Hi everyone!
It's great to be a member of this amazing group of teachers, trainers, and materials developers from around the world. Having just read through the introductions, I find myself feeling even more excited about being here.
Although I'm mostly retired now, I spent many years teaching at the university level in Japan and authored a few course books along the way. Most recently I've been taking on small materials development projects for online learning platforms and discovering again how challenging all of this is. I'm therefore here to brush up my skills and what better place to do so? I can already feel the creative power of this fabulous group! I'm very much looking forward to the course.
Saturday, June 30, 2018
Hello everyone -
Hello everyone -
I'm originally from Texas, but I've been teaching TESOL abroad since 2009. I've taught all age groups in S. Korea, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and I'm currently teaching academic writing to university students in the Sichuan province in China. I'm looking forward to this class because I'd like to be able to create content that helps my students because it's a competitive program where they get to transfer to an American university after their sophomore years if they make the grades.
I hold an MA in TESOL from SIT (Vermont, USA), which I received in 2016. I look forward to taking this class, as I've enjoyed all of the classes I've taken at iTDi.
I'm excited about working with you all.
Best,
Amy
I'm originally from Texas, but I've been teaching TESOL abroad since 2009. I've taught all age groups in S. Korea, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and I'm currently teaching academic writing to university students in the Sichuan province in China. I'm looking forward to this class because I'd like to be able to create content that helps my students because it's a competitive program where they get to transfer to an American university after their sophomore years if they make the grades.
I hold an MA in TESOL from SIT (Vermont, USA), which I received in 2016. I look forward to taking this class, as I've enjoyed all of the classes I've taken at iTDi.
I'm excited about working with you all.
Best,
Amy
Hello everyone!
Hello everyone! I feel so excited to be here! Let me tell you some things about me. My name is Efi Tzouri, I come from Greece and I am a mother of two kids. I have been teaching English for almost 17 years and I have been specialised in Experimental theatre as a performing art as well as in British Theatre and Drama both at John Moores University of Liverpool and at Royal Holloway University of London. This is one of the most challenging periods of my life because I am attending a very demanding Master degree Course on Language Education for Refugee and Migrants. Creating ELT materials is one of the most essential skills teachers should have especially when working with learners with refugee background like me.
In my free time I love hanging out with my kids, visiting the local library together and watching animated films. My favourite one (actually two) are "Coco" and "Inside Out". Have you seen any of these films?
In my free time I love hanging out with my kids, visiting the local library together and watching animated films. My favourite one (actually two) are "Coco" and "Inside Out". Have you seen any of these films?
Hi everyone
Hi everyone,
I'm excited to join this course and enjoyed reading everyone's introductions. It's going to be a pleasure to study together. My name's Alan, I'm from Scotland, and I've been teaching in Southern Japan for 15 years. I worked as an in-house trainer at a Japanese engineering company for ten years while I did my MSc in TESOL, and have been working at a liberal arts uni now for a year, because I wanted to develop my teaching skills, and career. I run a business communication special interest group in Japan, and am organizing a conference in Tokyo in Sept, (www.bizcomsig.org) with various collaborations and speakers coming from as far as Argentina, India, Germany & Thailand.
I have some ideas for materials and courses that I would like to develop for business and university contexts, and am happy to have this opportunity to learn, share, and working together. I have used a few online platforms like Adobe Connect & Moodle, but it's my first time using Google Community. This is going to be fun! Hopefully see/talk to you soon at the first live session.
I'm excited to join this course and enjoyed reading everyone's introductions. It's going to be a pleasure to study together. My name's Alan, I'm from Scotland, and I've been teaching in Southern Japan for 15 years. I worked as an in-house trainer at a Japanese engineering company for ten years while I did my MSc in TESOL, and have been working at a liberal arts uni now for a year, because I wanted to develop my teaching skills, and career. I run a business communication special interest group in Japan, and am organizing a conference in Tokyo in Sept, (www.bizcomsig.org) with various collaborations and speakers coming from as far as Argentina, India, Germany & Thailand.
I have some ideas for materials and courses that I would like to develop for business and university contexts, and am happy to have this opportunity to learn, share, and working together. I have used a few online platforms like Adobe Connect & Moodle, but it's my first time using Google Community. This is going to be fun! Hopefully see/talk to you soon at the first live session.
Greetings everyone!
Greetings everyone!
My name is Ereza Mehmeti and I am from Prishtina, Kosovo. Currently I am pursuing my MA degree in Applied Linguistics with TESOL at University of Sheffield in Thessaloniki, Greece. I have been working as an EFL teacher for two years now at 'Britannica' school in Prishtina and I have had the opportunity to work with students of all levels. Despite being a teacher, I have also been a teacher-trainer for Teaching English to Young Learners (TEYL) as part of a training program organised by Kosova English Teachers' Network. I am quite excited to be part of this community as I think we will learn a lot from one another.
