great deal of effort. In some ways it may be "too late" for some of the older teachers and older Thai people in general. But like I said, most high school and college students don't even speak English.

Let's look at some of the numbers for a typical 16 year old high school student. Let's say that "Ploy" is a 16-year old girl who goes to ABC Government School in XYZ city. She started English classes about 10 years ago in Pratom 1. For the past 10 years she has been going to English class twice a week for 50 to 60 minutes each class. She also has English based instrucition in class twice a week with her Thai teachers, as her math and science classes are taught by Filipino teachers with English being the language of instruction.

Doing the math on that gives you the following stats - Ploy has had about 700 hours of dedicated English conversation class over the past 10 years. She's had another 700 hours of English grammar taught by the Thai teacher, and another 700 hours of science and math classes taught by Filipino teachers. So over the last decade, Ploy has had a grand total of 2100 hours of classes where English has either been taught directly or at least used as the main language of instruction.

So of course Ploy can speak English, right? Maybe, maybe not. If Ploy is a good student, and she puts in the effort to learn, and she has had even halfway decent teachers, she probably can speak English. But if she doesn't see the need to learn, isn't motivated, and she has had mediocre teachers, she has probably been tuning out of English class for the past ten years the same way her Pratom homeroom teachers have been doing for the past thirty.

So how can we fix this problem? Get them some Native English speakers (or teachers fluent to a native ability level) who care enough to make it understandable and have decent training  to work with! I don't have all the answers, but as ASEAN becomes stronger and more unified, and as the world in general becomes more of a tight-knit community Thailand will soon see they are lagging far behind other countries where many if not most of the citizens actually speak their second language.

Whatever methods or plans of action educator decides to take, in general, the more 

advanced certifications a TEFL or TESOL Teacher holds, the more opportunity they possess in terms of their skill level, marketability and increased number of employment options.

For a limited time, Paradise TEFL Certification Program offers these advanced certifications such as TOEFL, IELTS, and TEYL at the SAME PRICE as the basic TEFL/TESOL certification!

The advanced course provides additional English Language teaching certifications and is offered in tandem with our site courses in and Chiang Mai Thailand, and Mexico as well as a special summer course in Portland, Oregon or as a complete series of online modules some with a virtual practice teaching option. In order to become a TEFL Trainer, you should have already completed a TEFL, TESOL or CELTA course first in order to be eligible and teaching experience is necessary. (Our Basic TEFL on-site program provides 2 to 3 weeks of hands on observed teaching practice to help our teachers to effectively develop their skills).

All courses are fully accredited and you will receive a certificate of completion, which is internationally recognized and accepted when you graduate from the course. Many of those who already have experience as TEFL instructors are finding that becoming a certified TEFL trainer is another opportunity and feather in their cap in terms of meeting the demand of TEFL instructors (who are leaving their home countries and working abroad) by teaching others how to teach TEFL effectively.

Graduates with these additional certifications have the advantage of substantially increasing their marketability and employment status. Improve your chances of getting a good job with a higher level of pay by enrolling today!

 

 

See the full gallery on Posterous

You're Never Too Old to Learn

YOU ARE NEVER TOO OLD TO LEARN-

HOW TO TEACH ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE (TEFL)

 

Many of those who attend TEFL teacher training programs, both overseas and domestically, are recent college graduates who are eager to gain a bigger perspective of the world before the settle into a long term career path, who hope to travel and to still be able to earn some money in the process.

 

At the same time, many men and women who are "working veterans" in a field or who have held a specific position for a number of years and are looking to change occupations (due to aging bodies, limited upward mobility or just want a change of pace) are considering teaching English as a new career. Similarly, those who have had diverse work experience also often enroll in TEFL certification as a way to break up their employment routine and to gain access to a more affordable and often more sustainable as well as interesting lifestyle. 

