Lifelong Learning Skills in Job Advertisements: The Case of English Language Teaching

Year 2018, Volume: 3 Issue: 1, 27 - 55, 15.03.2018

Tanju Deveci

https://doi.org/10.29250/sead.345524

Abstract

Job
advertisements are normally the first contact between recruiters and job
seekers. Descriptions of the job and individual specifications are key to job
seekers’ decision whether or not to apply. With the abundance of English
language job listings, English language teachers seem to be quite fortunate in opportunities
for landing a job. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that educational
qualifications per se are no longer sufficient; teachers now need other
attributes in order to attract recruiters’ attention. One such is an aptitude
for lifelong learning which is based on complementarity
of skills. Therefore, the
identification of commonly sought lifelong learning skills (alongside
educational qualifications) in job advertisements can give insight into areas
language teachers and teacher training programs need to prioritize. Aiming to affect
this, this research investigated 135 job listings on various job websites
advertising for international positions. Results showed that a bachelor’s
degree, even if in English Language Teaching (ELT), is insufficient for
international hiring and that postgraduate certification has become the norm.
Results also revealed certain themes related to lifelong learning skills
including both those that are student-oriented (i.e. facilitation of learning,
building confidence, assessment and evaluation of learning, critical thinking, and
preparation of students for life), and those that are teacher-centric (i.e.
professional development and engagement in research, technology, interpersonal
communication, course development, time management, and ethics). Results are
discussed, and recommendations are provided to help develop (pre-service)
teachers’ lifelong learning skills.

Keywords

job advertisements, English language teacher, lifelong learning, professional development, qualifications

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