First Session Interview – English
Language Teaching
Introduction
Good morning everyone. My name is Dr. Aliakbar Tajik, and I will be your
instructor for English Language Teaching this semester. I have been involved in
teaching and research for many years, focusing on reading comprehension,
educational technology, and the use of artificial intelligence in language
education. My teaching goal is that we learn English together — not just as a
subject, but as a tool for thinking, communicating, and sharing ideas.
Today, I want to know more about you, so I can understand your strengths,
interests, and goals. This interview session is designed to be an informal and
engaging way for me to get to know each of you on a more personal level,
beyond just your academic performance. Your responses will help me tailor our
learning experience to be as effective and enjoyable as possible for everyone in
the class. We aim to foster an environment where you feel comfortable
expressing yourselves and where your individual contributions are valued.
My background in educational technology and AI means I'm particularly
interested in how we can leverage modern tools and methodologies to enhance
language learning. We'll explore various approaches throughout the semester, but
this initial session is about understanding who you are as learners. This is not a
test, but an opportunity for dialogue and mutual understanding.
Individual Questions for Students
Each student will receive one unique question. Please respond as fully as
possible in English. The aim is to encourage thoughtful and detailed responses.
Please take your time to consider the question and articulate your thoughts
clearly. There are no right or wrong answers; the focus is on your personal
perspective and experiences.
1. What is your favorite hobby and how did you start doing it? When
answering this question, consider what truly brings you joy and relaxation
outside of your academic pursuits. Think about the genesis of this hobby:
Was it a childhood interest that evolved? Did a friend or family member
introduce you to it? Was it a conscious choice to seek out a particular
activity? Describe the process of learning and developing skills within your
hobby. What do you find most engaging about it? Does it involve creativity,
physical activity, intellectual challenge, or social interaction? For example, if
your hobby is painting, you might discuss the mediums you use (watercolor,
oil, acrylics), the subjects you enjoy painting, and how you first discovered
your passion for art. If it's hiking, you could talk about the type of terrain
you prefer, the physical and mental benefits you derive, and perhaps a
memorable hike you've undertaken. The goal is to provide a rich narrative
that paints a picture of this important aspect of your life.
2. If you could visit any country in the world, where would you go and why?
This question explores your curiosity about the world and your motivations
for travel. Think beyond just a vacation destination. What aspects of a
country appeal to you? Is it its history, culture, natural landscapes, cuisine,
or perhaps a specific event or tradition? Consider what you hope to learn or
experience by visiting this country. What insights do you anticipate gaining?
Think about the potential impact of such a visit on your worldview. For
instance, visiting Japan might be motivated by its unique blend of ancient
traditions and futuristic technology, its serene gardens, or its renowned
culinary scene. Alternatively, exploring Peru could be driven by the allure of
Machu Picchu, its rich Incan history, and its diverse ecosystems. Elaborate
on the specific reasons that draw you to your chosen destination and what
you envision your experience there to be like.
3. What is the most interesting book you have ever read? This question delves
into your literary tastes and your ability to engage with complex ideas
presented in text. When you say "interesting," what criteria are you using? Is
it a book that challenged your perspective, introduced you to new concepts,
or evoked strong emotions? Describe the plot or subject matter in a way
that makes it understandable to someone who hasn't read it. More
importantly, explain why it captured your interest. What themes did it
explore? What characters resonated with you? Did it change the way you
think about a particular topic or about life in general? For example, if you
choose "Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind" by Yuval Noah Harari, you
might discuss its broad scope, its exploration of human evolution and
societal structures, and how it fundamentally shifted your understanding of
humanity's place in the world.
4. In your opinion, what makes a good teacher? This is a crucial question for
our context. Reflect on your own experiences with educators, both positive
and negative. What qualities and approaches do you believe are essential
for effective teaching? Consider attributes like knowledge, passion,
communication skills, empathy, patience, and adaptability. Think about the
impact a good teacher has on their students' learning and motivation. Does
a good teacher merely impart information, or do they inspire, guide, and
facilitate growth? Consider the role of classroom management, the ability
to explain complex ideas clearly, and the willingness to support students
with diverse learning needs. For instance, a good teacher might be
someone who not only possesses deep subject matter expertise but also
has the ability to make the material relatable and engaging, creating a safe
and encouraging learning environment where students feel empowered to
ask questions and take risks.
