Interview with a Student

The student (B2+/ Upper Intermediate level) in question is busy doing a 15-week Business English course with the author, a freelance EFL teacher, via a language centre in the Netherlands. This interview will explore the learning experience from the student’s perspective and will also ask for his opinion on issues related to education, teaching and more.

Which activities do you find most beneficial and why?

The most beneficial activities are the grammar explanations and of course the talking. To be able to speak a language properly you need a certain vocabulary and a certain knowledge of grammar rules. Although in every language the grammar rules are not based on logic, most of the time it is possible to define general applicable rules. Daniel has defined clear rules and explanations, so it becomes easier to speak and understand the language. You can have a theoretical knowledge of a language; the bottom-line is, you still have to speak the language to become better. As Daniel is a native speaker, he can correct me and by listening I can increase my vocabulary.

Which do you find most challenging? Please explain.

Definitely to process my thoughts in English. To learn to speak English properly. I have to stop translating Dutch sentences into English. Not only does it take more time, I also need to process the sentences twice; it is an ongoing process and requires a lot of practice.

Which do you enjoy the most and why do you think this is?

I always enjoy the writing assignments, based on the theme of the lesson. It is a good way to apply what I have learned, and I like to write. Every week I try to end up with an A4 without any (red) remarks.

What do you like most about the English language?

I like the sound of the language and the English language has an incredible set of words which can express every thought in detail.

Your teacher opts for a ‘personal approach’ (see https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/personal-approach-daniel-israel/) where discussing personal and relevant topics and latest news, gaining trust and forming a bond is central to the learning experience. What are your thoughts on this method?

I believe it contributes to the learning process. A teacher should create an environment where the student feels safe to make mistakes. The diversity in subjects takes you out of your vocabulary comfort zone; as a result, you are inclined to learn new expressions and vocab.

What is the most effective way for you to remember elements of grammar?

The most effective way is to have general rules which apply to most situations and are (easily) applicable. As a rule of thumb, the rule should consist of a maximum of three sub-rules and with perfect tenses, for example, a timeline drawing helps. In the end, when the rule is part of your system, it can be extended with more sub-rules or exceptions.

On a scale of 1-10 where full immersion (maximum exposure to English all the time) is no 10 and the opposite end of the spectrum is 0, which number would you be? Can you elaborate with reference to your self-study habits?

It was 7, for now I would say 6. We used to have a multi-lingual team and the main language was English. As we are now a Dutch team again, I need to lower my score by 1. Most of the TV series we watch are in English and I like to read English books. The self-study habits … hmm when I cycle home from work, I like to talk to have a conversation with myself (in my head) in English. Before I start doing my homework, I drink tea and listen to a podcast in English.

Which words of advice would you have for those who are considering doing a course to improve their English?

Make it happen! I would always opt for a native speaker and stick to small groups (or private), where you’ll get the attention you need, while ensuring that you immerse yourself in the English language.

Think back to when you learned English at school. What was different about the old methods of teaching?

The old method of teaching was: follow the book as a group. The classes consisted of 20 to 30 students and there were few opportunities to speak English. Further, the discussion topics were already defined in the book, not the latest news for example. As the learning process was according to the average, there was less attention given to the student right across the spectrum.

Can you explain why you are considered a determined learner?

Part of that can be explained by the fact that I strive for perfection. I am aware that it is difficult to achieve, and, also, that perfection is a matter of perspective. Who do I compare myself to? In other words, I want to be better than average. To succeed in doing so, I must learn and study to help me reach my goal.

If you were to think of two lines that are motivational and sum up your general attitude, what would they be?

Aim for the best, be at least above average. I don’t feel like working / learning, exercising, is not a good reason.

Can you briefly describe a book you read or a film you’ve seen that inspired you?

The inspiration did not come from a film or a book, I was inspired by a presentation that Neil Harbisson gave at the SAS forum (a business analytics conference) last year. He was born with a form of colour blindness and can only see in grayscale. In his search to sense colours, doctors attached an antenna to his skull, which allows him to feel and hear colours as audible vibrations in his head. After months of practice, his brain adapted to it and his body “accepted” the new sense. To conclude with a remarkable fact, Neil has in fact given permission to five friends, one on each continent, to send colours (images, videos) directly into his head. I admire the effort and the things he wants to do to overcome his colour blindness. His new way of thinking, the risks involved and the solution in the end; if you are willing to go the extra mile almost anything is possible.

Can you tell us about one person who has had a positive influence on your life and how?

My father. I had a pleasant youth and my parents let me make my decisions and my mistakes. This has given me a sense of confidence, no matter what I do, I will make the right decisions: in general: it will all turn out all right.

If you were the new Minister of Education in your country, which changes to the education system would you push for?

I would push for smaller classes, less overhead or extra manpower to support teachers during their lessons. With these measures teachers should have more attention for individual students and they can focus on what they do best: teaching. Of course, a lot of extra money is required. However, I am a strong believer that good education is the foundation of a thriving society.

Burnouts are a big problem where you live, and teachers suffer a great deal as a result (as do others). If you were made ‘Burnout Minister’ how would you shake things up for the better?

The focus should be on the teaching, a teacher likes to teach and doesn’t want to spend too much time doing other (administrative) work. Next to that, the maximum number of students per class should be limited to 20, to increase the available teacher time per student.