Category: International Education

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How Do I Get a Job at an International School

Introduction:

Securing a job at an international school can be a rewarding and life-changing experience. It offers the opportunity to broaden your professional horizons, interact with diverse cultures, and potentially earn a competitive salary. If you’re considering taking the plunge into international education, follow these steps to increase your chances of landing that dream job.

1. Research International Schools:

Begin by investigating different international schools worldwide. Look for information on their missions, values, curricula, and accreditations. Dive deep into their websites, social media platforms, and online expat forums to understand the schools’ reputations. Pay attention to school sizes, locations, and faculty demographics to help determine which institutions may be the best fit for you.

2. Update Your Resume/CV:

International schools are looking for highly qualified professionals with relevant degrees in education or the subject they intend to teach. Update and format your resume clearly showcasing your education qualifications, teaching certifications (if required), experiences, and any additional skills like speaking multiple languages or relevant extracurricular activities.

3. Get Qualified:

The most successful candidates are those with internationally recognized teaching qualifications. Depending on the country or region where the school is located, requirements may vary. Research the necessary credentials in your target schools or countries then seek out approved certification programs that meet these criteria.

4. Gain Relevant Experience:

It’s not enough to be academically qualified; international school recruiters also value hands-on experience. If you are new to teaching or switching subject areas, seek opportunities to gain relevant experience before applying internationally – this could mean volunteer work, internships, assistant roles, or part-time positions at local schools.

5. Network with Other Professionals:

Networking is key to finding job openings in international schools since some jobs may not be advertised publicly. Connect with current and former teachers from target schools through LinkedIn or attend education conferences as a delegate. Join international teacher groups on social media and participate in online discussions to develop connections and gain inside knowledge.

6. Prepare for the Interview:

Prepare for interviews by researching typical interview questions and practicing your responses. Familiarize yourself with the school’s culture, educational philosophy, and teaching methodology to demonstrate your commitment during the interview process. Additionally, be prepared to share examples of how you’ve adapted to new environments or worked with diverse student populations.

7. Keep an Open Mind:

International schools are diverse; therefore, flexibility and adaptability are essential traits for a successful educator. Keep an open mind when applying for positions – look beyond your preferred countries or regions as opportunities may arise in unexpected locations.

8. Apply Actively:

Create a list of potential schools, find the relevant contact details, and follow their application procedures diligently. Submit your updated resume, a tailored cover letter highlighting your suitability for each position, and any relevant supporting documents like reference letters or certifications.

In conclusion:

Landing a job at an international school can be a challenging but fulfilling endeavor. By following these steps – researching international schools, updating your resume, acquiring necessary qualifications, gaining experience, networking with professionals in the field, honing your interview skills, staying flexible, and actively applying – you will increase your chances of securing that coveted position at an esteemed institution abroad. Happy job hunting!

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How Music Primes the Brain for Learning

Music has been an integral part of human culture for centuries, and research has shown that it can profoundly affect the brain. In addition, studies have found that music can prime the brain for learning, making it an effective tool for students, teachers, and lifelong learners.

Based on a study, music has been shown to directly impact mood and motivation. For example, listening to upbeat music can boost energy levels and increase learning motivation, while slower and more calming music can help reduce stress and anxiety. Additionally, certain types of music, such as classical music, can help improve attention and focus, making it easier for the brain to process new information. This can be especially useful for students struggling to pay attention in class or when studying.

Aside from these, research has shown that music can help improve memory retention by strengthening neural connections in the brain. Listening to music before studying or taking a test can help prime the brain for learning and make it easier to recall information later. It also shows a positive impact on creativity and problem-solving. Listening to music can help spark new ideas and encourage more abstract thinking, making it a great tool for students and professionals in creative fields.

Moreover, music has a direct impact on emotional intelligence and empathy. Listening to music can help develop emotional intelligence by exposing the brain to a range of emotions, helping to build emotional literacy.

In conclusion, music can prime the brain for learning in several ways. Whether a student, teacher, or lifelong learner, incorporating music into your daily routine can positively impact mood, attention, memory, creativity, and emotional intelligence. So, next time you want to boost your brain power, try putting on some tunes and see what happens!

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5-Minute Film Festival: Videos on Kindness, Empathy, and Connection

The 5-Minute Film Festival is a series of short films that explore kindness, empathy, and connection. The films are all under five minutes long and aim to illustrate how these concepts can be applied in everyday life.

