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What is the English teaching context in Korea?

In the Korean context, many areas of life require English language
proficiency. Growing numbers of business people need English for
communication across the globe.

University students must pass a standard English test to graduate,
no matter what their major of study as schools use many English
study materials. More and more students study overseas to gain
language proficiency.

In other arenas, English has become the international language for
use at inter-Asian NGO gatherings and church workers seek to learn
English for use in missions, international conferences and partnership work.

Private institutes as well as universities and even public schools employ 'native English speakers'
to address the needs of so many language students. Particularly in the private sector, teachers
coming to Korea have a variety of experiences. While some leave with positive memories, some
leave with frustrations due to a lack of understanding between Korean administrators and Western
teachers, large and impersonal classes, different understandings of education, of businesses and
even of communication style.

What is Connexus in this context?
Both students studying English and teachers who come to Korea have important needs. Connexus
seeks to address these needs by promoting education focused on skill-building and functional language,
which has relevance and applicability for the situations students will face.

Connexus classes have no more than six students in order for more participation from students and
space for a relational aspect in the classroom. Both students and teachers benefit from the resulting
friendships, helping to build cross-cultural understanding across divisions.

Connexus staff also has international experience, enabling them to respond in understanding and
openness to issues of communication and teachers' needs. The flexible environment at Connexus
allows freedom to respond to needs of both students and teachers in order to continue creating a
better learning community.

As a place for people to meet and interact, student relationships often extend beyond the classroom.
Often students come to join the staff to make a meal in the 'Community Room' or they might come
early or stay after class to study and visit because they enjoy the atmosphere.

Class discussions give opportunity for reflection and dialogue on various issues, such as politics,
history, personal experiences, and beliefs. These discussions can be transformative not only for
students, but also for the teachers facilitating them.