English is becoming increasingly important in today’s world, and that is reflected by Taiwan’s rising demand for English teachers. With so many opportunities, it can be overwhelming trying to find the best one. This article gives an overview of the English education landscape in Taiwan, explains what to look for when choosing a school, institute, or program, and gives a top 5 of the best programs to teach English in Taiwan.
The English Education Landscape in Taiwan
While the official language of Taiwan is Mandarin Chinese, about 30% of the population speaks English. English is not an official foreign language in Taiwan, but this high percentage reflects Taiwan’s recognition of the importance of English proficiency in today’s globalized society.
Schools’ curriculums reflect this recognition, as well as the respect enjoyed by teachers in Taiwan. Schools are doing their best to enhance English language education among Taiwanese youth. Examples of this effort are curriculum revisions and more and more attention given to communicative skills. Unfortunately, there are challenges including large class sizes and limited opportunities for everyday practice.
Therefore, it is no surprise that there is a surge in demand for private language programs. Private language programs offer personalized, often one-on-one teaching and can tailor the learning experience to each individual’s needs. This higher demand reflects the importance the Taiwanese people place on achieving high levels of English proficiency in academic, occupational, and personal endeavors.
Interested in teaching English in Taiwan? Check out this guide with things to know when teaching English in Taiwan.
Choosing the right program: What to Look for
Accreditation and certification
Accreditation and certification should be the benchmarks for judging the quality of the program. Having the right accreditation and certifications ensures the program meets (international) recognized standards of quality and follows approved educational practices.
Accreditation bodies of note include the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) which can award Approved Quality Curriculum (AQC) status, the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulations (Ofqual), the British Accreditation Council (BAC), Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), Open & Distance Learning Quality Council (ODLQC), and UK Register of Learning Providers (UKRLP).
Quality of instructors
A school is only as good as its instructors, thus a second important criterion to check is the quality of instructors. Trained educators will significantly improve the effectiveness of the overall learning experience of a given program.
Curriculum and teaching methods
Tied to the quality of instructors are a school’s curriculum and the preferred teaching methods. The teaching landscape is constantly changing, and English language programs must keep up with current teaching methods and adjust their curriculum to modern needs.
Student reviews and testimonials of other teachers
Real-world feedback from previous students and other teachers can give you an insight into the working conditions and general atmosphere of the program. Especially look for red flags in teachers’ reviews in terms of working conditions.
Top 5 English Programs for Teachers in Taiwan
1. Hess Education
Hess Education started as a single school in 1983 and has now grown into the number one English education program in Taiwan. Hess Education offers programs for both young learners and adults, with a wide network across Taiwan.
While specific accreditations may vary per school, most language schools in Taiwan adhere to the regulations set by the Ministry of Education. In line with those regulations, Hess often requires that their teachers hold a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification.
On top of having the required degree and certification, Hess offers comprehensive training programs to all their new teachers, which could include things like orientation sessions, workshops, and ongoing training to prepare teachers and make sure they stay up to date with current teaching methods.
2, American Eagle Institute (AEI)
The American Eagle Institute (AEI) is renowned for its excellent English language programs. The institute offers a range of language courses, each tailored to different age groups and language proficiency levels. AEI is known for its experienced teaching staff, which usually comprises both local and foreign teachers.
The institute also provides ongoing training for all its teachers so they can continue to develop themselves professionally, and so ensures teachers stay well-equipped to deliver a high-quality teaching experience.
3. Shane English School
Shane English School is a well-known institution with 300 schools in 13 countries, including Taiwan. The school has classes both for children and adults.
Since no single teaching method suits all students, the Shane English School provides teachers with a variety of teaching methods to choose from and thus tailor their lessons to each student’s age, level, and location.
4. Joy English
Joy English is an EFL school with more than 500 English schools in Taiwan, China, and Japan. The program has existed for over 35 years and publishes its own course materials to help teachers give the best teaching experience possible.
As both a learning institute and a publisher, Joy English has full control over the design and quality of its teaching materials. In 2018, the Ministry of Culture of Taiwan recommended Joy English’s own magazine “Joy to the World” to elementary school and junior high school children.
5. Teaching Nomad
Teaching Nomad is a recruitment agency that helps teachers find work opportunities in international schools and institutions. The agency is not affiliated with a specific school or program, instead serving as a connection between qualified teachers and international teaching jobs. Services include applying for jobs, assistance with visa processes, and support in the relocation endeavor.
Conclusion
Taiwan offers plenty of opportunities for English teachers from abroad. Not only is it a great way to discover a new country, but teaching English in Taiwan is rewarding to teachers because they can provide valuable language skills that enhance students’ international communication and professional opportunities.
When selecting a teaching program, it is important to consider its accreditation and certification, the quality of instructors, the curriculum and teaching methods, and any real-life reviews.
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