The 5-Minute Film Festival is an organization dedicated to showcasing short films that explore kindness, empathy, and connection. The films are all under five minutes long and aim to illustrate how these concepts can be applied in everyday life. The goal of the festival is to promote these concepts through the power of film and to spark conversation around them.

The 5-Minute Film Festival is an international organization and has been held in over 20 countries. Past festivals have featured films from the United States, United Kingdom, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland. This year’s festival will be held in the United States and will include films from the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The 5-Minute Film Festival is great for exploring kindness, empathy, and connection in a short, accessible format. The films are all well-made and provide an interesting and engaging perspective on these concepts. The festival is open to everyone and is a great way to explore these concepts in a fun and informal setting.   

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Smart Budgeting Tips for International Students in America

As an international student in America, managing finances can be challenging. With the high cost of living in the United States, it’s crucial to budget wisely to avoid financial issues. From housing and food to tuition fees and transportation, there are many expenses that international students need to take into account. That said, here are some smart budgeting tips for international students in America.

1. Set a realistic budget

The first step to smart budgeting is to create a realistic budget that covers all your expenses. Start by recording all your income, including any scholarships, student loans, and income from part-time jobs. Then, make a list of all your expenses, including rent, groceries, textbooks, transportation, and other bills. Compare your income to your expenses and adjust your budget accordingly. Make sure to allocate funds for unexpected expenses, such as medical emergencies or car repairs.

2. Find affordable housing

Housing is often one of the most significant expenses for international students. To save money, consider living off-campus with roommates or finding a student housing program that offers affordable rates. You can also research apartments or rental homes in less expensive areas. Don’t forget to factor in utilities and other fees when calculating housing expenses.

3. Cook your meals

Cooking your meals is a great way to save money on food. Eating out can be expensive, especially if you do it frequently. By cooking at home, you will not only save money, but also have total control over your meals. Plan your meals in advance to help you save time and money on groceries.

4. Use public transportation

Public transportation is often cheaper than owning a car. In many cities, buses and trains are available that can take you to school and other locations. Some schools also offer discounted bus or subway passes for students. Using public transportation will help you save money on gas, car maintenance, and other transportation costs.

5. Look for student discounts

Many businesses, including movie theaters, restaurants, and retail stores, offer discounts for students. Take advantage of these discounts whenever possible to help you save money. Be sure to carry your student ID with you at all times, as many businesses require it to receive discounts.

6. Avoid unnecessary expenses

It’s easy to spend money on things that we don’t need. To avoid unnecessary expenses, ask yourself if you really need something before buying it. Limit your spending on non-essential items such as clothes, gadgets, and entertainment.

These are just a few smart budgeting tips to consider as an international student in America. By setting a realistic budget, finding affordable housing, cooking your meals, using public transportation, looking for student discounts, and avoiding unnecessary expenses, you can save money and avoid financial difficulties. Remember to stay on top of your finances and adjust your budget accordingly as your circumstances change. 

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The Opportunities in Teaching Abroad

As education becomes more globalized, teaching abroad has become an increasingly viable and appealing career option for many educators. The allure of teaching abroad is evident in the number of teachers who choose to do so each year. For those considering a career in education, there are many opportunities available for teaching abroad, and in this article, we will explore some of the benefits and opportunities that exist in this field.

One of the obvious benefits of teaching abroad is the opportunity to experience another culture. For many people, teaching abroad is a chance to immerse themselves in a new and exciting culture that they might not otherwise have the chance to visit. Teaching in a foreign country can be a great way to learn about new customs and traditions, try different foods, and meet new people.

Another benefit of teaching abroad is the chance to develop professional skills. Being a teacher in a foreign country can be quite challenging, and it requires high levels of organization, flexibility, and adaptability. Teachers must learn to work with students from different backgrounds, adjust to new teaching methods and curriculums, and manage cultural differences that may affect teaching and learning styles. The experience of teaching abroad can help teachers develop new skills that can benefit them both personally and professionally.

For those who are looking to further their careers in education, teaching abroad can also offer excellent career opportunities. In many countries, teaching positions are in high demand, and schools are actively recruiting international educators with specialized skills and experience. Many schools also offer professional development opportunities, such as training courses, workshops, and seminars, that can help teachers build their skills and advance their careers.

