Native vs non-native English teachers
When it comes to choosing an English teacher, the first choice that needs to be made is between a local non-native teacher and a native English speaker.
When it comes to choosing an English teacher, the first choice that needs to be made is between a local non-native teacher and a native English speaker.
But which is best? Much depends on your current level and study goals. The internet provides access to a vast pool of native English teachers and lessons are available via Skype. Online classes are often cheaper than studying face-to-face in your city and they provide greater flexibility and choice.
At lower levels, students may prefer to study with a non-native English teacher who shares their mother tongue and is able to explain the fundamentals of grammar in their language. This makes sense as the teacher shares the student’s non-native perception of English and has been through the same language acquisition experience. However, there is always a danger that the non-native teacher will pass on his or her mistakes to the student. This is probably the strongest argument against studying with a non-native but is balanced by the teacher’s knowledge of the student’s mother tongue and professional ability (non-native teachers are often well-qualified).
Once the student can hold a basic conversation in English, it’s time to start considering the option of lessons with a native English speaker. The main advantage of these lessons is that the student is exposed to genuine native English and has an opportunity to learn correct style, pronunciation, modern usage, etc. However, many native English speakers are not qualified teachers and have a poor grasp of grammar. Therefore, it’s important to find a qualified native English teacher.
At OTUK we only employ certified British English teachers with good classroom experience. Many of us are bilingual and speak our students’ language – this gives us the advantages often attributed to non-native teachers of English. We offer online English lessons via Skype and give you 24/7 access to tailor-made British English courses to suit your individual study needs. If you speak the language to pre-intermediate level or above, it’s worth considering online lessons with OTUK. We have the necessary expertise and specialise in providing British English teaching services via Skype.
Children have the ability to gain fluency in English far faster than older learners, but this can only happen if they are given regular contact with the language as part of their daily or weekly routine. Continue reading
Watching films is a fun way to improve your English! In this ESL guide, we will show you 10 of the best movies for studying English and give you tips and resources to help you learn English through films. Ready? Lights, camera, action! Continue reading
Phrasal verbs are commonly used by native speakers in everyday conversation so it’s important to learn them if you want to sound more natural in English. In this study guide, we will teach you 19 phrasal verbs with ‘get’. You will learn all of their meanings through clear explanations and example sentences. Don’t forget to test your knowledge with the exercises at the end! Continue reading
Many students have already recognised the advantages of learning English via Skype and are benefiting from the opportunity to improve their English speaking skills with a native teacher. Continue reading