Most teachers just don't care!

Postbox letter from Jim

In my opinion 80% of teachers don't care and never will. Paying them more than 35K per month is just money in the bin. 10% care somewhat and 10% take it on as a career and profession.

Teaching hours and how they affect performance

What is the right number of hours for a teacher?

I read stories of some teachers working near 12-hour days constantly and that can’t be good for you. Some people thrive on that kind of pressure but I’d say it’s not the norm.

Age - the TEFL killer disease sweeping Thailand

I'm confused as to the type of teacher that schools want.

Perhaps it’s not a teacher that schools are looking for, but clowns masquerading as entertainers? Any school choosing a 22-year old party animal will produce disappointed.

Are TEFL teachers unambitious?

What can you do about it if you feel you're stuck in a 'teaching rut'?

So many people complain about conditions, wages and opportunities but do nothing to address these things. Some TEFL teachers seem to think this isn’t an industry or a “real” job so other aspects such as annual reviews and training aren’t relevant.

A short-lived teaching career?

I'm not sure whether Thailand isn't right for me or I'm not right for Thailand.

In spite of the draconian disciplinary measures, the students are basically normal, mostly happy, playful, loving children, who are extremely well behaved, and attentive to my classroom instructions - when the Thai teachers and assistants are present.

The dreaded teacher burnout

How is it caused and how can you avoid it?

"I'm a new teacher about to start work in Thailand and this will be my first full-time teaching gig. I often see more experienced teachers refer to 'teacher burnout'. Just out of interest, what are some of the things that contribute to such a condition?

The importance of a syllabus to aid lesson planning

No experience, no certification, no degree? English teachers required?

Not being prepared remains a major contributing factor to beginner teacher burn-out with pressure and stress, therefore and with tongue in cheek, let's collectively dip our proverbial toes into the enticing newbie paddling pool of TEFL.

Powerball TEFL

Sometimes we have to do what is ridiculous

As I lament the last 20 years of my life in and out of the TEFL industry, I can't help but wonder how I haven't completely lost my mind. Have things in the Powerball TEFL industry changed over the last 15-20 years? It depends on who you ask, who you believe, and what you believe, or choose to believe.