TESOL Arabia for non-English Teachers
David Bozetarnik
“The goal of TESOL Arabia is to establish a network of communication among professionals who use English as a medium of instruction, in order to promote and maintain the excellence of their teaching and administration.” –TESOL Arabia’s mission statement
The key part of this statement is “…professionals who use English as a medium of instruction,” not those who are English teachers. TESOL Arabia is invaluable to those who wish to keep current on the latest teacher practices and educational technologies, what is working and what isn’t. Whether it be more general in nature, such as iPads vs laptops in education, or using specific apps such as Kahoot to keep students’ interest levels high, there is usually something for everyone at TESOL Arabia. Though that may be true, for the most part I only see English teachers each year that I attend. I don’t see Maths teachers there, for example, nor do I see other General Studies faculties represented. This conference serves as an important forum for discussion and support, for all teachers, not just for English teachers. I would very much like to see the day when one first asks “What do you teach?” rather than just “Where do you teach?”
I encourage colleagues from non-English Foundations departments, and non-Foundations faculty as well, to sign up to present at future TESOL Arabia events. More presenters would mean more attendees. The more who attend means increasing their respective fields are more represented within TESOL Arabia. The organization is there for all, but more have to participate. Again, go back and read their mission statement. It is for those who use English as a medium of instruction. Surely we English Foundations teachers are not the only ones who use English in class!
In closing, please consider joining TESOL Arabia, even if you are not an English Foundations teacher. You all have something to share in your field. As other non-English Foundations faculty start to become a regular fixture at these events, then word will get around. Others who don’t teach English but who teach in English will realize they are also being represented, and there is a chance to share what you know, and to learn from others. This increased institutional cross-pollination can only be a good thing, and will ultimately not only benefit teachers but students as well. To not do so risks professional fossilization.
To check out the TESOL Arabia website, go to: http://www.tesolarabia.co/