In-company teachers

Teaching Capsules – Practical tips for in-company teachers

·         Adults seek learning a language to be able cope with a change they are undergoing or is going  to come.

·         Learning is a means to an end. Results are expected to take place quickly.

·         As the end means  to be able to perform a certain action with the language, the best way to plan a course is base it  on “functions”(what he/she will be able to do with the language).

·         Different ranks should not be placed together; generally the Manager finds it uncomfortable to undergo trial- and- error ventures in front of his subordinates.

·         Being punctual is crucial. Not only to start the lesson but to finish it as well.

·         The teacher should be ready to accept different viewpoints and be able to establish the connection between them.

·         In-company pupils take their lesson as a break from their work, the activities should be varied and short. Case studies and role playing are advisable, though the  former are better for intermediate or higher levels. Role playing suits all levels .

·         He room should be comfortable and if possible isolated from interruptions ( mobile phones are attention enemies).

·         Adults have the tendency of challenging methods and plans.The key to the teacher is “control”; it is her/him who has to decide what is to be done. Being polite but firm.

·         Homework should be avoided or , at least , voluntarily done.

·         Assessment exercises are useful to help learners see how much they have improved.