• Home
  • About The Book
  • About The Author
  • Bookstore
  • Teaching in Asia Blog
  • Contact
Michael Allan Charles

Volunteer Jobs in Asia

11/16/2015

0 Comments

 
As I mentioned in my last post, if you are past the age of sixty and you still want to teach it becomes more and more difficult to find a job in Asia. I am assuming you want to teach to inspire kids or keep active and/or pay back to the community as opposed to looking for a source of income.  There are lots of volunteer opportunities that will fly you over and provide housing and maybe food in return for your expertise of a lifetime in teaching. The thing you want to avoid is paying money to volunteer somewhere. I would not say these were scams, but they are not valuing your expetiise. 

Robert from Thailand teach that I talked about in a earlier post send me some fabulous links. You can also see what I wrote if you look at the posts on volunteering by pressing a link on the right. Robert's facebook page which is invaluable is: 
 https://www.facebook.com/Thailand-Teach-289975994428274/

He also send me this fabulous line which has hundreds of volunteer opportunities with a description of what they do and volunteer details. Thanks so much Robert. Have a look at this site.
http://volunteerworkthailand.org/

In addition, as if this was not enough, Robert was kind enough to send his information for volunteers which I am sure you will find helpful.

This is what Robert sends his volunteers and I think it is worth reading and considering.


First of all let me say how grateful we and other CBO's are that people like yourself are interested in 
taking an active approach during their time away. 

Thank you for considering Thailand Teach for your volunteering experience in Thailand. We will break 
down what is expected of you at school, basic Thai etiquette, simple vocabulary and phrases etc. 

Our Schools - 

We mainly cater to the Temple / monastery schools. These schools are usually run and managed by the Buddhist 
temples with little or no funding from the government. This restricts the school from hiring foreigners to teach English 
like the other well funded schools all over Thailand. We work closely with couple of schools not only with providing 
volunteers to teach at them but also try our best to help these schools with any infrastructural needs 
( painting, new computers, science lab equipment etc) from the donations we receive. 


English Education in Thailand - 

The level of English is very basic in most schools. May it be primary or high school they are all at a very basic level. 
We usually advice our volunteers to start with talking of their country. There by making students learn and write new 
vocabulary in their books for eg - If you are French you can talk of the big cities in France and compare it with the big 
cities in Thailand, this will help the students to relate to them better ( Paris is like Bangkok etc ). Once you are done with 
talking of your country, language spoken, national bird, national animal, favourite food etc you could review all the data 
the students have written down. 

Always try to use simple words. You could further move on to any topic - opposites, food, animals, birds, my classroom 
weather , adjectives, simple commands ( close the window etc) and so on. Once you select a topic start with the basic 
vocabulary and move to simple sentences for eg - what is this? This is a rubber.  We also suggest looking up some 
simple nursery rhymes in English or  simple songs in your native language in case it is not English eg If you are French 
then "Alou Ete" is an example of a simple song to make kids sing. 

These songs or rhymes could be used to break ice and also to liven up the kids if you feel they look bored or tired with 
the intake of all that you are teaching. Once they are all bubbly with the singing and may be a bit of hand actions or 
dancing with the songs ( do the hookie pokie ) you could get back to teaching. 

Lastly do not fear or get nervous. Just be confident and teach. The students and school teachers will be most delighted 
even if they learn just a few new words from you. 

When you have fun and enjoy the students will enjoy too. 

Basic Thai Etiquette, simple vocabulary and phrases - 

Thai people are very  polite and courteous. It is common practice to remove ones footwear outside before entering a 
room or house. 

Thai people love to joke and are fun loving however one must maintain a bit of formality when you are not very personal 
or good friends with any particular person 

Thai - 

Khrab is used by men and Kha is used by women. 
These words are always added at the end of every sentence, it shows politeness 

Sawadee Khrab / kha  - this is a general greeting, it can be used at any time of the day, 
when you meet a person and also used when you part. 

Sabaii dee mai khrab / kha ? - How are you ? 

Sabaii dee khrab / kha - I am great/ fine. 

Phet kin mai dai khrab / kha - I can not eat spicy food. 

Phet kin dai khrab / kha - I can eat spicy food. 

Phet mai aao khrab / kha - I dont want it spicy. 

Hong nam yoo nai khrab / kha -  where is the washroom? 

Pasa Thai mai khao jai khrab / kha - I dont understand Thai. 

Khob khun mak khrab /kha - Thank you very much. 

Chai khrab / kha - yes 

mai chai khrab / kha - no 

Khrab phom - usually used when someone calls you or when you agree with what someone said. 

Khor thod na khrab / kha - sorry or also used for excuse me or when you want someone to give way 
so you can pass by. 


We are sure you will enjoy your experience volunteering in Amazing Thailand - The land of smiles. 

Always here to guide you. Looking forward to make your volunteering experience a memorable and cherished one. 

