Matildita Michelle Salazar Velasco

My approach to teaching is rooted in a rich background and extensive experience. With a Master's degree in English Teaching as a Foreign Language (TEFL) and a C1 level certificate, I draw from diverse teaching practices. Having worked in private high schools and online platforms like 51Talk American Academy and goFluent, I have catered to the needs of children, teenagers, and adult professionals. My teaching philosophy pivots on the belief that English should be taught as an international language, emphasizing a growth mindset, scaffolding, interaction hypothesis, and conversation theory.

In my lessons, whether online or in a classroom setting, I act as a facilitator, incorporating Vygotsky's ZPD theory and Michael Lessard-Clouston's Interaction hypothesis. The shift to online teaching has highlighted the importance of trust-building, acknowledging that students may not immediately connect in the virtual space. Collaborative dialogue serves as a crucial tool in this context, fostering learning and development as a social process.

Recognizing the challenges professionals face in making English learning a priority, I address the potential for it to become a chore by infusing excitement through meaningful learning. I integrate technology as a necessity in language teaching, emphasizing that communication involves both knowing how to communicate and having the desire to do so. Overall, my teaching dynamic is characterized by adaptability, a student-centric approach, and an ongoing commitment to refining and improving my methods to ensure a holistic and effective learning experience.