If you are a teacher or in the industry of teaching, you may be thinking about how you can advance in your career and develop yourself professionally. It can be difficult to fit this around your work and other commitments, but with the IH Online Teacher Training Institute (OTTI), learning becomes easier as you manage your timetable flexibly and are able to seek advice from experienced tutors.
In this blog post, as part of our OTTI series, Peter Timmis, a Director of Studies in the Russian state school system, tells us how the courses he took online with IH helped him progress through his career.
First of all, please tell us which courses you studied with the Online Teacher Training Institute.
IH Certificate in Teaching Business English and the IH Director of Studies Course.
Why did you decide to take the course(s) with International House’s OTTI?
IH courses are well-respected, have a reputation for quality and came highly recommended by several colleagues so when I was looking to improve my skills as a business English teacher I researched the IH Certificate in Teaching Business English course and it seemed to fit my needs perfectly. Later, as I moved into management I knew that completing the IH Director of Studies course would better equip me for the position.
How did you find the process of learning and being taught online?
It was my first experience of online learning and I wasn’t sure what to expect. Happily, the tutors explained everything clearly, provided useful feedback and made the whole process enjoyable.
How did you find the course content?
The courses that I completed were very well structured with a logical flow between units. The information was clear and up-to-date.
How did you feel you benefitted from the experience? Did the course help you to proceed in your career?
I was immediately able to put into practice what had been studied on the course which made me a more confident and effective business English teacher.
Completing the Director of Studies Course certainly prepared me well for educational management giving me a better understanding of the role of director of studies.
The online learning experience was effective and enjoyable and prompted me start an online master’s degree.
Would you recommend the OTTI to a friend or colleague? If so, please tell us why.
I would recommend the OTTI to a friend or colleague as the courses provide practical and relevant information that will instantly enhance your teaching.
Peter started working for International House in 2012 in Karaganda, Kazakhstan where he stayed until 2017. During that time, he worked as an English teacher, assistant senior teacher and senior teacher. Currently, he is working as director of studies in the Russian state school system and studying part time for a master’s degree in Education: Leadership and Management.