I am looking forward to starting the course :)
My name is Ereza Mehmeti and I am from Prishtina, Kosovo. Currently I am pursuing my MA degree in Applied Linguistics with TESOL at University of Sheffield in Thessaloniki, Greece. I have been working as an EFL teacher for two years now at 'Britannica' school in Prishtina and I have had the opportunity to work with students of all levels. Despite being a teacher, I have also been a teacher-trainer for Teaching English to Young Learners (TEYL) as part of a training program organised by Kosova English Teachers' Network. I am quite excited to be part of this community as I think we will learn a lot from one another.
I am looking forward to starting the course :)
Hello everybody!
Hello everybody! My name is Laura Perrotta. I'm from Entre Ríos, Argentina. I run my own language school in my city. I've developed an approach to teach English for different levels but I'm really passionate about young learners. I'm doing an MA at the moment. My first module was about ELT Material Writing. I read Katherine's book Writing Primary Materials and found it really amazing. I usually present about the approach I've developed in different conferences in my country and abroad. I really think Education should change. I'm trying to do my best to see that change. I'm eager to start the course! See you tomorrow!
Hello everyone!
Hello everyone! My name is Belen, and I’m from Rosario, Argentina, but I live in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. I am a freelance CELTA trainer and work for different centers in Latin America. I’ve taught EFL for over 12 years in Argentina and Mexico. I’ve also worked as a Director of Studies in an International Language School and was in charge of in-service training for the school’s English teaching staff. I’m a Cambridge Speaking Examiner and currently working on a project, creating a book series for secondary school learners. I believe this course will give me very helpful ideas on how to create relevant materials for students, and help me improve my writing skills.
I'm looking forward to starting this course and meeting you all!
I'm looking forward to starting this course and meeting you all!
Hi everyone
Hi everyone
I'm Andrew Dobbie and I'm currently based in London after a number of years teaching in Turkey, Egypt and Syria. I'm working at University College London at the moment, teaching English to international students on undergraduate and postgraduate preparatory courses, and I'll hopefully be starting an MA at the Institute of Education here in September on Advanced Educational Practice. We're trying to move away from using standard course books and create more targeted in-house materials so I'm keen to learn how to go about doing this. Looking forward to learning a lot from everyone.
I'm Andrew Dobbie and I'm currently based in London after a number of years teaching in Turkey, Egypt and Syria. I'm working at University College London at the moment, teaching English to international students on undergraduate and postgraduate preparatory courses, and I'll hopefully be starting an MA at the Institute of Education here in September on Advanced Educational Practice. We're trying to move away from using standard course books and create more targeted in-house materials so I'm keen to learn how to go about doing this. Looking forward to learning a lot from everyone.
Hello everyone!
Hello everyone!
My name is Nabila. I am from France. I have been teaching EFL/ESP to speakers of other languages for over 20 years. I have taught all levels and ages, in many contexts ranging from kindergarten to mainstream secondary and also university level.
I am looking forward to starting the course and learning with you all !
My name is Nabila. I am from France. I have been teaching EFL/ESP to speakers of other languages for over 20 years. I have taught all levels and ages, in many contexts ranging from kindergarten to mainstream secondary and also university level.
I am looking forward to starting the course and learning with you all !
Hi everyone!
Hi everyone! I'm Monica and I'm from Cluj-Napoca, Romania. I have been teaching English for about 23 years now, and for about 20 years in the same school. It's a state school but it's one of the first five best schools in Romania(according to statistics). We have very high standards and teaching here is a continuous challenge. We also prepare students for the Cambridge Exams so there's a lot of work to do. Creating my own materials seems like the next logical step in my career since I've been struggling with finding the right material for the right student for some years. I'm really looking forward to starting this course and meeting you all. Hugs from Romania!
Hello there!
Hello there!
My name is Pedro Malafaia and I'm Brazilian. I'm from Rio de Janeiro but currently living in São Paulo, the biggest city in our country. I have a degree in Social Sciences and began teaching English in 2013 when I was doing my MA in Political Sciences. Since then, I've been working full-time as an English teacher, basically because I get to know a lot of different people, coming from totally different walks of life. This is what I enjoy most about this profession.
Aside from teaching private lessons to Business executives, I've been doing a lot of volunteer work as an English teacher. I'm working with two NGOs at the moment: CASA1, which provides shelter and provisional housing for homeless LGBTQ people and Escola Comum, which provides free training and support for potential young leaders coming from the outlying ghettos of São Paulo.