5. Do you prefer studying alone or in groups? Why? This question explores
your learning style and your comfort with different collaborative dynamics.
When you study alone, what are the advantages you perceive? Perhaps it's
the ability to focus without distraction, to set your own pace, or to delve
deeply into specific topics. On the other hand, what benefits do you see in
studying in groups? This might include the opportunity to discuss ideas,
gain different perspectives, clarify doubts through peer interaction, or
reinforce learning by explaining concepts to others. Consider situations
where one method might be more effective than the other. For example,
you might prefer to study alone when first encountering a new and complex
topic to build a foundational understanding, but then benefit from group
study to discuss nuances and challenge your initial interpretations.
6. How do you usually spend your weekends? This question is about
understanding your typical routines and how you allocate your time outside
of structured academic hours. Think about a typical weekend. Does it
involve a mix of relaxation, social activities, personal projects, or catching
up on academic work? Are there specific activities you consistently engage
in, such as visiting family, pursuing hobbies, exercising, or engaging in
cultural activities? Consider the balance you strike between rest and
productivity. For example, a weekend might involve a Saturday morning
spent at a local market and a park, followed by an afternoon of reading and
a dinner with friends, while Sunday is dedicated to reviewing notes from the
past week and preparing for the upcoming one.
7. What is your favorite English word, and why do you like it? This question is
a fun way to explore your personal connection with the English language.
It's not just about a word's meaning, but also its sound, its feel, or the
connotations it carries for you. Think about words that you find particularly
beautiful, powerful, or evocative. What is it about the word that resonates
with you? Is it the way it sounds when spoken? Is it its precise meaning, or
perhaps the range of meanings it can convey? Does it remind you of a
specific experience or person? For instance, you might choose the word
"serendipity" because you appreciate its meaning of fortunate accidental
discoveries and its pleasing sound. Or perhaps "ephemeral" appeals to you
for its poetic evocation of fleeting beauty. Explain the personal significance
of your chosen word.
8. Describe a memorable event from your high school years. This question
encourages you to recall and articulate a significant experience from your
past. Think about events that had a lasting impact on you, whether positive
or negative. This could be an academic achievement, a personal challenge
you overcame, a significant social interaction, or even a humorous incident.
Focus on describing the event in detail: what happened, who was involved,
where and when did it occur, and what were your feelings at the time?
Crucially, explain why this event is memorable to you. What did you learn
from it? How did it shape your perspective or your identity? For example, a
memorable event might be participating in a debate competition that you
initially felt unprepared for, but through hard work and teamwork, achieved
success, teaching you the value of perseverance and collaboration.
9. Do you enjoy watching English movies or TV shows? Give examples. This
question explores your engagement with English media and how it
contributes to your language learning or cultural understanding. What
genres do you typically enjoy? What makes a particular movie or TV show
stand out to you? When you watch these, do you focus on understanding
every word, or are you more concerned with the overall plot and message?
Do you use subtitles? If so, in which language? Consider how watching
these shows might have improved your vocabulary, your understanding of
colloquialisms, or your grasp of different accents. For example, you might
mention enjoying British comedies for their unique humor and linguistic
nuances, or American dramas for their exploration of complex social issues
and contemporary language use.
10. If you won a scholarship to study abroad, what would you choose to study?
This question delves into your academic aspirations and your vision for
future learning. Consider a field of study that genuinely excites you and
aligns with your long-term goals. Why is studying this particular subject
abroad particularly appealing? Are there specific institutions, research
opportunities, or cultural contexts that make studying this subject overseas
a unique advantage? Think about how this experience would contribute to
your personal and professional development. For example, you might
choose to study marine biology in Australia due to its unparalleled access
to the Great Barrier Reef and its world-renowned research facilities in the
field. Or you might opt for advanced robotics engineering in Germany,
known for its strong industrial and technological base.
11. What social media platform do you use most and why? This question
provides insight into your digital habits and your reasons for engaging with
specific online communities. Consider the platforms you use regularly.
