Who will my teachers be at INTO Stirling?

Adam, Economics Teacher

"I enjoy the cultural diversity we experience at INTO. It is important to be able to learn new approaches in a classroom, whether you are a student or a teacher. As for the work environment, it is very energetic and people are incredibly supportive of each other.

Teaching Economics is especially challenging since it changes every year. Old theories are proven wrong by events all the time, which makes it necessary to go back and re-evaluate concepts that you thought were facts. Getting students to understand this and apply it to everyday life is very rewarding. My students benefit from knowing that they can come and talk to me anytime, and if they need extra help with their studies, I am always seeking out case studies to help them relate subjects to real life."

Emma, Psychology Teacher

"I love teaching at INTO because I learn with the students about teaching and learning in various cultures. It is a great teaching atmosphere.

Teaching research methods and psychology is always interesting, especially seeing students' progression throughout the year on their research projects and psychology experiment-based reports. When students start getting a taste for a subject and really progress, that's satisfying. Extra support such as one-to-one sessions, emails and discussions after class are always available."

Ewelina, English Language Teacher

"I completed my studies at the University of Stirling in 2011 and I love the fact that now I can teach at INTO University of Stirling. The best thing about working here is the opportunity to meet many interesting people from all over the world.

I teach English for Academic Purposes to students on Undergraduate Programmes and I like the variety of skills that I need to teach my students. It is not just about grammar and vocabulary, but also teaching students how to write successful essays and give effective presentations. It can be difficult for some students to adjust to a new language and culture. For this reason, I try to build good rapport with my students and make myself available to help them with anything they find difficult or confusing."

Gillian, Academic English Teacher

"The best thing about teaching at INTO is getting the opportunity to meet students from other cultures and to travel through the learning experience together. The learning is a two-way process because as a teacher, I continue to learn so much about other cultures and different perspectives.

I teach Academic English and particularly like doing project work with my classes. It’s great to see the students’ confidence in speaking increase, to see them working closely with their team and to help them engage with others both in and out of the classroom. Although I only work part-time, I am available after class for students to ask questions or talk over issues. I enjoy providing encouragement and support face-to-face or by email."

Lyndsay, English Language Teacher

"The best thing about teaching at INTO for me is how warm and welcoming the atmosphere is. The staff are really friendly and supportive, and it’s nice running into former INTO students on campus as they love to chat and catch up with how they’re doing with their degrees.

What I love most about teaching English is seeing my students become more confident of their abilities to both speak and write. I’ve seen students who have been scared to speak at all in class, who have become confident speakers and presenters by the end of their time at INTO. It makes me feel very proud!

In addition to English, I love providing extra support in how to study and manage your time. University can be overwhelming, especially in a new culture, so we all need a bit of help to set ourselves up for success."

Kevyn, English Language Programme Manager

"I enjoy working with international students as it gives the opportunity to help them on their academic pathway as well as help them settle in to their ‘adopted country’. Teaching English is about communication, so having the opportunity to find out more about the students, their home countries and customs is always an interesting part of the job.

Apart from the contact time in class, we offer conversation classes to our students, where they can meet with students on other pathway programmes and get to know them better in a more informal way. We also arrange guest lectures with the University of Stirling which gives students exposure to the lecture styles they will experience once they progress. Our Academic English field trips involve carrying out surveys and interviews in a controlled setting, in local tourist attractions or on campus."

Sarah, English Language Teacher

"There is such a positive community atmosphere here – both staff and students are happy and willing to help each other out. I like being able to work with people from a variety of countries and backgrounds because we have so much to learn from each other.

I support my students as much as possible as and when they need it. In particular, I incorporate Academic Study Support Sessions during class time at key points during the academic year, such as near assignment deadlines. I always encourage questions in class as the chances are, if you have a question, someone else will have the same question. If you’re not sure, ask!"