Privilege and Prejudice in Online English Teaching: Discourses in School-Owned Recruitment Websites
Domingo Ephraim (CELE, Asia University)
Abstract
Numerous studies have analyzed various aspects of ELT to uncover discriminatory employment practices in the field. However, there is a research gap regarding the discourses in school-managed teacher recruitment websites (TRWs), particularly in private online language education (POLE). In this study, I aim to address this gap by investigating how the preferred online English teacher is characterized and what benefits they are promised when visiting these web pages. Using critical discourse analysis, I analyzed the textual elements of 32 TRWs of online English schools in six major Asian markets. In my interpretation of the findings, I reveal how the industry exploits the notions of native-speakerism through varying application requirements, often favoring only a few groups, and compensation policies. I emphasize the benefits of creating equitable employment opportunities and professionalizing the field. I also provide practical strategies for teachers on how to take advantage of the opportunities of digital work while contributing to the attainment of equity.
Research Paper (In person; 25 minutes)
Social Justice Issues
General Interest
About the Presenters
Ephraim V. Domingo is an English teacher from the Philippines. He is a visiting faculty member at Asia University in Tokyo and an online English teacher for a Europe-based online school, from which he found the inspiration to investigate the POLE industry. He is interested in the intersection of digital language work and social justice.
