スミス英会話相模原校は成長を続けており、グループレッスンのコーチをする上での課題も増えています。通常“1~3名のグループレッスン”で予約をされている生徒様のレッスンが他の生徒様のキャンセルにより“1名でレッスン”になる、ということは現在ほとんど無くなっています。スミス英会話相模原校では3名でグループレッスンがより一般的です。

今まで“1名でレッスン”の経験が数多くある生徒様が3名のレッスンに慣れるのは簡単ではない時もあります。相模原校は現在少しずつ転換しています。より多くの入会、それは素晴らしいことです！

日本で教える英会話講師として、日本の教育システムや敬語・尊敬語の文化的側面を理解することは重要です。私の仕事の中で大きな課題でもありながら楽しい面は、生徒様の“レッスンの受け方を変えること”です。どういった意味でしょうか？

Smith’s School of English, Sagamihara: English With Multiple Students

As Smith’s School of English Sagamihara continues to grow, so does the challenge of coaching English to multiple students. It is becoming rare for students to get a “lucky man to man English lesson.” A “lucky man to man English lesson” occurs when a group lesson student makes a reservation and the other students cancel, resulting in a private English lesson. These groups of three English students in a class are becoming more common here at Smith’s Sagamihara. Sometimes it isn’t easy for the English students to adjust, since many have gotten used to “lucky man to man English lessons.” We are undergoing a bit of a transition here. More students are joining, and it’s a wonderful thing!

As an English teacher in Japan, it’s important for me to understand the Japanese education system as well as the cultural aspect of honorifics and respect. A very challenging and fun part of my job is “reprogramming” my English students. What does that mean?

Throughout their formal education, Japanese students are usually required to listen to their teachers and avoid asking questions or commenting in class. And of course, the teacher owns the title of “sensei.” So when many of the new English students join my school, they are in that frame of mind. I am not an English teacher. I am a coach of English conversation. English students come to Sagamihara Smith’s to practice their spoken English. It can be a tense situation for new students and those who are not used to taking the initiative to speak. Many of these group English students look at me beforehand to ensure that it is their turn to speak. That is not necessary. I am not an “authority.” I’m not a “teacher/sensei.” I am a coach, a friendly manager of  groups of 1, 2, or 3 English students. One of my biggest challenges is to wean my English students from teacher-dependence. And it is even more challenging for these English students because they are not used to such a classroom environment.

I love it. Success happens every week here in Sagamihara. An English student finally breaks away from teacher-dependence, realizing that he or she can say anything, anytime, without fear of making mistakes. Confidence grows. That is one thing I really love about “teaching” English in Sagamihara. Building confidence in spoken English is my main purpose. Understanding why these groups of English students have a difficult time adjusting is so important for any English teacher in Japan. Learning how to help them overcome their fears requires plenty of empathy. I understand. Don’t be afraid. I’m always ready to welcome anyone for a free trial English lesson and level check! Come see me!

Jim