"A small eddy in a large river": the first year experiences of Native English-speaking Teachers abroad

Abstract

This paper reports on a study that seeks to understand the lived experiences and stories of six Native English-speaking Teachers (NETs) in their first year of working overseas. Using a narrative inquiry methodology and organizing story fragments around Clandinin & Connelly’s three-dimensional space (2000), the paper reveals how all six teachers struggled with negotiating their personal and professional identities in their first year of teaching overseas. Drawing on reflective journal extracts and interview data we show how these mobile teachers move from experienced teachers in their home country to beginning teachers in their new space. Implications for agencies responsible for overseas teaching schemes, teachers, schools and policy makers are presented along with recommendations for improving mentoring and induction procedures.