What is it about the design, features, or content of your preferred platform
that attracts you? Is it for staying connected with friends and family, for
following news and trends, for sharing your own content, or for specific
interest groups? Think about the benefits and drawbacks you perceive from
using this platform. For instance, you might primarily use Instagram for its
visual appeal and ability to share experiences through photos and short
videos, connecting with friends and following artists or travel bloggers,
while also acknowledging the potential for distraction and comparison.
12. What are the benefits and drawbacks of using smartphones in class? This
is a pertinent question in today's educational landscape. Think critically
about the role of smartphones in a learning environment. On the benefit
side, consider how they can be used for quick research, accessing
educational apps, collaborating on projects, or even as tools for interactive
learning activities (e.g., polling, quizzes). On the drawback side, think about
potential distractions (social media, games), the temptation for cheating,
issues of equitable access, and the impact on in-person interaction.
Provide specific examples for both. For instance, a benefit could be using a
translation app for immediate clarification of an unfamiliar word during a
lecture, while a drawback might be students being engrossed in their
phones instead of actively participating in a class discussion.
13. Have you ever used AI tools like ChatGPT? Share your experience. This
question addresses your familiarity with emerging technologies and your
approach to using them for learning or other purposes. Describe your initial
encounter with such tools. What tasks did you use them for? Were you
using them for research, for generating text, for coding assistance, or for
creative exploration? Discuss the outcomes of your interactions. Were they
helpful, accurate, and efficient? Did you find them to be a valuable
resource? Also, consider any limitations or challenges you encountered.
Were there instances where the AI's response was incorrect or unhelpful?
What are your general thoughts on the potential of AI in education? For
example, you might share how you used ChatGPT to brainstorm essay
topics or to help explain a difficult scientific concept, finding it useful for
generating initial ideas but also recognizing the need to critically evaluate
the information provided.
14. Do you think music can help people learn languages? Explain. This
question explores the connection between arts and language acquisition.
Consider the ways in which music might facilitate language learning. This
could include exposure to new vocabulary and grammar through lyrics,
improvement in pronunciation and rhythm through singing along, or simply
making the learning process more enjoyable and engaging. Think about
specific examples of how music can be used for language learning, such as
analyzing song lyrics, identifying common phrases, or understanding
cultural contexts embedded in the music. For instance, you might argue
that listening to popular English songs and trying to understand their lyrics
can be a fun way to learn idiomatic expressions and improve listening
comprehension, even if the songs are not explicitly designed for language
learners.
15. If you were a school principal, what changes would you make? This
question invites you to think about educational leadership and systemic
improvements. Imagine you have the authority to shape a school's
environment and policies. What are the most critical areas that you believe
need reform or enhancement? Consider aspects such as curriculum
development, teaching methodologies, student support services, fostering
a positive school culture, teacher professional development, or resource
allocation. What would be your priorities, and what specific actions would
you take to implement these changes? For example, as a principal, you
might focus on implementing more project-based learning initiatives to
foster critical thinking and collaboration, or on increasing mental health
support services for students to address increasing stress levels.
16. What was your favorite subject at school and why? This question aims to
understand your intellectual interests and what aspects of learning you find
most engaging. Reflect on your academic journey so far. Which subject
consistently sparked your curiosity and motivated you to learn more? What
was it about this subject that appealed to you? Was it the nature of the
content, the way it was taught, the teacher, or the skills it helped you
develop? Elaborate on the specific reasons for your preference. For
instance, if mathematics was your favorite subject, you might explain that
you enjoyed the logical problem-solving aspect, the satisfaction of finding
elegant solutions, and the way it provided a framework for understanding
the world.
17. Do you think reading books is more useful than watching videos? This
question prompts a comparative analysis of different media for learning.
Consider the unique benefits of reading books. This might include the
depth of information, the development of analytical and critical thinking
skills, the enhancement of vocabulary and comprehension, and the ability
to process information at your own pace. Then, consider the advantages of
watching videos, such as visual learning, accessibility, engaging formats,
and the presentation of dynamic content. Can one be definitively said to be
"more useful" than the other, or do they serve different purposes or cater to
different learning styles? Discuss situations where reading might be more
beneficial and others where videos might be preferred. For example, you
might argue that for in-depth academic study and complex analysis, books
are generally more useful, while for quick explanations of practical skills or
for visualizing abstract concepts, videos can be more effective.
