Interview with TESOL coach Yuta Otake
Yuta Otake
Yuta Otake is currently working in Nukus as a TESOL Coach to support secondary teachers strengthen teacher-training practices and build local language teachers’ English skills and teaching competencies. We asked Yuta a few questions about his background, motivation, and interest in working with teachers in Uzbekistan. He shared his opinions and ideas with us, highlighting his motivation.
"I love meeting passionate teachers because they help me continue to grow" - Yuta Otake
- Prior to coming to Uzbekistan, what educational teaching/teacher training experience(s) did you have abroad or in the United States?
I have taught in New York, Cambodia, Indonesia, Taiwan, and Japan.
2. What motivated you to work in education, either as a teacher or a teacher trainer?
I always loved being at school when I was a student so it was a natural choice to become a teacher. I love schools because they have a beautifully chaotic energy.
3. What do you think is the most important factor or skill for teachers to work toward in their professional development?
“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Maya Angelou.
4. What advice or recommendation would you make to young teachers who are just starting their careers?
Your students might not understand how amazing you are right now, but they will understand and appreciate it one day. Believe that.
5. What curriculum, book, course, or resource would you recommend to English teachers in Uzbekistan to refine or strengthen their pedagogy?
6. What are your personal goal that you hope to accomplish while you are an ESN Coach in Uzbekistan?
I will learn to bake samsa and bread in the tandoor. I also want to learn how to play the dutar and ride a donkey.
7. What is the most interesting/surprising thing you have experienced or learned about Uzbekistan so far?
When I first arrived in Karakalpakstan, I was very surprised because so many people look like my family members in Japan! This creates a challenge for me because everyone thinks I’m from here and talks to me in Karakalpak.
8. What is the most rewarding aspect of being a teacher trainer?
I love meeting passionate teachers because they help me continue to grow.