I've enrolled in this course hoping I'll be able to create specific materials for these such diverse audiences. Sometimes it's better to start from scratch instead of spending a lot of time adapting some web-found material. Also, I'm thinking of compiling a set of handouts and guidelines that could be used later on by future volunteer teachers.
Nice to meet you all!
Pedro
My name is Pedro Malafaia and I'm Brazilian. I'm from Rio de Janeiro but currently living in São Paulo, the biggest city in our country. I have a degree in Social Sciences and began teaching English in 2013 when I was doing my MA in Political Sciences. Since then, I've been working full-time as an English teacher, basically because I get to know a lot of different people, coming from totally different walks of life. This is what I enjoy most about this profession.
Aside from teaching private lessons to Business executives, I've been doing a lot of volunteer work as an English teacher. I'm working with two NGOs at the moment: CASA1, which provides shelter and provisional housing for homeless LGBTQ people and Escola Comum, which provides free training and support for potential young leaders coming from the outlying ghettos of São Paulo.
I've enrolled in this course hoping I'll be able to create specific materials for these such diverse audiences. Sometimes it's better to start from scratch instead of spending a lot of time adapting some web-found material. Also, I'm thinking of compiling a set of handouts and guidelines that could be used later on by future volunteer teachers.
Nice to meet you all!
Pedro
Friday, June 29, 2018
Hi again everyone
Hi again everyone,
I have just been reading through your posts. What an amazing group! I am sure this will be an exciting learning experience simply because of the cultural diversity, let alone the professional diversity! I can't wait to start. Thank you Katherine and Barbara for making this possible.
I have just been reading through your posts. What an amazing group! I am sure this will be an exciting learning experience simply because of the cultural diversity, let alone the professional diversity! I can't wait to start. Thank you Katherine and Barbara for making this possible.
Hi everyone!
Hi everyone! I'm Laura from Turin, Northern Italy. I've been teaching different learners for different purposes over the years and my main area of expertise is exams. This is my second time on this course. I enjoyed it very much the first time snd am happy to refresh my material writing skills. Looking forward to working together.
Dear Teachers
Dear Teachers,
Here's information about our first live session for Creating ELT Materials. The same information went out by email, but some people find it easier to find the link for the room if it's in our community.
Our first live session will be this Sunday, June 1st at 13:00 GMT. This is 06:00 in Los Angeles, 08:00 in Mexico City, 14:00 in London, 15:00 in Barcelona and 22:00 in Japan.
Check what time this is for you: https://timeanddate.com/s/3jqp
The link for our virtual room is:
http://itdipro.adobeconnect.com/cem2kb/
Please do not share this link, or the recordings, with anyone who is not a registered participant in this course.
If this is your first time to attend a course in our Adobe Pro Connect room, please read this before joining the Sunday session:
You do not need to log into our adobe room. Just click on the room link, and then enter as a guest. Type your name and country in the "name" box, and then click "enter the room". That's all you have to do in order to join the class.
Our session will last about an hour, and will be recorded, so if the time doesn't work for you, or if something happens to your connection, don't worry. We'll send a link to the recording after the session, and you can watch at your convenience.
If this is the first time you've attended a live session in adobe connect pro, you may need to update your flash plugin. You can get more information, and see if your computer or tablet is configured for adobe here: http://bit.ly/1cqeSh4
The first time you access our room, you should be prompted to download anything you need to install. If you run into difficulties, Steven be available on email (steven.herder@gmail.com) and skype (bluesteed). We'll have the room open about 30 minutes before our 13:00 start time in case you would like to come in and check your audio.
See you on Sunday!
Barb, with Steven, Phil, Gareth and the entire iTDi Team
Here's information about our first live session for Creating ELT Materials. The same information went out by email, but some people find it easier to find the link for the room if it's in our community.
Our first live session will be this Sunday, June 1st at 13:00 GMT. This is 06:00 in Los Angeles, 08:00 in Mexico City, 14:00 in London, 15:00 in Barcelona and 22:00 in Japan.
Check what time this is for you: https://timeanddate.com/s/3jqp
The link for our virtual room is:
http://itdipro.adobeconnect.com/cem2kb/
Please do not share this link, or the recordings, with anyone who is not a registered participant in this course.
If this is your first time to attend a course in our Adobe Pro Connect room, please read this before joining the Sunday session:
You do not need to log into our adobe room. Just click on the room link, and then enter as a guest. Type your name and country in the "name" box, and then click "enter the room". That's all you have to do in order to join the class.
Our session will last about an hour, and will be recorded, so if the time doesn't work for you, or if something happens to your connection, don't worry. We'll send a link to the recording after the session, and you can watch at your convenience.