Attached is our information. 


All the best, 

Robert and Pooh Newton 

Volunteer Inn - Thailand Teach 

Tel# 66 084 996 8617 - Thailand 
Tel# 416 410 2345 - CANADA 

robert@volunteerinn.net 

facebook.com/pages/Thailand-Teach/289975994428274 
gooverseas.com/volunteer-abroad/thailand/thailand-teach/64848 
volunteerinn.blogspot.ca/ 
volunteeralliance.org/cbo/thailand-teach 

Skype - volunteerresort 
GPS coordinates 14.93976, 100.26341 

Wat Wang Khon - Chom Poo Homestay Soi Sukhaphiban Sing Buri 14 
68 Moo 10, Tambon Pho Chon Kai, Amphoe Bang Rachan, Sing Buri, Thailand 16130 

ลงที่บ้าน วังขรณ์ บ้านชมพู่แฟนฝรั่ง บ้านเลขที่ 68 หมู่ 10 ต โพชนไก่ อ บางระจัน จ สิงห์บุรี 

Intercultural travel and voluntouring programs overseas are an interesting adventure. 
The more involved you are the more incredible the experience is for everyone. 

*** Note: Tropical countries such as ours have heavy rains, violent storms and floods. 
              Be ready for alterations to activities and schedules during these times. *** ​
0 Comments

Volunteer and Paid Positions with "Ideas"

1/8/2015

0 Comments

 
I came across this web site http://www.ideasworld.org/education/  and there are all kinds of jobs listed. I then cut and pasted this statement about ideas. I do not know anything about them. If you have worked or volunteered for them please write in and describe your experience.  It looks like a great starting point to work overseas!
In 1997, IDEAS was founded by a group of innovators who wanted to change the face of traditional cross-cultural work. The vision was to bring more authenticity, creativity and professionalism to the scene. As time went on, more like-minded professionals joined us.Today, IDEAS has many skilled Christian professionals working in a variety of exciting fields! Our projects and programs are located in countries around the world. We offer volunteer and paid positions, both in short-term and long-term opportunities. And we are growing!

We love what we do and we invite you to learn more about IDEAS and how you can join us. You can continue to work in the profession in which you have been educated and trained. Whether you are just starting to explore this big world of ours and seek a brief experience, or you are ready to live the rest of your life overseas, we have a program for you.

YOU can be a part of IDEAS global community of professionals leveraging our skills to restore hope! We invite you to take a small step forward and try our fun, interactive Where in the World Do I Belong? Quiz, or if you are ready to begin the adventure of your life-time, GET STARTED today.



Our Mission: To demonstrate love – serving forgotten and overlooked people by meeting their social, intellectual, physical and spiritual needs.

Our Vision: To see transformed lives in communities of contagious hope.

Our Values:

  • Community formed by intentional relationships is the context in which we collaborate, help, serve and care for others in an environment of grace, love and forgiveness.
  • Authenticity in our identity, professional skills and roles gives us freedom to serve others with credibility and have transformational impact.
  • Partnerships reflect our belief in the value of connectedness, community and combining resources to better serve others.
  • Personal Character drives us to demonstrate uncompromising integrity and wise financial stewardship in all of our organizational activities and in the locations of our Associates where dependability, courage and perseverance are paramount.
  • Cultural Respect is demonstrated by entering as sensitive and respectful learners of both local languages and customs.
  • Creativity and Innovation allows us to be nimble and adaptive to changing situations and opportunities.
  • Life-long Learning considers each person’s skills and development from initial endorsement through their time with the IDEAS. Every person is encouraged to continue to learn and grow through academics, training, and developmental activities.
Our methodology centers on assessing community and professional opportunities and creating transformational projects and businesses which meet tangible needs. These projects allow IDEAS Associates to integrate their faith in their lives and work. It is our intent and hope that the relationships formed between our Associates and the communities they serve will lead to life transformations.

Our methodology is a proven and powerful approach which responds to human need with innovation and compassion. This multi-step process has been successfully launched within communities in more than 13 countries:

1. Assess needs in partnership with local community.
2. Develop projects which are valued by local community.
3. Implement projects and build on relationships.
4. Serve and work with excellence, allowing individual lives and communities to be transformed socially, intellectually, physically and spiritually.

Our methodology is applied to five project categories: Agriculture, Business and IT, Community Development, Education, and Healthcare and Wellness.

0 Comments

Asian Society

9/30/2014

0 Comments

 
http://asiasociety.org/
This is a great site because it deals with all of the critical issues that are important to westerners who are considering teaching in Asia.  The site consists of video, blog entries, all kinds of neat educational stuff and virtually all of the historical, political, and social information you need to make informed decisions. 

