Instructor Q&A: Emily Wong
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Spring 2021
“…online classes open the door to more students, especially ones
who are too busy to leave their countries to study. This means
that we can have an even more diverse class of learners!”
Q. Why did you decide to become
an instructor?
A. I decided to become an ESL instructor
after teaching English in Japan for the
JET Program. It was there when I first
learned what it would be like to work
with students whose culture was
different from mine. Though I loved the
challenge of designing lessons that my
students could enjoy, it was the cultural
exchange that I loved the most.
Q. Could you tell us about
the new online ESL courses DCE
is offering, some of which you
are teaching?
A. We are offering 8-week intermediate
and advanced-level Grammar/Writing
and Speaking/Listening courses online.
They are asynchronous but will be
teacher led with a few virtual sessions.
Each week, students will improve their
academic and non-academic English skills
through engaging lessons and useful
feedback from instructors. The best part
is the interaction with the instructor and
classmates from all over the world!
Q. What type of student will do well
in these courses?
A. Students who are responsible, self-motivated, and eager to meet classmates from all over the world will do great!
Q. What advantages does learning
ESL online offer to students?
A. Busy people have a chance to be a student again! Our classes are designed so that people who are working can study at their own pace throughout the week. Another plus is that students will improve their computer skills, which will benefit them in their academic and professional lives. Lastly, online classes open the door to more students, especially ones who are too busy to leave their countries to study. This means that we can have an even more diverse class of learners!
Q. What is your message to
international students about learning
during the pandemic?
A. Dear students, it is indeed difficult to focus and be motivated while studying online but think of this as an opportunity to broaden your communication and learning skills. Online learning is here to stay, and you will not be alone in this process! You will be supported by your teacher and improving with your classmates!
Q. What do you find to be most
rewarding about being an instructor
right now?
A. During this pandemic, I love the fact that I can still meet with my students over Zoom “face-to-face.” We can still joke and laugh as though we are in the same room. Also, though teaching online has been a huge challenge, I am extremely grateful for my colleagues as they never cease to come up with innovative ways to improve our students’ learning experiences. I have improved my teaching because of them.
Learn more about Online ESL courses.