If this is the first time you've attended a live session in adobe connect pro, you may need to update your flash plugin. You can get more information, and see if your computer or tablet is configured for adobe here: http://bit.ly/1cqeSh4
The first time you access our room, you should be prompted to download anything you need to install. If you run into difficulties, Steven be available on email (steven.herder@gmail.com) and skype (bluesteed). We'll have the room open about 30 minutes before our 13:00 start time in case you would like to come in and check your audio.
See you on Sunday!
Barb, with Steven, Phil, Gareth and the entire iTDi Team
Hello everyone
Hello everyone,
My name is Myrto Chatzigeoriadou (I'm a real person - don't mind my name). I studied English Language and Literature at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, and, then, I completed an MA in Education Management at King's College London. As for my professional life, I have been a teacher of English since 2004, teaching students of all ages and levels in a variety of educational contexts and institutions.
I had always liked creating my own materials for my students when, seven years ago, I found out that I also had a gift for writing. Thus, I got a job at Super Course ELT Publishing where I still work as a full-time writer. Having written several books as well as developed ELT materials for beginner, elementary and intermediate levels, I thought that taking part in this course would give me fresh and helpful ideas so as to improve my writing skills and technique. Looking forward to it!
My name is Myrto Chatzigeoriadou (I'm a real person - don't mind my name). I studied English Language and Literature at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, and, then, I completed an MA in Education Management at King's College London. As for my professional life, I have been a teacher of English since 2004, teaching students of all ages and levels in a variety of educational contexts and institutions.
I had always liked creating my own materials for my students when, seven years ago, I found out that I also had a gift for writing. Thus, I got a job at Super Course ELT Publishing where I still work as a full-time writer. Having written several books as well as developed ELT materials for beginner, elementary and intermediate levels, I thought that taking part in this course would give me fresh and helpful ideas so as to improve my writing skills and technique. Looking forward to it!
Hello dear classmates!
Hello dear classmates!
My name is Sophia and I'm from Greece!
I've been teaching English since 2010. In 2011, I was hired to work as a writer by Super Course ELT publishing. Two years later, I was promoted to the position of the editor-in-chief.
I'm currently working on a project, creating a book series for young learners. I really love my job and I'm sure that your course will help me discover new approaches in both writing and teaching.
I'm looking forward to starting it!
Nice to meet you all! Good luck!
My name is Sophia and I'm from Greece!
I've been teaching English since 2010. In 2011, I was hired to work as a writer by Super Course ELT publishing. Two years later, I was promoted to the position of the editor-in-chief.
I'm currently working on a project, creating a book series for young learners. I really love my job and I'm sure that your course will help me discover new approaches in both writing and teaching.
I'm looking forward to starting it!
Nice to meet you all! Good luck!
Thursday, June 28, 2018
Hello everyone
Hello everyone,
My name is Suzanne. I am also happy to be starting another iTDi course. I teach at a university's IEP in California, and I also taught for several years in Korea. Part of my job requires me to develop materials for various short courses, but sometimes I feel I do a haphazard job with this creation. I would like to learn how to make my materials more cohesive and professional when creating and developing new curriculum. I look forward to learning from all of you!
My name is Suzanne. I am also happy to be starting another iTDi course. I teach at a university's IEP in California, and I also taught for several years in Korea. Part of my job requires me to develop materials for various short courses, but sometimes I feel I do a haphazard job with this creation. I would like to learn how to make my materials more cohesive and professional when creating and developing new curriculum. I look forward to learning from all of you!
Hello Everyone
Hello Everyone,
I am also happy to be starting another iTDi course. I always find them so helpful!
My name is Debbie Kellermann. I have recently retired from teaching ELP students and TESOL methods at the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida, in the USA. I am now teaching at various other private schools because the State if Florida makes it impossible to teach at other Public Colleges or Schools for at least a year. I am enjoying teaching fewer students and fewer hours. I am also working on preparing some of my materials for publication and this course will enable me to achieve those other goals!
I am also happy to be starting another iTDi course. I always find them so helpful!
My name is Debbie Kellermann. I have recently retired from teaching ELP students and TESOL methods at the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida, in the USA. I am now teaching at various other private schools because the State if Florida makes it impossible to teach at other Public Colleges or Schools for at least a year. I am enjoying teaching fewer students and fewer hours. I am also working on preparing some of my materials for publication and this course will enable me to achieve those other goals!
Dear All
Dear All,
My name is Mariia Ruban. I have been teaching English at secondary schools in Ukraine since 1984. Have had a lot of experience facilitating teenagers with the opportunity to become conscious sitizens.
Believe that the teacher has more power in their classroom than any Prime Minister in their Cabinet. So I have been doing my best to use this opportunity and make a difference in my learners' lives.
I have been thinking teaching and teaching thoughts since I graduated from the Pedagogical University in 1984.
I am here on the course to learn and share.
Hope the course will be enjoyable to all.
