Here’s the short answer: not necessarily.
Many language students automatically gravitate towards native-speaking teachers. This isn't so surprising, both because many students have studied with local teachers whose command of the target language was less than perfect, and because people are naturally inclined to work with only the 'real thing'. At Langu, we believe good teachers can come from anywhere, and that the most important factor in choosing a teacher isn't where the teacher is from. Our teachers are both native speakers as well as people who learned the language they teach as a second language. They're all amazing teachers.
For most learners, a teacher who has learned the target language as a second language may actually be beneficial to the student. Think about it: the person has already gone through all the same struggles you’re going through, and has come out the other side.
They know what aspects of the language are difficult or require extra attention, particularly when they can point out how certain grammatical rules or vocabulary are different from your native language in ways that aren’t immediately obvious.
This isn’t to say native teachers necessarily lack this ability, but it’s worth keeping in mind the advantages of studying with a teacher you can communicate with easily and who knows very well the challenges you’re facing. When finding a language teacher - like finding a coach of any kind - the key may be to find one who’s done the exact same thing you’re trying to do.
What I mean by this is that you should always choose a teacher who you feel you have something in common with, rather than choosing based on where they are from. If you’re studying for the IELTS, for example, choose either a native-speaking English teacher who’s become an expert on the IELTS, or choose a teacher who had to take the IELTS him/herself and did very well. Or if you need to improve your business English, find a teacher who has experience with business.
Most importantly, you need to feel engaged – so that language learning isn’t a chore, but rather a rewarding challenge.
This, of course, leads to another thing to keep in mind – you need to speak in the target language! If you gravitate towards teachers who speak your native language, it may be worth considering whether you’re making a strong enough effort to get your mind working in the target language. If you’re using your native language as a crutch, then it may be time to challenge yourself more – either by banning your native language in the classroom or even finding a teacher who doesn’t speak your native language at all.
Now get started! Find the right teacher for you.