Hi Inteach,
Thank you for the answer.
I really would like to understand the “phenomenon” of no Callan schools in France.
But as you’re saying, one just needs to try and see what happens. And now, with my CELT course I learnt the Communicative Method, which is quite helpful, too and opened my eyes to other aspects of teaching. Although I would prefer teaching Callan (I still think this one has many advantages) I’m open to all kind of other teaching methods if they’re efficient.
I learnt the Callan method in one of the Callan schools in Poland. Before, I used to use my own traditional method to teach English and French in Poland (now, with Callan and CELT I can see all the weaknesses of the latter ;-).
It was interesting to read about your free lessons. I think it was indeed a good way to start off, but from my experience, learners respect you more when you charge for the lesson ;-).
I had a similar experience as you did with the poster in the Polish shop. I also put one in 3 Polish shops, here in Ireland (in Cork). The success was great and I was teaching Callan for almost 2 years. I had to stop as my regular work required a lot of travelling so I wasn’t able to teach on regular basis.
Do I understand well that you are Polish and you have your Callan school in England?
Hi Inteach, I think it’s a ‘phenomenon’ that there actually are Callan schools outside of London. There must be a reason why in Germany which by far the largest ESL market in Europe there are just 4 schools that use the Callan Method. If the Callan Method were indeed effective and successful then surely more than 4 German schools would have adopted it after decades of its existence. Also, doesn’t it strike you as odd that in the United States there are just two Callan schools? And why does Wikipedia make no mention whatsoever of the Callan Method?
The Callan Method works best in countries where people are used to be governed by an authoritative system with little personal freedom. Former socialist or communist countries are the ideal market place for the Callan Method. Here is a good quote regarding the Callan Method I found on the Internet: “The Callan Method is a product of its age, and since it has never been significantly updated or revised, will ultimately become a victim of its age.” [YSaerTTEW443543]
TOEIC short conversations: A customer pays cash in a store[YSaerTTEW443543]
Hi Mariados, and thanks for your comments about the Callan Method.
Have you opened a school using the Callan Method? What was your experience??
I am thinking of doing the same here in Spain, and would be very interested in your insights.
Thanks!
Christopher
Hi Christopher,
I haven’t opened any school in France. I decided to continue within my main professional area which is international sales in IT.
Thus I cannot share any experience on the subject. I wish you good luck!
BR,
Maria