CU there :)
My name is Mariia Ruban. I have been teaching English at secondary schools in Ukraine since 1984. Have had a lot of experience facilitating teenagers with the opportunity to become conscious sitizens.
Believe that the teacher has more power in their classroom than any Prime Minister in their Cabinet. So I have been doing my best to use this opportunity and make a difference in my learners' lives.
I have been thinking teaching and teaching thoughts since I graduated from the Pedagogical University in 1984.
I am here on the course to learn and share.
Hope the course will be enjoyable to all.
CU there :)
Wednesday, June 27, 2018
Hi everyone
Hi everyone,
It's lovely to be here. The first question everyone asks someone they meet for the first time is "Where are you from?" Not the best question for me. Let me explain. Born in England, lived there for years, parents from Greece, live in Greece now. In England I was the Greek, in Greece they call me "Anglida" - English. So, I consider myself an in-between!! :)
I've taught English for almost 20 years. I don't teach anymore, but as the saying goes "Once a teacher always a teacher."
Looking forward to working with everyone and picking everyone's brains.
It's lovely to be here. The first question everyone asks someone they meet for the first time is "Where are you from?" Not the best question for me. Let me explain. Born in England, lived there for years, parents from Greece, live in Greece now. In England I was the Greek, in Greece they call me "Anglida" - English. So, I consider myself an in-between!! :)
I've taught English for almost 20 years. I don't teach anymore, but as the saying goes "Once a teacher always a teacher."
Looking forward to working with everyone and picking everyone's brains.
Hello :)
Hello :)
My name is Roman and I am from Poland. I am an English teacher and I also design ELT books.
My name is Roman and I am from Poland. I am an English teacher and I also design ELT books.
Hello classmates!
Hello classmates!
I am Alisa Halim from Malaysia. I am currently teaching in a secondary public school in Terengganu. I own a B.Ed and currently searching for a scholarship to do a Master degree.
I hope to gain a lot from this course. Our textbook is more than a decade old now hence requires a lot of adaptations. The internet (TPT and Pinterest for instance) has helped me a lot. Yet I need more. I need to create my own. The one that suits my students (their needs and their context).
Oh my! I can’t wait July 1st.
I am Alisa Halim from Malaysia. I am currently teaching in a secondary public school in Terengganu. I own a B.Ed and currently searching for a scholarship to do a Master degree.
I hope to gain a lot from this course. Our textbook is more than a decade old now hence requires a lot of adaptations. The internet (TPT and Pinterest for instance) has helped me a lot. Yet I need more. I need to create my own. The one that suits my students (their needs and their context).
Oh my! I can’t wait July 1st.
Hello Fellow Colleagues!
Hello Fellow Colleagues!
I've been an English teacher for just over 14 years now, having taught everything from juniors to adults. I am currently living in Canada, and work in a LINC program (Language Instruction for Newcomers) which are essentially federally-funded (free!) English classes for refugees and newcomers from all over the world. Our goal is to help non-Canadians integrate and find jobs.
The main reason I am interested in this course is to continue learning how to develop better and more practical materials for my students. In LINC, teachers are responsible for the curriculum (via a "Needs Assessment"), materials, student binders/portfolios, and (continuous) assessments (we use Portfolio-based Language Assessment/PBLA). Everything is task-based and communicative, with grammar, of course, in context. Yes, it's as tough as it may sound, but also greatly rewarding.
This kind of course will no doubt offer us all a chance to learn, network, and discuss many useful and amazing things!
Looking forward to July 1st!
Cheers,
Emel
I've been an English teacher for just over 14 years now, having taught everything from juniors to adults. I am currently living in Canada, and work in a LINC program (Language Instruction for Newcomers) which are essentially federally-funded (free!) English classes for refugees and newcomers from all over the world. Our goal is to help non-Canadians integrate and find jobs.
The main reason I am interested in this course is to continue learning how to develop better and more practical materials for my students. In LINC, teachers are responsible for the curriculum (via a "Needs Assessment"), materials, student binders/portfolios, and (continuous) assessments (we use Portfolio-based Language Assessment/PBLA). Everything is task-based and communicative, with grammar, of course, in context. Yes, it's as tough as it may sound, but also greatly rewarding.
This kind of course will no doubt offer us all a chance to learn, network, and discuss many useful and amazing things!
Looking forward to July 1st!
Cheers,
Emel
Hello everyone!
Hello everyone!
Great to be here (again).
I come from Poland, but I have lived and worked in Greece for 17 years now (so long!). I am an English instructor and a materials writer. I have taught English at all levels and ages, and for various purposes, but my main interests include storytelling to (very) young learners and incorporating social issues into ELT. Last year, after many intensive years of teaching, I switched careers and I am now on the team of writers at an ELT publishing company here in Greece. In this way, I take a break from teaching to recharge my batteries, but I do use my teaching experience to engage in the creative process of developing ELT materials. I love the way things have worked out!