If you go to the bottom of any page on the blog and if you are a western teacher reading this site, I highly recommend you click on education and careers. There are some neat internship opportunities as well as full time jobs. I think you will be stimulated by the video below which has to stimulate your desire to teach in Asia.
Dr Trent video My HUnger for an Education
Picture
0 Comments

Volunteering in Thailand 2

9/27/2014

0 Comments

 
Isn't it nice when you read something that makes you excited that actually turns out to be true!  Thank you Farzaan for supporting Robert's volunteer opportunity we featured on  on September 16th
Farzaan Merchan said:
"Thailand Teach -
I met Robert Newton through one of the groups of Facebook for teachers. I use to keep pestering him about coming and volunteering for him after I get a job in Thailand. He is a wonderful human being, very down to Earth and giving. Robert is in to providing volunteers to teach at the schools they are connected with. These schools are often under funded being in the rural area however the kids at the schools are really bright and eager to learn. I have added the link to the Facebook page of Thailand Teach-

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Thailand-Teach/289975994428274
Picture
If you wish to make a difference then do try to get in touch with Robert and volunteer whenever it suits your schedule. I say so because I have taught at these schools and when you see kids eager to learn but the school can not afford a qualified English teacher due to lack of funding, it does touch you within. I personally hope to volunteer more often, finding a balance between my job and volunteering is what am working on."

Above from portion of Farzaan Merchant Blog
http://traintillyoudrop.jukaado.com/2014/01/jukaado-is-martial-art-but-jukaado-is.html#comment-form
0 Comments

Volunteering in Thailand

9/16/2014

2 Comments

 
I got this letter to-day from Robert and I would like to share it with you because it gives you details about how you can volunteer in Thailand. I have lived and worked in Thailand for at least three years and I know it is a great country. If you write me I can give you lots of reasons to work or volunteer in Thailand . Here is Robert's letter verbatim. If you have questions or want to volunteer please talk to Robert directly since I  do not know him


 Dear Mr. Charles,

I see you put together first class trips where teachers stay in higher end hotels.

As you have been to Thailand you understand the respect elders are given here and the
need for English teaching in the less fortunate areas of Thailand.

Please consider visiting us on your next trip to view our facility. 


Would like to offer you the ability to contact us directly in the event any teacher, student or group
would be interested to spend time in Thailand.

We have been recognized by our Provincial Education Department
 http://www.secondary5.obec.go.th/sec5/show_news.php?article_id=85

We are looking for people who truly want to share the gift of their time and talent. 

As a Community based operation (CBO) we save volunteers agency commissions, program 
administration and other service fees allowing more Volunteers’ to live the experience.

Volunteer programs need people with the desire of sharing their ideas knowledge and personal 
experiences with others while discovering the world we all share.

http://volunteeralliance.org/users/thailand-teach

Volunteer programs and accommodation affordability explained:

- Direct communication to the people interested in volunteering
- No agency commission, administration or service fees
- Word of mouth advertising and referrals
- Searching out quality low cost services and free programs
- Operating a 100% volunteer based, family run venture
- Assistance from teachers, students and local families 
- International airfare, Visa, travel insurance is not included
- Travel and tours not listed paid by the volunteers
- Visiting volunteers assistance in daily upkeep activities (optional)
- Fundraising and donations contribute to advertised promotions 


Fees include air-conditioned room with raised bed, internet access, TV, bi-weekly room cleaning, 
private/shared kitchen & washrooms, volunteer placement, two daily meals, transportation 
to volunteer site, security deposits, processing and registration. 

Hoping you will let us know if there are any charges from your side for people who are interested 
in volunteerism overseas. 

Running promotions in the hope people with limited resources also have the opportunity
to volunteer.

http://cgi.ebay.ca/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=280819069334&ssPageName=STRK:MESE:IT

We look to be as reasonable as possible in support of volunteers in Thailand while providing high quality
western style accommodations. 



All the best, Robert and Pooh Newton Thailand Teach / Volunteer Inn 68 M. 10 T. Phochonkai A. Bang Rachan J. Singburi Thailand 16130 Tel# 66 084 996 8617 - Thailand Tel# 416 410 2345 - CANADA robert@volunteerinn.net facebook.com/pages/Thailand-Teach/289975994428274 volunteeralliance.org/users/thailand-teach


2 Comments

    Categories

    All
    Cultural Differences
    International Teaching
    Interview
    JIan Ghomesi
    Malaysia
    Myanmar
    Phillipines
    Practical Details
    Principal In Asia
    Resume
    Singapore
    Teaching Jobs In Asia
    Teach In Thailand
    Thailand
    Vietnam
    Volunteer Teaching
    Where To Buy Book
    Where To Teach
    Writing A Novel

    Author

    Michael Allan Charles is the first time author of It All Started In Mandalay

    Archives

    October 2015
    September 2015
    July 2015
    June 2015
    May 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015
    December 2014
    November 2014
    October 2014
    September 2014

    RSS Feed

    Picture
    Buy Here
Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates.