Abstract:
I am Elizabeth Elmer with an M.S. in Education. Join me on my transformative journey as a seasoned language professional. Share my evolution from a school setting teaching to becoming an English language coach. We will explore the challenges, successes, and the profound impact on learners, providing valuable insights into the coaching approach. My goal is to guide aspiring learners in enhancing their language proficiency through personalized coaching strategies.
Introduction:
In the context of a global demand for English proficiency, especially in international businesses, I share my personal journey as an English language coach. I highlight the shift from traditional teaching methods to the more personalized strategies of the coaching approach. This article aims to shed light on the role of language coaches and their relevance for individuals striving to improve their English language skills.
Evolution of a Language Coach:
My 52-year professional journey unfolds from teaching in various capacities to embracing language coaching. We'll delve into the shift in pedagogical approaches, incorporating modern teaching methodologies to meet the dynamic needs of learners in our changing 21st century linguistic landscape.
Learning Experience:
I found alignment between the coaching approach and my teaching methods, emphasizing personalized attention, deliberate practice, needs analysis, and autonomy for students. This article underscores the personalized and flexible nature of coaching, focusing on holistic skill development and self-discovery.
Tailoring Approaches to Individual Learners:
Central to my experience was the realization that a one-size-fits-all approach is inadequate for language coaching. An analysis of 24 case studies showcases the effectiveness of personalized coaching in accelerating language acquisition for diverse professionals. Goal-setting, deliberate practice, holistic skill development, and ongoing assessment and feedback were key coaching methods.
Overcoming Challenges and Learning Lessons:
Becoming an English language coach presented challenges, including varying proficiency levels and unfamiliarity with coaching methodologies. I highlight the need for further exploration of coaching methods and the importance of creating a supportive community for learners.
Impact on Learners:
Language coaching positively impacted my students, fostering confidence, communication skills, and a love for English. Case studies highlighted diverse goals, such as preparing for international conferences and improving fluency, achieved through the coaching approach.
Practical Applications for Readers:
I encourage readers to draw connections between my journey and their own language-learning goals and journeys. This article serves as a guide for individuals seeking to enhance their English language proficiency and fluency through personalized coaching.
Conclusion:
This article provides a comprehensive exploration of my journey as an English language coach, emphasizing the benefits of coaching for language learners. By sharing my experiences and insights, the aim is to inspire a shift towards personalized coaching and encourage readers on their path to linguistic excellence. I am providing references so potential coaches become aware of this approach and may begin to incorporate and invite them to contribute to this professional conversation.
References
Blackbyrn, S. (2024, January 5). How to become a language coach? - Coach Foundation. Coach Foundation. https://coachfoundation.com/blog/how-to-become-language-coach/
Charter, P. (2023, September 3). Why I became a language coach - Philip Charter - Medium. Medium. https://englishwritingcoach.medium.com/why-i-became-a-language-coach-49b7e55999d3#:~:text=A%20language%20coach%20guides%20the,continue%20improving%20on%20their%20own.
Elmer, E. & Alpha Delta Kappa Mexico. (n.d.). How I Became a Language Coach and How that can Apply to You [Lecture]. Alpha Delta Kappa Epsilon Chapter Meeting, Mexico City, Mexico. https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/dJcqbNGcE7TqFsl3nQyf0vfrcFpFZFGLp-Wd-89zUBBLFsuwCpgBq9RKNRt88Nj2.sghLw2Gfwwi86Lcy Passcode: Y+sGB16B
Kovács, G. (2021, January 25). Language coaching in the 21st century. EFL Magazine. https://eflmagazine.com/language-coaching-in-the-21st-century/
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Real English With Real Teachers. (2017, July 18). What is Language Coaching? Part 1/2 [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJ1CYQldf8Q
Renán, G. A. (2022, November 22). What is a language coach and why do you need one? Fluent Forever. https://blog.fluent-forever.com/what-is-a-language-coach-and-why-do-you-need-one/
Stewart, D. (2022, November 7). The Five Steps of Great Coaching. Stewart Leadership. Retrieved January 19, 2024, from https://blog.stewartleadership.com/the-five-steps-of-great-coaching
Studieskolen København. (2019, September 11). What is Language Coaching [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6G9IKYa7mnA
What is language Coaching – ILCA Global. (n.d.). https://ilcaglobal.com/what-is-language-coaching/
Why adult learners of English can benefit from coaching | British Council. (n.d.). https://www.britishcouncil.org/voices-magazine/why-adult-learners-english-can-benefit-from-coaching
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