I also have plenty of ideas which I would like to self-publish (but I never find the time to complete these projects :( ), and that’s why I will be also repeating Dorothy Zemach’s course on self-publishing in September. Hopefully, the two courses motivate me to finalise my projects (fingers crossed).
Outside of work, I am a hobbyist photographer and dancer and a mother of two (or four, if you count Mocha, the dog, and Cookie, the cat, too. And I do :) )
Looking forward to working with Katherine (who is an amazing person and a fantastic trainer) and with all of you!
M.
Great to be here (again).
I come from Poland, but I have lived and worked in Greece for 17 years now (so long!). I am an English instructor and a materials writer. I have taught English at all levels and ages, and for various purposes, but my main interests include storytelling to (very) young learners and incorporating social issues into ELT. Last year, after many intensive years of teaching, I switched careers and I am now on the team of writers at an ELT publishing company here in Greece. In this way, I take a break from teaching to recharge my batteries, but I do use my teaching experience to engage in the creative process of developing ELT materials. I love the way things have worked out!
I also have plenty of ideas which I would like to self-publish (but I never find the time to complete these projects :( ), and that’s why I will be also repeating Dorothy Zemach’s course on self-publishing in September. Hopefully, the two courses motivate me to finalise my projects (fingers crossed).
Outside of work, I am a hobbyist photographer and dancer and a mother of two (or four, if you count Mocha, the dog, and Cookie, the cat, too. And I do :) )
Looking forward to working with Katherine (who is an amazing person and a fantastic trainer) and with all of you!
M.
Tuesday, June 26, 2018
Hi everyone!
Hi everyone!
I'm excited and eager to take this course with you all and have enjoyed reading your introductions.
I taught in Japan from 2001-2014 in a range of contexts from kindy, JHS/HS and uni to private corporations, government ministries and an NGO/NPO, as well as doing some private classes and tuition. Having spent the last 4 years primarily as a stay-at-home dad with 3 littl'uns, I've just been doing some tuition for primarily-aged kids, plus tutoring MA TESOL and MA Applied Linguistics candidates. Now, I'm gradually re-launching my career and have enjoyed developing the new iTDi TESOL Certificate Course and hosting The Teachers' Room with Steven Herder since February.
From lesson planning to materials development, I've always had a passion for the creative-side as we try to craft, support, and stimulate the learning process. And as I moved away from textbooks to developing course-specific materials, I became increasingly interested in materials development and would like to learn to do this more professionally.
https://itdi.pro/itdihome/the-teachers-room/
I'm excited and eager to take this course with you all and have enjoyed reading your introductions.
I taught in Japan from 2001-2014 in a range of contexts from kindy, JHS/HS and uni to private corporations, government ministries and an NGO/NPO, as well as doing some private classes and tuition. Having spent the last 4 years primarily as a stay-at-home dad with 3 littl'uns, I've just been doing some tuition for primarily-aged kids, plus tutoring MA TESOL and MA Applied Linguistics candidates. Now, I'm gradually re-launching my career and have enjoyed developing the new iTDi TESOL Certificate Course and hosting The Teachers' Room with Steven Herder since February.
From lesson planning to materials development, I've always had a passion for the creative-side as we try to craft, support, and stimulate the learning process. And as I moved away from textbooks to developing course-specific materials, I became increasingly interested in materials development and would like to learn to do this more professionally.
https://itdi.pro/itdihome/the-teachers-room/
Hello classmates!
Hello classmates!
It is wonderful to read about all of our unique backgrounds and passion for the profession. I have been an English language instructor (based in Bilbao, Spain) for 10 years now. I have a Masters in Applied Linguistics and I am always looking for ways to grow further and collaborate with other teachers. At present, I work for an online platform both as a teacher and a project-based content publisher.
I would like to gain more insight into materials writing to better personalize my classes, as my students tend to be extremely diverse. I am used to making my own materials but I think I could be going about it more methodically so I hope this class will give me a good push in the right direction.
I also think that there are SO MANY fascinating ideas, cultures, places, etc. in the world that traditional ELT materials don't always give enough voice to, so that's why I want to get a little bit more involved on the other end of the pipeline.
Thanks in advance!
It is wonderful to read about all of our unique backgrounds and passion for the profession. I have been an English language instructor (based in Bilbao, Spain) for 10 years now. I have a Masters in Applied Linguistics and I am always looking for ways to grow further and collaborate with other teachers. At present, I work for an online platform both as a teacher and a project-based content publisher.