Why not give teaching TEFL a try? At Paradise TEFL we focus on providing our soon to be teachers with small class sizes, plenty of hands on teaching opportunity to practice teach, and gear our coursework toward a truly practical approach, unlike some of the bigger more expensive courses which claim they are more professional and their certificates are more desirable. But in reality, employers are looking for someone who can perform well, not spout off educational theory.

 

Whatever methods or plans of action educator decides to take, in general, the more advanced certifications a TEFL or TESOL Teacher holds, the more opportunity they possess in terms of their marketability and increased number of employment options.

For a limited time, Paradise TEFL Certification Program offers these advanced certifications such as TOEFL, IELTS, and TEYL at the SAME PRICE as the basic TEFL/TESOL certification!

Furthermore, our rates are extremely low because we are individually franchised and we don’t have the huge administrative costs of some of the institutional programs linked with some quasi-prestigious universities as part of their marketing persona. Just real certifcates for real employment recognized the world over.

The advanced course provides additional English Language teaching certifications and is offered in tandem with our site courses in and Chiang Mai Thailand, and Mexico as well as a special summer course in Portland, Oregon or as a complete series of online modules some with a virtual practice teaching option. In order to become a TEFL Trainer, you should have already completed a TEFL, TESOL or CELTA course first in order to be eligible and teaching experience is necessary. (Our Basic TEFL on-site program provides 2 to 3 weeks of hands on observed teaching practice to help our teachers to effectively develop their skills).

All courses are fully accredited and you will receive a certificate of completion, which is internationally recognized and accepted when you graduate from the course. Many of those who already have experience as TEFL instructors are finding that becoming a certified TEFL trainer is another opportunity and feather in their cap in terms of meeting the demand of TEFL instructors (who are leaving their home countries and working abroad) by teaching others how to teach TEFL effectively.

Graduates with these additional certifications have the advantage of substantially increasing their marketability and employment status. Improve your chances of getting a good job with a higher level of pay by enrolling today!

 

  

 

