Laura Thomas' blog on Ajarn.com
The danger of thinking your way is the only way
For new teachers especially, it's an easy trap to fall into.
In teaching, and especially in Thailand, humility beats stubbornness every time. Thai classrooms often value harmony and saving face over strict rule enforcement.
Two teachers, two outcomes
Why one stayed and one didn't
Both women arrived in Thailand around the same time. Both were qualified, motivated, and excited to teach. On paper, there was no reason why one would succeed and the other would struggle.
A foreign woman in the Thai workplace
If you’re a woman thinking of working in Thailand, don’t worry if things feel unfamiliar at first.
Over time, I noticed that the Thai teachers appreciated when I asked questions respectfully and showed that I wanted to learn, not just change everything.
How many hours a day should you be teaching?
A teacher in Thailand's take on things
From my experience, the magic number is no more than four teaching hours a day. That’s the sweet spot. Enough to earn your keep and still have the energy to enjoy your life outside the classroom.
Why teacher observations shouldn't be feared
Don't dread observations, embrace them!
The mere thought of a supervisor sitting at the back of the classroom, clipboard in hand, can send shivers down any teacher’s spine. But take a step back and consider what observations are all about.
Balancing teaching with travel opportunities
The struggle to find time to explore
By the time the weekend arrives, the thought of packing a bag and setting off on a trip can seem exhausting. Instead, many teachers opt to rest, catch up on errands, or simply unwind at home.
Teaching English really ain't that easy
You have to earn the right to be a decent teacher
I've seen online comments from well-meaning individuals who want to "make a difference." Unfortunately, their primary focus tends to be on how teaching abroad will change their own lives, without considering the impact they might have on their students.
I actually don't mind gate duty
A chance to connect with both parents and students.
Initially, when I was assigned gate duty a couple of years ago, I felt apprehensive. It was unfamiliar territory, as in my home country, such formal greetings weren't customary. Greetings between students and teachers happened naturally.
Teaching English in Thailand - the upsides and the downsides
Teaching English abroad is a journey filled with trade-offs, each offering its own set of adventures and challenges.
If the idea of jet-setting as an English teacher is tickling your fancy, let's dive deeper into the pros and cons. Here's a more detailed and friendly look at the wonderful world of teaching English in Thailand.
