A World of Teaching: Personal Journeys Through the World's English-Speaking Classrooms

As a growing number of North American educators seek unique cultural and professional experiences by teaching abroad, they need a comprehensive resource that addresses the many questions educators face when pursuing such a path. This collection combines the personal experiences of teachers from varying backgrounds, placements, and teaching assignments, with practical resources such as listings of recruiting agencies, job fairs, country research tools, and salary guidelines. Growing naturally from people's need to share their stories with those preparing to join the camaraderie of international teaching, this project resists the formalities of academic or purely informative reporting. There are many variables in overseas teaching—culture shock, housing and transportation, schools and classrooms, and securing resources in a foreign land—and important lessons can be learned from how others have dealt with them. The authentic immediacy of these personal narratives will provide answers to important questions, offer insights on a variety of global issues, and inspire and entertain the teacher-reader. Individual chapters discuss core curriculum and ESL instruction in a variety of contexts. Essays are written in a blend of narrative and expository writing styles, transporting the reader to exotic locations and giving a firsthand experience of the challenges and victories encountered by international teaching professionals.