Income Information and Bennefit Stats Teaching English in Asia Part 3

Income Information & Benefit Statistics for Teaching English in Asia (Cambodia, China, HK, Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam & More)   English Teaching in Singapore Teaching English Jobs English teachers in Singapore can expect to find jobs throughout the year, as this is a wealthy nation with a high need for qualified native English speaking teachers. Interviews here are conducted well in advance, both over the phone and via e-mail. Instructors are responsible for airfare and housing expenses. Most teachers live in apartments recently vacated by previous teachers, and many room with coworkers. A solid hourly wage affords English teachers a comfortable lifestyle, with the possibility to save up to 500 USD per month above the cost of living. English language schools in Singapore typically offer around 20 to 25 hours of work per week, leaving plenty of time for you to take advantage of your location and explore. English teachers need to have a bachelor’s degree to teach in Singapore, and TEFL certification is required. Singapore, officially the Republic of Singapore, is an island country off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, (85 mi) north of the equator, in Southeast Asia. It is separated from Malaysia by the Straits of Johor to its north and from Indonesia's Riau Islands by the Singapore Strait to its south. Singapore is the world's fourth leading financial center and a cosmopolitan world city, playing a key role in international trade and finance. The port of Singapore is one of the five busiest ports in the world. Singapore has a long history of immigration. It has a diverse population of close to 5 million, comprised of Chinese, Malays, Indians, Asians of various descents, and Caucasians. 42% of the population in Singapore are foreigners who work and study there. Foreign workers make up 50% of the service sector. The country is the second most densely populated in the world after Monaco. A.T. Kearney named Singapore the most globalised country in the world in 2006 in its Globalization Index.   English Teaching Requirements in Singapore Education: BA/BS is required; TEFL TESOL Certification is required and students can obtain certification in any of our Paradise TEFL 4 Week or 2 Week Intensive course, or the Paradise Online course. Citizenship Requirements:  USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa. Typical hiring process: via phone in advance Average teaching hours per week: 20–25 hours of classroom plus extra prep time Type of students: Business professionals, children in public schools and private language schools Cost of living per month: 2,100–2,500 USD; 3,000–3,500 SGD Average monthly pay: 2,400–3,000 USD; 3,300–4,200 SGD   Start-up cost: 2,100–2,500 USD Potential to save or break even: Save 300 - 500 USD/month  Accommodation/housing benefits paid: no, employer will assist to find Vacation: Paid 2 weeks Flight reimbursement: No  Interesting Facts About Life in Singapore Singapore is the world’s fourth wealthiest country per capita. Singapore consists of 63 islands. Singapore boasts a very high literacy rate: according to the 2000 census, 92.5% of the country's population could read. English is 1 of 4 national languages recognized by the Singapore government; the others are Chinese (Mandarin), Tamil, and Malay. Living in Singapore Teaching English... Having risen from a backwater fishing village to become a prosperous, modern city in little more than a century, Singapore represents one of the greatest national transformations of all times. While the glossy shopping malls and towering office buildings are impressive, the defining characteristic of Singapore is its strikingly cosmopolitain culture. A true melting pot, Singapore is both financially and culturally rich. The city is home to Chinese, Malays, Indians, and Europeans, along with their languages and religions, with more than 40% of its residents holding passports from other countries. Dining on national specialties like chili crab, Hainanese chicken, and fish-head curry is considered by many to be Singapore’s national pastime, so make sure to bring your appetite as you journey to one of the most captivating countries in the world. Teaching English in Korea Teaching English in Korea The South Korean English teaching market is currently one of the largest and strongest in the world. ESL instructors can find teaching opportunities here year round, interviews are conducted in advance over the phone and via e-mail. In most cases, airfare is reimbursed, and South Korean schools typically provide free housing. A typical contract offers a free return flight and 1 month salary bonus (around $ 2,000 USD after 12 months.) A generous salary of $ 1,800 - 2,200 a month (depending on exchange rates) with only 5% taxes, enables English teachers in Korea to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle, as well as an opportunity to save up to $ 1,000 USD per month after expenses. Language schools in Korea typically require 25 to 30 hours of  teaching per week plus prep time, leaving plenty of time to travel and explore. English teachers in Korea also receive 10-20 days of paid vacation per year in addition to 15-18 national holidays.  English teachers must have a bachelor’s degree to teach English in South Korea, and TEFL TESOL certification is required. Major cities for English teaching jobs include Seoul, Busan, Incheon, Ulsan, Gwangju, Daejeon, and Daegu.  There are over 10 cities with a million people.  Seoul is one of the largest and most cosmopolitan cities in the world with approximately 25 million people and over 1,000 English language schools.  There are an estimated 25,000 English teachers in South Korea working each year and demand shows no signs of slowing.  An estimated 2,000 - 3,000 new jobs are available each month due to Korea's national stress on education for children and adults. South Korea boasts one of the top ranked educational systems in the world.  The country's massive educational investments have paid off as this relatively small nation has risen from the ranks of the Third World to become one of the largest and most technologically advanced economies in the world in just a matter of two generations. Article: Top 10 Reasons to Teach English in Seoul, South Korea  CNN News Article: 50 reasons Why Seoul is the World's Greatest City   Requirements to teach English in Korea Education: BA/BS is required; TEFL TESOL Certification is required and students can obtain certification in any of our Paradise TEFL 4 week certification, 2 Week Intensive or by taking the Online TEFL Class.  