In addition to these benefits, many teachers find that teaching abroad is a highly rewarding experience. Working with students from different cultures can be a fulfilling, challenging, and inspiring experience that broadens their worldview and deepens their understanding of human diversity. Teachers often report feeling a sense of accomplishment when they see their students grow and develop, and this can be especially gratifying when working with students from different backgrounds.

In conclusion, teaching abroad offers many opportunities for teachers looking to broaden their horizons, develop new skills, and further their careers in education. Whether you’re looking to experience a new culture, enhance your professional skills, or simply want to make a difference in the lives of students, teaching abroad can be an excellent career choice for educators at all levels. With the right training, experience, and mindset, you can turn teaching abroad into a life-changing experience that enhances your personal and professional growth.  

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PISA (The Program for International Student Assessment): Everything You Need to Know

This program assesses 15-year-old students schooling in countries that form part of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.  The evaluated skills include science, math, and reading. Some critiques believe that when the federal government is more immersed in the nation’s school system, there will be an upsurge in education quality and a resultant increase in students’ educational success in the United States.

Initiated by the OECD, an intergovernmental economic organization, the PISA is a study performed to generate comparable data on education outcomes and policies across countries. The study began in 2000 with the objective of assessing the inclusivity and quality of school systems in member and non-member countries. The test is held every three years. Educational experts from around the world set the PISA test.

Unlike conventional exams and tests, the PISA test doesn’t assess students on their memory but tries to assess whether the students can apply the knowledge they’ve gained in primary and secondary education. The test also has an optional section on innovative subjects like financial literacy and collaborative problem-solving. Further, it assesses whether students can explain phenomena through interpretation of text or scientific thinking or solve mathematical problems. The PISA test is taken in the language of instruction that students are familiar with.

Countries generally volunteer to take the PISA test. If making all 15-year-olds in a country take the test isn’t feasible, regions are identified within that country where the test can be conducted. Within those regions, individual schools are selected that are approved by the PISA governing body and assessed using stringent criteria. These schools represent that country’s education system.

The objective of the PISA exam is not to rank the countries that volunteer to participate in the test but to provide a comprehensive analysis of how education systems are performing in the context of preparing their pupils for higher education and subsequent employment. After gathering results from across the globe, experts translate them into data points that are evaluated to score the countries.

If a country scores well, it indicates that not only does it has an efficient education system but an inclusive one, in which pupils from underprivileged and privileged backgrounds perform equally well. Further, the test assesses whether the education system in those countries teaches students enough social and community skills that will enable them to excel holistically as the workforce’s members. The OECD also hopes that the PISA test will help countries learn from each other regarding effective education policies and better their own systems.

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So You Want to Attend Graduate School: The 411 on Grad School Admissions Tests

Applying for admission to professional and graduate schools is no less competitive than college/undergraduate admissions. If you’re planning to pursue a degree in business, law, medicine, or graduate studies, you can bet that one of the essential requirements would be to take a standardized exam.

Although school records and grades from your undergraduate studies will be considered, you might be wondering why your diploma and college transcript might not be enough. This is because your aptitude for learning needs to be compared against the applicants from all over the country and abroad.

Examples of Standardized Exams

Each type of program will require you to take a specific standardized exam. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) for graduate studies, Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) for business school, Law School Admission Test (LSAT) for law school, and Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) for med school.

Each type of test will measure specific abilities and skills needed for the program you’re applying for. The GRE and GMAT measure verbal, analytical, and quantitative abilities. The LSAT measures reading, writing, and logical reasoning, while the MCAT measures the sciences’ mastery.

The GRE and GMAT have similar components (some business schools accept the GRE!), confusing those who intend to take it. To be safe, make sure to check the requirements of the program of the school you wish you apply for.

How to Prepare

To help students prepare for the exams, some schools and learning institutions offer review classes. Not only do they go through the subject matter to be tested on, but the review classes also prepare the students by teaching them practical exam-taking skills.

Some exam takers have seen the benefit of taking formal review classes because it helps them brush up on some knowledge and skillsets that might have become dormant during college. For example, a Journalism graduate might need a thorough review of math concepts in preparation for taking the GMAT.

Independent learners and those who have tight schedules may opt to buy review books to study on their own. Most of these review books contain sample tests to be used for practice.

Exam Scores and Other Requirements

You have to aim to get a high score on the standardized test. Some schools use the scores to filter out which candidates to choose to continue in the admissions process. You can expect that the ivy league schools will only consider applicants with the highest scores.

