Ian Springham
Bio:
As a seasoned TEFL instructor with over a decade of experience, I've helped students from diverse backgrounds achieve their English language goals. My expertise spans IELTS and Cambridge exam preparation, Business English, and Academic English. I've taught at language schools in Malta and the UK, and I've been delivering online courses since 2018. With a Trinity CertTESOL and a background in IT, I bring a blend of traditional teaching methods and modern technology to my lessons.
My teaching methodology:
My teaching background:
I've been teaching English as a foreign language for over a decade, working with a diverse range of students across multiple countries and online platforms. My experience includes: Adult learners: Taught general and specialized English courses at language schools in Malta and the UK since 2013. Business professionals: Delivered tailored Business English courses, focusing on communication skills, presentations, and industry-specific vocabulary. University students: Tutored Master's degree candidates at the University of Malta, supporting their academic writing and research skills. Exam preparation: Specialized in IELTS and Cambridge exam preparation, helping students achieve their target scores. Online teaching: Since 2018, I've been primarily teaching online, adapting my methods to excel in virtual classrooms. Group and individual instruction: Experienced in both classroom settings and one-on-one tutoring.
My background outside of teaching:
Beyond my language teaching experience, I bring a diverse skill set that enriches my lessons and benefits my students: Technology expertise: With a strong background in IT, including web design and database management, I integrate cutting-edge tools into my lessons. This tech-savvy approach ensures engaging online classes and helps students develop digital literacy alongside language skills. Business acumen: My experience as a self-employed consultant has given me valuable insights into the corporate world. This knowledge is particularly beneficial for Business English students, as I can provide real-world context and industry-specific language. Creative skills: As an abstract expressionist artist, I bring creativity to my teaching methods. This artistic perspective helps in developing unique, memorable ways to explain complex language concepts.