Citizenship Requirements:  USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Austalia, New Zealand, South Africa, South Korean Peak hiring months: year-round Types of jobs: English language schools, children and adults.  Public school children. Typical hiring process: phone/e-mail in advance Average teaching hours per week: 25–30 hours of classroom plus extra prep time Types of students: business professionals, children Cost of living per month: 700–1,000 USD plus housing; 800,000–1.2 million KRW Average monthly pay: 1,600–2,000 USD plus housing; 1.8–2.4 million KRW Start-up cost: 700–1,000 USD Potential to save:  can save up to 1,000 USD/month Accommodation/housing benefits paid: yes, paid or subsidized.  Typically 1 month bonus pay at end of 12 month contract Medical Insurance - co pay, national health insurance Vacation - paid 2 weeks & sick days Flight reimbursement: yes - departing, paid in advance for return flight at end of 12 month contract. Interesting Facts About Life in South Korea South Korea—along with Hong Kong, Singapore, and Tawain—is one of the Four Asia Tigers, known for their rapid economic growth over the past three decades. South Korea was the first country in the world to introduce high-speed fiber-optic broadband internet into every primary and secondary school. The martial art of Tae Kwon Do originated in South Korea. Baseball was introduced to South Korea more than 100 years ago, it has since become the country’s most popular sport.  Teaching English in Korea... Having recently surpassed Japan as the most technologically advanced country in the world, South Korea manages to lead the race toward the future while keeping a firm grasp on its storied past. While in South Korea, take in its amazing cuisine, including the country’s world-famous barbecue, gogi gui, and kimchi, a spicy, cabbage dish that some consider one of the healthiest foods in the world. Other attractions include Korea’s extensive coastline and the historic and cultural treasures of cities such as Busan and Seoul. If you like getting dirty, take part in the Boryeong Mud Festival, which attracts more than 2 million visitors per year. English Teaching in Taiwan Teaching English Jobs Asia's English teaching market is one of the largest in the world, and Taiwan is one of the oldest and most established markets among Asian nations. English teachers in Taiwan can expect to find jobs available year round. Interviews are conducted well in advance, both over the phone and via e-mail. Instructors are responsible for airfare and housing expenses. Most teachers live in apartments recently vacated by previous teachers, and many room with coworkers.  Teaching positions are with either children or adults, though the market for teaching children is particularly outstanding. A generous salary affords English teachers a comfortable lifestyle, with the possibility to save up to 600 USD per month. Schools typically offer 20 to 25 hours of work per week, leaving teachers plenty of time to travel and explore while they are employed. English teachers need an AA or bachelor’s degree to teach in Taiwan, and TEFL certification is required. Most English teaching jobs are found in the major cities of Taipei, Kaohsiung, Taichung, Taoyuan, and Tainan.   English Teaching Requirements in Taiwan Education: AA  BA/BS is required; TEFL TESOL Certification is required and students can obtain certification in any of our Paradise TEFL 4 Week Certification, 2 Week Intensive  or by taking the Online TEFL Class.  Citizenship Requirements:  USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa. Typical hiring process: phone/e-mail in advance Average teaching hours per week: 20–25 hours of classroom plus extra prep time Types of students: business professionals, children in public schools and private language schools Cost of living per month: 1,000–1,400 USD; 32,000–46,000 TWD Average monthly pay:  1,400–2,100 USD; 46,000–68,000 TWD Start-up cost: 1,000–1,400 USD Potential to save or break even: save 500-600 USD/month Accommodation/housing benefits paid: no, will assist in finding housing Medical Insurance - co pay, national health insurance Vacation - paid 2 weeks & sick days Flight reimbursement: Sometimes. Interesting Facts About Life in Taiwan Taiwan is also known as Formosa, which comes from the Portuguese for “beautiful island.” Because the shape of Taiwan resembles a sweet potato, many Taiwanese refer to themselves as “children of the sweet potato.” Baseball is Taiwan’s national sport. The rapid economic and industrial growth that occured during the late 20th century is known as the "Taiwan Miracle." A number of internationally-popular technologies are based out of Taiwan, Garmin, Giant Bicycles, Acer, and HTC for example. Living in Taiwan Teaching English... Found off the southeast coast of mainland China, Taiwan is the perfect destination for those seeking remote island beauty mixed with a taste of modern Asia. Known for its ancient temples as well as it's cutting edge technology, Taiwan is quickly becoming the hotspot of East Asia. Teaching English in Thailand Teaching English Jobs English teachers can find jobs year round in Thailand, as it is an enormous and still growing market for English instruction.  Jobs are found primarily in private language schools for both children and adults. Within recent years, however, the demand in Thailand's public school system for trained English language teachers has expanded considerably.  While most interviews are done in person, some are completed in advance over the phone and via e-mail. English instructors in Thailand are responsible for airfare and housing expenses. Most teachers live in apartments recently vacated by previous teachers, and many room with coworkers.  Contracts typically last 12 months with jobs available to teach business professionals as well as children. A generous salary affords English teachers the opportunity to live a comfortable lifestyle, while saving 250–300 USD per month. The Thai Baht is valued at about one third of the US Dollar- foreigners have considerable purchasing power while in the country.  English language schools in Thailand offer approximately 20 to 25 hours of work per week, allowing for plenty of time to travel and explore. English teachers do not need to have a bachelor’s degree to teach in Thailand, although it is preferred. TEFL certification is required. The major cities for English teaching jobs are Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Phuket. Requirements to Teach English in Thailand Education: BA/BS is prefered but not required; TEFL TESOL Certification is required and students can obtain certification in our  any of our TEFLChiang Mai Course or by taking the TEFL Online Class. Citizenship Requirements:  USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Austal

