21 November, 2007
My class is very time consuming. I am thankful for the knowledgeable and experienced teaching staff; they make the 10hr days fly by…
Honestly, things are moving fast, my first class lesson is tonight and I am teaching simple vocabulary of “travel” to a beginner class. The students are easy to feel comfortable with and they create an eclectic classroom. Some are from Albania, some from Russia, some speak four languages, and some speak in hand gestures. They are old, young, doctors, professors, fish-choppers, and cobblers. It is really eye opening and encouraging that I, a humble Indiana University graduate, am able to teach practical, desirable and profitable skills. It feels good to have a job in my near future with visible and immediate outcome.
Language class here is different in many ways from classes I have taken in The States, but the most interesting difference to me is the real need for the skills and the motivation for learning that the economic environment provides. When I took language in high-school and college I saw no end other than a grade. Here is it a clear status symbol, a tool for increased commercial success especially during the tourist season, and in many ways, a ticket off the island.
After only two weeks, I am beginning to see the true value of my birthright. I have a key to the world, and via lingua, I’m going to use it.
Keeping you posted,
Thomas
27 November 27, 2007
Firstly, I hope I do not confuse anyone with the backlogged posts, my internet access and free time do not often sync up. At this point I have taught four classes and am shaping lesson plans. This job is fun! I get to act like a goof, make puzzles, and get information about the local culture. So far, I have had students who really value any extra time and effort I choose to spend on their education. I think it makes a huge difference that everyone is here voluntarily after their normal work day.
Yasu.
