The Work Behind The Scenes
While scrolling through my Instagram feed I usually come across a lot of posts from teachers who advertise themselves as super organized and productive. It does make sense since being a teacher requires a set of skills that we learn to develop throughout the years. Another kind of post which is usually seen is the ‘my-classes-are-super-creative’ ones. Again, another great thing to share, especially if the teacher in question has been teaching for a long time and has worked hard to acquire the ability to adapt or create tasks and materials.
Don’t get me wrong. I am not saying these things to criticize these teachers. I have posted quite a few similar things myself. I do understand the importance of advertising our services and products. After all, we all have bills to pay and we must have an eye-catching portfolio so as to attract new customers. But the unavoidable question is: how much of what we do on social media is actually helping other teachers and our learners?
I am all for inspiring and getting inspired on social media, but from my point of view the work we do behind the scenes is the one thing that may cause a greater impact to our community of colleagues and learners. So, if you feel like becoming a teacher trainer and making a difference by leaving a long-lasting legacy, take a look at the suggestions below:
Help a fellow teacher who is currently trying to get a certification
You may know someone who is trying their best to pass a C2 Proficiency exam or is taking the CELTA or the DELTA. It is very likely that they are going through a lot right now and they may benefit a lot from simple things we are able to do. For instance, offer help to create materials or to practice for part of the exam. Another great idea is to simply revise or check their work. This will end up being a win-win situation because by doing these things we get the chance to learn from them as well.
Think about fellow teachers who are not online
Have you found a really interesting ready-to-use lesson plan? Or have you created a fantastic activity that worked wonders for your groups? So how about sharing these with your co-workers? It is always good to remember that not everyone has time to be active on social media all the time. It may seem like it isn’t much, but these ideas are life savers for teachers who somehow lack time for preparation.
Present at a free event/conference
You may have an amazing idea which will not reach a great number of other teachers who can’t afford courses. Think of all the teachers you could be helping. What is more, think of all the learners you will be helping by having inspired that one teacher who watched your presentation.
Taking everything into account, let us use the power that social media has given us to elevate each other. I hope we are all able to empower and be empowered through this versatile tool.
Henrique Zamboni
Henrique Zamboni has been in ELT for more than 15 years, having worked for different schools and language institutes. He holds the C2 Proficiency Certificate and the CELTA, a degree in Letras and a degree in Marketing. He is the founder of Inglês Para Adolescentes, where he is a teacher of teenagers and teacher trainer.
