This is (largely) an AI-generated summary of the live session!
Language Training in the Age of COVID-19
Clare and Teresa discussed the changing landscape of language training, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Clare shared her observations that trainees are now coming from diverse locations such as the States, Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia and South Africa, which has expanded her perspective. She also noted that the training has become more focused on online teaching, which has opened up new opportunities. However, she emphasized the need to adapt to the changing demands of students, who are no longer interested in traditional grammar lessons, but rather prefer more conversational, practical English.
Teresa agreed with Clare’s points and also noted that many teachers are going on to work on teaching platforms, like Preply or Cambly, or are delivering one-to-one lessons online. Although there is an element of one-to-one teaching on the Trinity CertTESOL course, the bulk of teaching practice is done with small groups.
Clare also noted that some UK-based trainees are looking to work as teaching assistants in EAL roles. This is another area which isn’t currently covered on pre-service qualifications.
Discussing Trainees’ Backgrounds and Challenges
Clare and Teresa discussed their experiences with training courses and the trainees they have worked with. Clare shared her insights on the context and challenges of working with trainees from various backgrounds, including those from private language schools and others working in mainstream high schools. They discussed the benefits of understanding the trainees’ contexts and how it can help in supporting them. Clare also mentioned the importance of not limiting the teaching context to just the local area, as it can provide an advantage in preparing trainee teachers for a wider range of contexts. Teresa shared her experiences with online teaching and multilingual learners, highlighting that this is another way pre-service courses have changed for her in the move online.
Discussing ELT Training and Career Advancement
Clare and Teresa discussed the evolving market’s impact on the training process. They shared their observations on the challenges trainees face in mastering new grammar and terminology, and how this can contribute to career advancement. They also noted a shift in trainee attitudes, with many now viewing ELT as a career rather than a means to an end. The conversation also touched on the complexities of the training journey, from application to graduation, and the need to foster a positive learning environment.
Improving Reflection in Training Courses
Teresa and Clare discussed the importance of reflection in training, noting that it is often overlooked or assumed to be a given. They agreed that trainees need to be more aware of it and encouraged to engage in it. Teresa suggested that the reflection tasks should be developed more throughout the training course to help trainees understand and apply the concept. Clare agreed, pointing out that many trainees currently only focus on meeting specific criteria and do not assess their own development areas. They concluded that there were several areas where trainees could improve their reflection skills.
Reflection questions
- What do you feel are the benefits and drawbacks for trainee teachers to work with monolingual learners?
- What other aspects of the reality of ELT contexts do you feel are missing on pre-service qualifications?
- Have you noticed a shift in the trainees on pre-service qualifications?
