Do I have to know specialized topics like engineering, for example, to teach industrial clients?
No. Most students want more general English. Even if they are doing something specific to their work, the English is usually at a level that you might expect to read in a newspaper or magazine for general readership, like Popular Science. Occasionally it is more demanding, but teachers are expected to prepare before taking the lesson into class, and while many of our teachers are from humanities backgrounds, they enjoy the challenge, finding the work very rewarding. Certainly a broad-based common knowledge (and common sense) about a wide variety of subjects is a real asset. Also, ability on the teacher's part to listen and learn from the students, and not just lecture them, is essential.
Are the teachers obliged to follow the text?
Yes. The texts form the backbone of the students' courses, and should be used for 70~80% of each lesson, on average. But 20% to 30% of the lesson time is given over to the teacher's or students' own material. In other words, teachers should expand, modify and supplement the lessons to suit the students' needs and goals. Students should be encouraged to prepare and make short presentations on work-related topics. E.g., a student at Mitsubishi Chemicals recently presented on CO2 recovery and utilization, while other at Toyo Tanso described how their graphite products ware essential components in dry pumps.
Can you show me an example from a Unit Text as used in an engineering Client's class?
Model Conversation(Ship-building)
Design Department
- The owner wants us to provide strainers on the fresh water pump.
- To stop debris getting into the pump. They say it’s a safety factor.
- Not to my knowledge.
- I went back a couple of years and couldn't find any.
Management
- What for?
- Has there ever been a problem with stuff getting into the pump?
- No record of any complaints in the past?
- Then tell them, sorry, but please stay with the current design.
True/False Statements for Listening Comprehension
- According to the original design, there is no strainer on the pump. T
- According to the original design, the pump has a strainer. F
- The owners don’t agree with the current design of the water pump inlet. T
- The owners don’t agree with the current design of the water pump outlet. F
- The pump has been damaged by debris. F
- The pump could be damaged if debris got in. T
- A strainer would prevent debris from getting into the pump. T
- The record shows that pumps have often failed due to debris getting in. F
- Management wants the design department to accept the owner's opinion. F
- Management wants the design department to refuse the owner’s request. T
How often do students take lessons?
Time and budget are an obvious factor, but the great majority of company clients take lessons once a week for two hours if in a group setting, or once or twice a week for 45 or 90 minutes if in 'one-on-one' or group classes.
What qualifications do I need?
You must have the minimum of a university degree. Not only does LH insist on this, but Japanese immigration will not issue a visa if you don't have a degree. Practical teaching experience is preferred. You must also have a clean police record. Good health is obviously necessary.
What if I don’t have any teaching experience?
We prefer that you do have teaching experience, or experience dealing face-to-face with clients. But some of our best teachers have been from non-teaching backgrounds. They have excellent people skills, can "read" on their clients' faces how well they are doing, and have a good sense for the most efficient way for a student to reach his goals. The best teacher we have at present is from a strong teaching background. But recently another teacher, who had never taught before he came to Japan, was rated by his clients far above most of those with pure teaching backgrounds. He had a bright, infectiously optimistic demeanor that inspired the students – and he prepared extensively for his lessons. The kind of person we don't need is the one who comes in with an arrogant attitude, thinking they are going to teach the Japanese how to live in the "superior" Western way.