Income Information and Benefit Stats Teaching English in Asia Part 2

 

Jobs for English teachers in Indonesia

With a population of approximately 238 million people spread over 17,508 islands along the equator, Indonesia is the world's fourth most populous country and represents a fast-growing market for English teachers. Those looking to teach English in Indonesia will encounter an entrancing combination of lush, volcanic landscapes; beautiful beaches and thousands of years of history and culture. The country is also known for the warm hospitality of its people, most of whom are Muslim.

English teachers in Indonesia can find teaching jobs year round. Although most interviews are conducted in advance over the phone and via e-mail, some schools prefer to interview in person. Instructors are typically responsible for their own airfare and housing expense, though some schools do provide assistance in these areas. Most live in apartments recently vacated by previous teachers, and many room with coworkers.

A generous salary affords English teachers the opportunity to live a comfortable lifestyle, while saving 250–300 USD per month. Schools offer approximately 20 to 25 hours of work per week, leaving plenty of time to travel and explore Indonesia’s exquisite beauty and vibrant, bustling cities. Those without a bachelor’s degree can find limited opportunities to teach in Indonesia, but a four-year degree is preferred. TEFL certification is required. Most of those teaching English in Indonesia will find jobs in the major cities of Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Bandung, and Surabaya. There are teaching opportunities on the island of Bali; however, its popularity means the local job market is more competitive.

Requirements to teach English in Indonesia

• Education: BA/BS is required to teach English in Indonesia; TEFL TESOL Certification is required and students can obtain certification in any of our Paradise TEFL 4 Week certification, 2 Week Intensive  or by taking the Online TEFL class.
• Citizenship Requirements:  USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa.

• Typical hiring process: via phone in advance,in-person interview

• Average teaching hours per week: 20 –25 hours of classroom plus extra prep time
• Type s of students: Business professionals, children in public schools and private language schools
• Cost of living per month: 600–1,000 USD; 6–9 million IDR
• Average monthl y pay: 600–1,000 USD
• Start-up cost: 2,100–2,500 USD
• Potential to sa ve or break even: save 250–300 USD/month 

• Accommodation/housing benefits paid: no, employer will assist to find
• Vacation - Paid 2 weeks
• Flight reimbursement: rarely.

 

Interesting Facts About Life in Indonesia

• With a population of more than 220 million, Indonesia is the world’s fourth most populous country and the most populous Islamic country.
• It would take you more than 46 years to visit each of Indonesia’s 17,000 islands if you traveled to an island per day.
• Indonesia has 129 active volcanoes.
• Indonesia has the largest economy in Southeast Asia.

