English as a Second Language speakers-- what qualities do you look for in an ESL teacher?
I teach ESL to adults. Most students are very kind and respectful, but some do not like following basic rules, like turning off their cell phones. My philosophy of teaching is that I am there to help students, not only to learn the language, but the culture, as well. I help my students with outside issues, such as work questions and paperwork translations. If you are a student who has completed a number of years of ESL, or a teacher, please give me your thoughts. Thank you.
As with the previous answer ESL is all about patience. I find that students really appreciate teachers who are compassionate and who don't treat them like idiots. I try and make my lessons as relevant to the students as possible, so that they can actually go out and use the language. Sometimes, I think we get too caught up in the mechanics of it all and making sure your focus is (for the most part) on the students, not the lesson plan.
Explaining Abstract Ideas: Philosophy (NA2 2009 EOI Getafe)