High scores in the standardized tests will broaden your options for schools. Having a high score may also make you eligible for grants, financial assistance, and scholarships. If you’re one of the late bloomers who had lackluster grades in college, a high score on the standardized test might boost your chances of at least getting admitted. It shows growth in your potential to learn.

Standardized exams, interviews, recommendation letters, and the admissions essay will give schools an idea of how well you will fare in graduate studies. Of course, this is just an approximation because once you are admitted to a school, the more significant challenge would be to complete the degree.

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Have Weighted Grades Outlived Their Usefulness?

The foundational rationale for weighted grades is that the practice provides an incentive for learners to challenge themselves academically. By placing greater value on grades earned in more challenging classes, weighted grades remove a potential disincentive posed by tougher classes—i.e., learners worrying that a lower grade in a tougher class might adversely affect their GPA class rank. Advocates argue that weighted grades deservedly reward learners who take tougher classes, identify higher levels of educational accomplishment, and provide a more fair or balanced system of grading in schools with several educational tracks.

Even with all of its benefits, weighted grades do have many drawbacks, often pointed out by critics.

Critics of weighted grades tend to make the following arguments:

Weighted grades discourage learners from taking certain classes that may be educationally valuable, but that may not present a numerical advantage when calculating GPA and class rank. For example, art and music classes are rarely weighted, so learners may not contemplate art and music classes out of fear that such classes will adversely affect their GPA and class ranking.

Weighted grades are not academically significant unless the grades are based on a single set of learning standards that are assessed consistently from class to class. Unless schools can authenticate that a grade of A in one class represents greater educational accomplishment than an A earned in another class, the utilization of weighted grades can be misleading. For instance, it’s potential that a class labeled “college prep” may be more challenging than a class labeled “honors.”

Weighted grades may act as disincentives, rather than incentives, for learners. While weighted grades may make challenging classes seem less “risky” to learners, it’s also potential that learners, once enrolled in the class, usually won’t work as hard because a lower mark is worth as much as a higher mark in another class. Also, learners enrolled in lower-level classes know that the grading system is assigning their efforts less value. Even if a learner works hard and earns a good grade in a college-prep class, that effort will still be given a lower value than grades earned by learners in higher-level classes.

Weighted grades can devalue certain classes and reinforce cultural divisions within a school. Because both educators and learners know that lower-level classes are given a lower value, the practice of weighting grades reinforces the status associated with higher-level classes and the stigma associated with lower-level classes—for both educators and learners. Consequently, educators may not want to teach lower-level classes, and learners may feel embarrassed or ashamed to take them.

Weighted grades create opportunities for learners to manipulate the grading process. In this view, weighted grades focus learners on superficial outcomes—classmate competitionand higher scores, instead rather then more substantive outcomes, such as mastering new skills, exploring new concepts, learning from failure, or loving the learning process.

What do you think? Have weighted grades outlived their usefulness?

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Using Choral Responses as a Tool for Teaching Multilingual Learners

Choral responses are a  tool for teaching a different language to a class. Choral responses are the oral response to a prompt. In the classroom setting, you might hear a teacher saying phrases like “repeat after me” or “say it with me.” These prompts encourage all students to respond together at the same time.

Benefits of Using Choral Response

One of the benefits of using choral responses is that it provides an opportunity to practice a different language. The learning of a language is enhanced by practicing. Students become comfortable saying words and expressions, which builds their confidence in speaking a different language.  

Choral responses also build engagement in a classroom setting. Choral responses require the participation of the entire class. The teacher has to make sure that all students respond to his or her prompt otherwise, it is not considered a choral response. When a teacher encourages students to speak as a group, it becomes an opportunity to practice without fear of being put on the spot. 

How and When to Use Choral Responses

There is an art to using choral responses while in class. Effectiveness hinges on the entire class saying the words together when prompted. As a teacher, you have to make sure that each student responds to your prompt. If only a few students say the words with you, it means that the others are not engaged.

Choral responses are effective when you are introducing new words or phrases. At this phase, explicit teaching and lecture-style sessions are most effective, especially as students learn about vocabulary, syntax, and spelling. The teacher will read the words first, then prompt the class to say them together. If it’s the first time to encounter a word or a phrase, use prompts like “repeat after me” and “say it with me.”

Do not hesitate to use gestures when addressing the class. Raise your hand to silence the group and drop your hand to signal that it’s time to say the word together.

