The
EFL-Law Com Book. The Good, The Bad &
The Shocking.
Robertson, P.
Written
by a practicing attorney in Asia, this
book, unique in the world of TEFL/EFL
teaching, provides a wealth of vital information
for those who wish to enter the world
of international teaching, or even for
those who are already teaching English
as second language, and need some clear
legal guidance.
Twenty chapters cover such topics as how
to become a TEFL teacher, the pitfalls
of using a Recruiter, the Labor Laws of
various Asian countries and how they protect
or don't help teachers with work related
problems,
One
crucial topic delves into the issues of
the TEFL certificates. Whilst some companies
offer legitimate certificates, the book
discusses those companies that are known
to be no more than money making scams
who prey on new teachers into the market.
"The latest deceptive practice
to hit the ESL market is the sudden explosion
of on-line certificates."
The
book examines just who can teach English,
and who is teaching English. "In
South Korea there are indeed Russians
teaching English - they are passed off
as Canadians to the school children..."
One
chapter is devoted to the issue of understanding
contracts. Over 30% of teachers across
Asia report legal problems with contractual
disputes.
Clearly
the word in the title, "...the shocking..."
will come as a revelation to almost all
involved in the industry. Problems encompass
such issues as murder, drugs, racial discrimination,
which are occurring, and which the author
argues are issues that Asian governments
are not doing enough to help foreigners
once problems arise.
The future of TEFL teaching is also commented
upon by Professors David Nunan, Rod Ellis
and Stephen Krashen.
This
topic is one that undoubtedly must appear
as an optional course for anyone going
to teach English as a Second or Foreign
language.