Life as an English teacher in Indonesia

This tropical paradise offers a vast array of natural and man-made treasures, from the sublime beauty of Bali to the energetic streets of Jakarta. Lush, mountainous interiors and endless miles of coastline make Indonesia an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, offering innumerable opportunities for hiking, trekking, climbing, scuba diving, fishing, and surfing. The scent of fragrant curries, meat skewers, and grilled vegetables is carried through the streets of small villages and large cities alike. More than anything else, those who choose to live and travel in this diverse, beautiful country will be struck by the warm hospitality of its people, who always take time to share refreshments or a meal with visitors from afar.

 Teaching English in Japan

The Asian market is one of the largest in the world for English teachers, and Japan has one of the longest traditions of employing English instructors. The Japanese have mandated that English be taught in all of their public schools, beginning at age 5 and lasting through the completion of high school. This broad base of child learners has opened a large market for teaching English in Japan. Adults are taking English language classes in the millions as well, and it often seems that language schools on every corner of a city block much like Starbucks coffee shops here in the US.

English teachers can find jobs year round, and in-person interviews are conducted 3 to 6 months in advance throughout the U.S., U.K., and Canada. Instructors are usually responsible for airfare and housing costs, although schools do assist in finding housing and sometimes provide accommodations. Most teachers live in apartments recently vacated by previous teachers, and many room with coworkers.

A solid hourly wage allows English teachers to live a comfortable lifestyle, while saving up to 800 USD per month. Schools typically offer 20 to 25 hours of work per week, leaving plenty of time to travel and explore. English teachers need a bachelor’s degree, and TEFL certification is required. Major cities for English teaching jobs include Tokyo, Fukuoka, Kobe, Kyoto, and Osaka.

Requirements to Teach English in Japan

• Education: BA/BS is required; TEFL TESOL Certification is required and students can obtain certification in any of our Paradise TEFL 4 Week or Two week certification or by taking the Paradise TEFL Online Class. 
• Citizenship Requirements:  USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, others with fluent speaking ability and 12 years education in a native English speaking country

• Typical hiring process: Face to face interviews in U.S., Canada, or U.K. at least 3–6 months in advance
• Average teaching hours per week: 20–25 hours of classroom plus extra prep time
• Types of students: business professionals, children in public schools and private language schools
• Cost of living per month: 1,800–2,800 USD; 150,000–200,000 JPY
• Average monthly pay: 2,500–2,800 USD; 250,000–280,000 JPY
• Start-up cost: 2,600–4,200 USD
• Potential to save or break even: save 600–800 USD/month

• Accommodation/housing benefits paid: yes some, paid or subsidized depending on school or program.
• Medical Insurance - co-pay, national health insurance
• Vacation - paid 2 weeks, national holidays & sick days
• Flight reimbursement: some

 

 

Interesting Facts About Japan

• Japan has the third-largest economy in the world.
• Tokyo is the largest metropolitan area in the world, with more than 30 million residents.
• Japan is the only Asian country in the G8.
• 70% to 80% of Japan is forested, mountainous, and unsuitable for residential or industrial use, resulting in heavily populated urban areas like Tokyo.
• Japan has one of the highest life expectancy rates in the world, at well over 80 years of age.

Living in Japan Teaching English...

From ancient temples and elaborately dressed geishas to lightning-fast bullet trains and toy robots, Japan is a country of contrasts.  On any given day, you can visit one of the estimated 100,000 Shinto shrines, sample some of the world's freshest seafood, test out the newest Sony gadget, or catch a magnificent sunrise over the vast Pacific Ocean. Other highlights include hiking the slopes of Mount Fuji, drinking sake in a historic brewery, and discovering the unique charm of ancient cities like Kyoto and Osaka.

 

Teaching English Jobs in Malaysia

English teachers in Malaysia can expect to find jobs year round, as this is a very large and lucrative ESL job market.  Most English teaching job interviews are conducted in advance over the phone and via e-mail for Malaysia. English teachers are responsible for airfare and housing expenses. Most teachers live in apartments recently vacated by previous teachers, and many room with coworkers.

