TEACHER CASE STUDIES

Listen & Learn: Hello, Mary! We’re thrilled to have you with us today! Tell us, what language do you teach and why did you choose a career in teaching?
Mary: I started teaching Japanese almost four years ago, which is when I realized how much I enjoy what I do. I love the Japanese culture and how the language was influenced by it. I love sharing the unique aspects of the language with the students who are eager to learn it.

Listen & Learn: That is truly fulfilling, isn’t it? And how were your beginnings as a teacher? Tell us a bit about your education, your first teaching jobs, etc.
Mary: I have a certificate in Interpreting and Translation, and it has almost been four years since I started my teaching career. I was advertising myself as a tutor, until a colleague recommended that I teach here, at Listen & Learn. I had heard great things about how everything is organized, which made me decide to work with them.

Listen & Learn: And how has been your experience with us so far? Is there any aspect that stands out?
Mary: My favorite thing about working with Listen & Learn is that they are always there to support you. Whenever I have concerns or questions, they get back to me within a few days.

Listen & Learn: It’s awesome to know that you think so highly of our team! And tell me, when a member of our staff contacts you for a new opportunity, what traits do you hope your students will have?
Mary: I look for students who are eager to learn Japanese. Japanese is a historical and culture-based language. Its grammar is completely different from the English one, and there are so many unique aspects to appreciate. I love sharing the uniqueness of this language.

Listen & Learn: Interest is indeed essential to make progress in a language. What do you do to help your students stay interested in learning Japanese?
Mary: I always teach adapting my classes to each student’s pace. I use a textbook, but that’s just a tool. I always complement textbooks with different kinds of activities. I sometimes introduce simple games using Japanese, which is a great way to show how the language could be used for a different purpose, like having fun. One time, my student and I played a Japanese game and it became a great ice breaker. It was one of my most memorable moments working with Listen & Learn.

Listen & Learn: That sounds so entertaining! Your classes seem to be super fun. Before you go, Mary, why do you think students should enroll in a language course with Listen & Learn?
Mary: Students should enroll in a language course with Listen & Learn because they will have full support from the staff at all times. Their team will make sure everything is working out for you. Another reason to join a course with them is that Listen & Learn works with a variety of native-speaking teachers from different backgrounds, so you can learn almost any language with them.