I would like to gain more insight into materials writing to better personalize my classes, as my students tend to be extremely diverse. I am used to making my own materials but I think I could be going about it more methodically so I hope this class will give me a good push in the right direction.
I also think that there are SO MANY fascinating ideas, cultures, places, etc. in the world that traditional ELT materials don't always give enough voice to, so that's why I want to get a little bit more involved on the other end of the pipeline.
Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone!
Hi everyone!
I’m Andreas and I live in Thessaloniki, Greece. I’ve been teaching English as a foreign language since 2009 and I’ve taught Greek learners of various proficiency levels. In 2015, I started working as a full-time writer for Supercourse ELT Publishing.
I’ve studied English language and literature in Aristotle University, Thessaloniki. Also, I hold an MA in Applied Linguistics and, right now, I’m a third-year PHD student. My field of study is experimental and corpus linguistics.
For me, creating ELT materials is quite exciting. The reason for taking this course is to explore approaches in writing materials and learn as much as I can from Katherine Bilsborough’s experience. I’m really looking forward to it!
I’m Andreas and I live in Thessaloniki, Greece. I’ve been teaching English as a foreign language since 2009 and I’ve taught Greek learners of various proficiency levels. In 2015, I started working as a full-time writer for Supercourse ELT Publishing.
I’ve studied English language and literature in Aristotle University, Thessaloniki. Also, I hold an MA in Applied Linguistics and, right now, I’m a third-year PHD student. My field of study is experimental and corpus linguistics.
For me, creating ELT materials is quite exciting. The reason for taking this course is to explore approaches in writing materials and learn as much as I can from Katherine Bilsborough’s experience. I’m really looking forward to it!
Hi everybody!
Hi everybody! My name is Alessandra but my students call me Miss Alex:-) I teach English as a second language to primary and secondary school students and I love it... well.. most of the times:-) I have been teaching English for almost twenty years and I really love this job! I always try to make it fun and to try new things. I always try to engage students, be it with a game or a conversation activity or even using ICT! Over the years I have read, studied and used different books and resources and in the last five years I have started to add a little bit of my own to them. I have started creating my own materials and use them in the classes. I do have to say that it is rewarding and a lot of fun! Of course I self taught myself how to do it so now I think it is time to properly know how to do it. I am glad I joined this course and I can't wait to start! Have a nice day everybody!
Hi Everyone
Hi Everyone
I'm Ellie - I live in Birmingham, in the UK. I teach Business English online and I also have some one-to-one face-to-face students periodically, to whom I teach Business or general English. At the moment, when I need to, I create very basic resources for my students but usually I mine the internet for things I can adapt. I'd like to know how to create effective, professional resources, hence signing up for this course. I'd like to build up a bank of resources too, because at the moment my resource creation is very hand-to-mouth and it can be quite stressful(!). I'm also looking forward to learning from all of the other participants, as well as Katherine.
I'm Ellie - I live in Birmingham, in the UK. I teach Business English online and I also have some one-to-one face-to-face students periodically, to whom I teach Business or general English. At the moment, when I need to, I create very basic resources for my students but usually I mine the internet for things I can adapt. I'd like to know how to create effective, professional resources, hence signing up for this course. I'd like to build up a bank of resources too, because at the moment my resource creation is very hand-to-mouth and it can be quite stressful(!). I'm also looking forward to learning from all of the other participants, as well as Katherine.
Monday, June 25, 2018
Hi
Hi,
I'm Rehmat Ebrahim... an ELT professional with many years of classroom teaching experience plus facilitating trainings, educating ELT professionals and developing courses etc in the field of ELT.
Materials writing is an aspect of ELT I'd like to gain expertise in. As I move into the 'educator' category, I'd like to start developing my own materials and may be even publish them at least locally for Pakistani teachers.
I'm looking forward to this course and hope to learn a lot from the facilitator and the course participants.
Sunday, June 24, 2018
My name is Rhett Burton.
My name is Rhett Burton.
I have been teaching for 16 years.
I am mostly self taught.
I do have several certificates from Cambridge.
I started a study room in my house 6 years ago. I teach mostly a1 level elementary school students 12 times a month.
I create 95% of my own materials.
I sell materials via courses to my students monthly.
I love it because I always I can better cater to my students needs by providing them the care that they require. And, even if I can’t, I just think that I can’t offer that solution ‘yet’.
My mission is to help all my students find success in learning by reaching them at their level and at a pace that they enjoy.
I like building and designing content for my students.
I makes me happy.
I look forward to seeing, hearing and discussing with other designers about their projects.
I have been teaching for 16 years.
I am mostly self taught.
I do have several certificates from Cambridge.
I started a study room in my house 6 years ago. I teach mostly a1 level elementary school students 12 times a month.
I create 95% of my own materials.
I sell materials via courses to my students monthly.