Another opportunity to use choral prompts is when your class is taking up longer texts like essays, stories, and books. Ask the students to read a few sentences together. This is a good opportunity to check if they are pronouncing the words correctly.

Keep in mind: if you’re asking the class to read a word or phrase together from a book, consider that there will be a few students who are just copying what the others are saying and not reading from the book itself.

Final Thoughts

Choral responses are useful when teaching multilingual learners. These help the students practice the language they are being taught. Limit lecture time to maximize the learning opportunity of each student. The teacher should be mindful of how much time he or she spends talking. Students tend to zone out if they get bored. Use choral responses as an opportunity to practice together as a group.  Promote active engagement by ensuring that all students respond to your prompt.

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How male teachers can help to challenge gender roles in nursery school education

This article was written by Jo Warin

Recent figures show that there is still a large gender gap in recruitment to the teaching profession – only 38% of secondary school teachers are male, and 26% in primaries. In preschools – or nursery – it’s even worse. Here, men make up just 2% of the workforce.

This gender divide can be found all across the globe, and not just in the UK. We even see it in Scandinavian countries which have made gender equality a national priority. In Norway, for example, there has been an ambitious target set to try and have 20% of men working in childcare, with 10% achieved in 2008. But that figure is now falling. The reasons for this are unclear but are likely to be due to persisting and deeply held gendered attitudes.

But to understand what we can learn from the men who do make this unusual career choice, I have been undertaking research in Swedish and UK nurseries. I have also been listening to their ideas about what puts most men off.

I was particularly struck by the story of Craig, an experienced nursery classroom leader in England, who was forced to relocate to a new town.

I used to live in quite a rough area. It wasn’t seen as a manly thing to do. I lost contact with my partner at the time because it wasn’t a socially admired job, and her friends would take the mick. I lost contact with my dad who would have nothing to do with me and questioned my sexuality. It’s one of the biggest reasons I moved away.

When it comes to nursery work, men may also have to confront suspicion from children’s parents about their motives, working hard to establish trust and demonstrate that they are not dangerous to children. Sometimes we get a sharp reminder about society’s strong prejudices against men doing what’s seen as “women’s work”.

For example, Andrea Leadsom, a short lived contender for PM, said it would be “cautious and very sensible” not to make men nannies because the “odds” mean they could be paedophiles.

And it’s not as if these disincentives are compensated for by a good salary either. Starter salaries for nursery workers are £10,000 to £14,000. So given these economic and emotional obstacles, why would any man choose a career caring for young children?

Everyone as equal

A good place to find the answer is a rather unusual English nursery called Oaktrees. It employs five men who work with the three- to four-year-olds, and the two- to three-year-olds. The men I spoke to at this nursery expressed a tremendous enthusiasm for their work and described their pleasure in “making a difference” to children’s lives and witnessing their development.

Breaking down gender norms from a young age. Shutterstock

It was clear their presence was especially helpful in engaging more fathers to come into the nursery and talk with staff. And parents were appreciative of the gender balanced workforce – pointing out that this represents wider society. They also liked how it helps children to understand that “both genders can be carers” and that “everyone is equal in terms of the jobs they can grow up and do”.

The nursery’s management also gave strong support to the male practitioners – and occasionally they had to intervene and explain to suspicious parents the men’s rights and abilities to take on intimate care jobs such as nappy changing.

Changing norms

The men thought they had particular value in helping children engage in outdoor activities and take risks in adventurous play on climbing frames and balancing beams – as they felt their female colleagues were more cautious. However, most of the female staff I spoke to insisted that men did not bring any extra special contribution to the job – but they did very much appreciate the high morale of the gender balanced staff team.

In this way, the men’s presence created a unique opportunity to challenge children’s gender stereotypical ideas. And occasionally the men made a deliberate choice to wear pink, put on a Tutu, or let children plait their hair.

Because childcare is not just a woman’s job. Shutterstock

However, they made an interesting contrast with the Swedish male preschool teachers that I interviewed in an earlier study. The Swedish men were much more sensitive to gender issues, and had received training on this. They were more conscious about the need to counteract young children’s gender stereotypes because it is clearly stated in their early years’ national curriculum.

What all this research shows is that the gender gap does matter. We need to recruit, train and retain more men to care for and educate our youngest children. Because this is one easy way to break down gender stereotypes and work towards a more gender equal society.

The Conversation

Jo Warin, Senior lecturer in Education, Lancaster University

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.