We have often heard how education is the key that can open your future and change the world. Teachers can open doors for you, but as a learner it is up to you to enter yourself. To do this, you need a teacher who will not only instruct them on the material, but will unleash their potential, ignite their fire for learning and make learning interesting. This month, we’re shining our Alison Lerner spotlight on Judy Griffiths, a passionate and invested online English teacher.
He spoke about his desire to continue learning and impart his knowledge to his students and how his teachings have enriched his teaching methods. This is his story.
What is your current role?
I work as an ESL teacher – teaching English to foreign learners. I also run a small tutoring company. I mainly teach and teach children between class 1 and class 7.
How did you find out about Alison?
I have always loved academics and was looking for online courses that could enhance my skills and aptitude. A Google search on online courses led me to Alison.
What made you choose to study with Alison?
I have read that online courses and certificates are available and I can join millions of graduates. Those who know me know that I like to study short courses and of course, especially for free. I was drawn to the portal and structure, the way Alison has laid out her modules – each with a preview of what the curriculum is all about and its assessment. All this for free.
Which courses did you take?
I am currently pursuing a total of seven (7) courses and have completed two. I have Diploma in Basic English Grammar and I have Certificate in Grammar and Vocabulary.
How much time did you spend studying per week?
I came to Alison at the start of the pandemic and, being at home, I found I had a lot of time on my hands. I approached my studies like a proper school, so everyday, Monday to Friday. Now though, I dedicate 2 hours a day, 3 times a week.
How did the courses you complete prepare for and help you in your career?
To me ‘help’ is a soft word. “Enabling” is great because Alison has enabled me to be confident. Alison has a philosophy that they don’t just teach you theory. You have interactive videos that put in practicality. You have assessment and comprehension test questions that monitor how much of the material you understand and thus build your confidence. All this enabled me to start my own tutoring company as the curriculum equipped me and ensured that I am fully capable of my career.
What skill or knowledge did you learn throughout the program that you found most useful in your career?
Because Alison not only teaches theory, but gives you practical examples that you can apply to your everyday life, I remembered one such example of one child’s behaviorism in the classroom and the reinforcement that comes with other children’s reactions. I am able to understand and apply my knowledge to my teaching, the way I understand and help my children.
Did you experience any challenges while completing the course?
The first challenge was time management. The second was data – it’s a bit expensive in South Africa, but it’s manageable now and I’ve dedicated a stipulated amount of time and specific amount of time to my studies. Apart from these, there is no other challenge as the Alison courses are simple and for a layman like me- it is not difficult.
Are there any other courses you would like to study through Alison?
There are many courses that I want to do. there is business english courses Entrepreneurship focused, Diploma in Educational PsychologyAnd what’s really close to my heart is Diploma in Special Needs,
What advice can you give to potential Alison learners?
First and foremost, take your courses seriously, as if you are going to Harvard or any other accredited institution. Alison is no exception. Plan your time well. Take your course and assessment seriously and just because it’s free doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try. Alison is there to teach and empower you.
How do you stay motivated while studying?
At its core, I had to remind myself why I was studying and what I was studying for. I am doing this to enhance my skills. When I remembered that, I was good to go. Whatever lay on my lap, I was able to do it because I knew the reason I was doing it.
As we ended our enlightening conversation, she reiterated that we don’t get many things for free, which are good and that will help you. “Use Alison. It’s for you and it’s free. Judy’s passion for teaching and learning is infectious. She is the kind of teacher that every student dreams of. What watches them and wants them to learn, grow, improve and enjoy the process. Alison is great. It is professional and like a tertiary institution which is well known and well known.
If you’re interested in pursuing an online teaching career like Judy’s and don’t know where to start, you can get started with our English exam To assess your level, and then explore our various TEFL courses and guides Here And bring the world into your orbit.
And if you’d like to share your Alison success story with other students, comment below and who knows, we may be shining our learner spotlight on you next.