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February 18, 2012
You Expect A Master Teacher To Be Young?
One of the frustrations common among many teachers is, just when they feel that they have become masters of their craft...
...those who make hiring decisions have made what seems to be arbitrary age distinctions when it comes to hiring teachers.
Yes, many schools, and certainly students automatically think of a younger person when they imagine their “ideal” teacher. It’s the job of an older applicant to make them see otherwise. And it should be the job of the hiring staff to hire the best teacher - not just the teacher that might work out.
One of the things most schools don't want to talk about is the trouble young teachers can get into. Think about it; who is more likely to have problems with alcohol or drugs or get involved with an inappropriate relationship - a young teacher or a more mature teacher?
When it comes to serious learning - and the experience that fleshes out what might seem like confusing or arbitrary rules of grammar - you can't beat a mature teacher.
In North America and Europe (at least) there is no reason why a teacher should "retire" at the age of 60 (as many schools presume).
I may be biased, but it seems to me that older teachers have vastly better stories and, usually, teaching strategies, than younger ones.
Technologies will come and go, but a good teacher will make an impression forever.
In short, don’t let your age be a reason not to pursue a career, or hire someone, as an ESL instructor. Schools are hungry for good dedicated teachers, and in my mind, an older candidate who has a true calling and depth of experience would be an asset to any school!
My best to you as you make your way through this constantly shifting "industry" of working with students.
We are all learning.
Morf
Posted by mmorf at February 18, 2012 09:52 PM
Comments
I've actually found the opposite to be true throughout my entire teaching career, on almost all counts. Further, as a very young-looking forty-year-old, I find myself constantly questioned and challenged and am forever having to justify my credentials. Often, only after finally and exasperatingly telling managers my actual age, have I gotten the job/post I was applying for.
Posted by: k at February 19, 2012 08:47 PM
That sounds like a wonderful problem to have!
I just wish I had that as a problem - or should I say opportunity to present and confirm my experience and areas of skill.
For whatever reason, I have to explain that I am probably NOT as old as they may first assume, and I have no issues related to health or energy that might impede my teaching performance.
Posted by: Morf at February 23, 2012 11:44 AM
Great article! I loved the insight and advice given. Also, your writing style is very fun to read.
Posted by: Rebuild Credit at March 30, 2012 04:35 AM