Malaysia is a relatively open state-oriented and newly industrialized market economy.  In 2007, the economy of Malaysia was the 3rd largest in Southeast Asia, and 29th largest economy in the world by purchasing power parity with a growth rate of 5% to 7% since 2007.

Malaysia is a founding member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Organization of the Islamic Conference. The country participates in many international organizations such as the United Nations, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, the Developing 8 Countries and the Non-Aligned Movement. As a former British colony, it is also a member of the Commonwealth of Nations.

Malaysia is a federal constitutional monarchy situated in Southeast Asia. It is separated by the South China Sea into two regions, Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo (known as West and East Malaysia respectively).  Land borders are shared with Thailand, Indonesia, Brunei, and the Philippines. Peninsular Malaysia is connected to Singapore via a causeway and a bridge. The capital city is Kuala Lumpur, while Putrajaya is the seat of the federal government. The population as of 2009 stood at over 28 million.

The Malaysian constitution guarantees it's citizens freedom of religion, although Islam is the largest and official religion. Approximately 60.4% of the population practiced Islam; 19.2% Buddhism; 9.1% Christianity; 6.3% Hinduism; and 2.6% practice Confucianism, Taoism and other traditional Chinese religions.

The official language of Malaysia is known as Bahasa Malaysia, a standardized form of the Malay language.  English was for a protracted period the de facto administrative language, though Malay became predominant after 1969. English remains an active second language in many areas of Malaysian society, serving as the medium of instruction for Maths and Sciences in all public schools. If students wish to advance in their studies, a knowledge of English is crucial. Malaysian English, also known as Malaysian Standard English (MySE), is a form of English derived from British English, although there is little official use of the term, except with relation to education.

A generous salary allows English teachers in Malaysia to live a comfortable lifestyle, while saving 300–600 USD per month. Schools typically offer 20 to 25 hours of work per week, leaving plenty of time to travel and explore. English teachers do not need a bachelor’s degree to teach in Malaysia, although it is preferred by most schools and language institutes. TEFL certification is required. Most teaching jobs are concentrated in Kuala Lumpur and other major cities.

English Teaching Requirements in Malaysia

• Education: BA/BS required; TEFL TESOL Certification is required and students can obtain certification in any of our Paradise TEFL 4 Week or 2 Week Intensive course or by taking the Pardise Online course. 
• Citizenship Requirememts:  USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa.

• Typical hiring process: via phone in advance
• Average teaching hours per week: 20–25 hours of classroom plus extra prep time
• Type s of students: Business professionals, children in public schools and private language schools
• Cost of living per month: 900–1,800 USD; 3,000–6,000 MRY
• Average monthly pay: 900–1,800 USD
• Start-up cost: 2,100–2,500 USD
• Potential to sa ve or break even: save 300–600 USD/month 

• Accommodation/housing benefits paid: no, employer will assist to find
• Vacation - Paid 2 weeks
• Flight reimbursement: No.

 

Interesting Facts About Life in Malaysia

• Malaysia has the second highest GDP in Southeast Asia, behind Singapore.
• Though it is a multi-religious society, Islam is the official religion of Malaysia.
• The Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur are the tallest twin buildings in the world.
• Almost 60% of Malaysia is forested.

Living in Malaysia Teaching English...

Spanning the South China Sea, from the Malay Peninsula to the legendary island of Borneo, Malaysia reflects the many faces of Asia. Take a stroll through the old streets of Kuala Lumpur, Penang, or Malacca, and observe firsthand how centuries of trading among Malay, Arabian, Indian, Chinese, and Dutch seafarers played a part in creating the multi-faceted Malaysia of today. Here you will encounter an enticing blend of cultures, religions, and cuisines. Within several city blocks, you can visit temples, pagodas, churches, and mosques before deciding whether you wish to dine on world-class Chinese, Indian, or Malaysian fare. Perhaps you'd rather get away from it all and venture into the Malay hinterland. Pristine beaches, thick jungles, and age-old villages fill the countryside, where the way of life has gone unchanged for centuries.