I love it because I always I can better cater to my students needs by providing them the care that they require. And, even if I can’t, I just think that I can’t offer that solution ‘yet’.
My mission is to help all my students find success in learning by reaching them at their level and at a pace that they enjoy.
I like building and designing content for my students.
I makes me happy.
I look forward to seeing, hearing and discussing with other designers about their projects.
Hi everyone
Hi everyone,
I'm Aya and I'm from Egypt. I have been a teacher of English for almost 8 years. I worked at British Council Egypt and Tunisia. Currently, I work as an academic manager at a language center in Cairo.
I'm so excited to meet all of you and looking forward to the course.
I'm Aya and I'm from Egypt. I have been a teacher of English for almost 8 years. I worked at British Council Egypt and Tunisia. Currently, I work as an academic manager at a language center in Cairo.
I'm so excited to meet all of you and looking forward to the course.
Hello everyone
Hello everyone,
I'm Carmen. I'm currently living and working in Dubai at the Higher Colleges of Technology, Dubai Men's Campus. I'm the Foundations Program Coordinator. I was born and raised in Canada. My parents were Spanish. I am on a voluntary leave of absence from my position at a language school in Spain. I'm looking forward to meeting new teachers and sharing ideas. I like to think of myself as a lifelong learner that is why I am always looking for new learning experiences.
I'm Carmen. I'm currently living and working in Dubai at the Higher Colleges of Technology, Dubai Men's Campus. I'm the Foundations Program Coordinator. I was born and raised in Canada. My parents were Spanish. I am on a voluntary leave of absence from my position at a language school in Spain. I'm looking forward to meeting new teachers and sharing ideas. I like to think of myself as a lifelong learner that is why I am always looking for new learning experiences.
Hello everyone!
Hello everyone!
My name is Eugenia Gatica and i live in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
I have been teaching for almost 10 years and I am currently the headmistress of the english department in a bilingual school. Also, I studied and worked in some universities in Boston, USA. and this opened my mind to different approaches of the language and ELT materials. I am very enthusiastic about this course and I hope we take the most of it.
Nice to meet you all!
My name is Eugenia Gatica and i live in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
I have been teaching for almost 10 years and I am currently the headmistress of the english department in a bilingual school. Also, I studied and worked in some universities in Boston, USA. and this opened my mind to different approaches of the language and ELT materials. I am very enthusiastic about this course and I hope we take the most of it.
Nice to meet you all!
Hi to all course participants!
Hi to all course participants!
I’m Maria Anna and I live in Bozen. Although I live and work in South Tyrol, I come from the south of Italy and my family still lives there. I studied English at the University of Bari and got my degree in foreign languages (German and English). I like foreign languages very much. I teach English as a foreign language to teens in a Professional School. I have been teaching for 11 years and I like doing this job.
I’m Maria Anna and I live in Bozen. Although I live and work in South Tyrol, I come from the south of Italy and my family still lives there. I studied English at the University of Bari and got my degree in foreign languages (German and English). I like foreign languages very much. I teach English as a foreign language to teens in a Professional School. I have been teaching for 11 years and I like doing this job.
Welcome!
Welcome! I'll usually be behind the scenes, sending emails each week and making sure things go smoothly during the course. If you run into problems or have questions, you can either send me an email, or just leave a message in google community (use the category "Help" to be sure I see it). I'm based in Japan, where the time zone is GMT+9. If you send me a message and don't hear back right away, I may be asleep :)
Hello everyone
Hello everyone,
My name is Gordana and I'm from Serbia. I've been teaching English as a Foreign Language at a secondary vocational school since 1991.
Although I have some experience in creating ELT materials for my students, I believe I'm going to learn a lot from Katherine Bilsborough and all of you in weeks to come.
Good luck, everyone.
My name is Gordana and I'm from Serbia. I've been teaching English as a Foreign Language at a secondary vocational school since 1991.
Although I have some experience in creating ELT materials for my students, I believe I'm going to learn a lot from Katherine Bilsborough and all of you in weeks to come.
Good luck, everyone.
Saturday, June 23, 2018
A huge welcome to all course participants!
A huge welcome to all course participants! I'm delighted to meet you all and am looking forward to our joint adventures on this course. I'm very excited because I know it's going to be a huge learning opportunity for everyone - including me. The most important thing is for everyone to feel welcome and comfortable in our group, to share ideas and experiences and to make sure we are all at our most creative! I am here to help in any way I can and remember 'there is no such thing as a silly question' so let me or the ITDI team know if you have any concerns. You can get in touch here or you can send me a private email: kathbilsborough@yahoo.co.uk This section is called 'Introductions' so please add a short post, telling us a little bit about who you are and where you work. No rules! We're all just getting to know each other.
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