18. How do you prepare yourself before an exam? This question explores your
study habits and exam strategies. Describe your typical preparation
process. Does it involve reviewing notes, creating flashcards, practicing
past papers, forming study groups, or seeking help from instructors? What
methods do you find most effective for retaining information and building
confidence? Do you have any specific techniques for managing exam
anxiety or optimizing your performance on the day of the exam? For
instance, you might describe a process that involves first reviewing lecture
notes to get an overview, then creating detailed summaries of key
concepts, followed by working through practice problems or past exam
papers to test your understanding and identify weak areas.
19. Which English skill is more important in your view: speaking or writing?
This question encourages you to consider the practical applications of
language and your priorities in learning. Both speaking and writing are
crucial aspects of English proficiency, but they serve different functions and
require different skill sets. Think about contexts where speaking is
paramount (e.g., conversations, presentations, interviews) and contexts
where writing is essential (e.g., academic essays, professional reports,
emails). What are the unique challenges and rewards associated with
each? Is there a hierarchy of importance in your opinion, or are they equally
vital? Justify your stance with examples of situations where one skill might
be prioritized over the other, or where they are used in tandem. For
example, you might argue that speaking is more immediately important for
daily communication and building relationships, while writing is crucial for
conveying complex ideas accurately and for formal settings.
20. What kind of jobs need strong English skills nowadays? This question
connects language proficiency with career opportunities in the
contemporary job market. Think broadly about industries and professions
that rely heavily on English. Consider roles in international business,
technology, diplomacy, tourism, academia, journalism, and creative fields,
among others. What specific tasks or responsibilities within these jobs
necessitate strong English skills? Are these skills important for
communication with international clients or colleagues, for accessing
global information and research, or for performing specific technical
functions? Provide examples of job titles and explain why English
proficiency is a critical asset for them. For instance, roles like international
sales manager, software developer working in a global team, or a foreign
correspondent for a news agency all require high levels of English
proficiency.
21. If you could change one thing about the education system in Iran, what
would it be? This question invites your critical reflection on the educational
landscape in your country and your ideas for improvement. Think about the
strengths and weaknesses you have observed in the Iranian education
system. What single change do you believe would have the most significant
positive impact on students' learning experiences, teachers' effectiveness,
or the overall quality of education? Consider areas such as curriculum
relevance, teaching methodologies, assessment practices, teacher training,
access to resources, or the emphasis placed on certain subjects or skills.
Explain the rationale behind your proposed change and what you hope to
achieve by implementing it. For example, you might suggest shifting the
focus from rote memorization to critical thinking and problem-solving skills
across all subjects, believing this would better prepare students for the
complexities of the modern world.
22. What is your favorite English song? Why? Similar to the favorite word
question, this explores your personal connection with the English language
through music. Choose a song that you genuinely enjoy and can articulate
reasons for its appeal. Is it the melody, the lyrics, the artist's performance,
or the message the song conveys? How does the song make you feel?
Does it evoke specific memories or emotions? Consider the language itself
within the song: are there particular phrases or expressions that you find
interesting or beautiful? For example, you might choose a song by Adele,
explaining that you appreciate her powerful vocal delivery, the emotional
depth of her lyrics, and how her music has helped you understand nuanced
emotional expression in English.
23. Do you think learning English can improve your future opportunities? This is
a direct question about the perceived value of English language learning.
Reflect on the globalized nature of today's world. In what ways do you
believe proficiency in English can open doors for you? Consider
opportunities in higher education, employment (both domestically and
internationally), access to information and research, cultural exchange, and
personal growth. Think about specific scenarios where English skills might
be a deciding factor in achieving your goals. For instance, you might
explain that strong English skills are essential for pursuing a Master's
degree at many top universities worldwide, for accessing cutting-edge
scientific literature, or for securing a job in a multinational company
operating in Iran.
24. How would you teach English to very young children? This question
assesses your understanding of pedagogical approaches for different age
groups. Teaching young children requires a different set of strategies than
teaching adults. Consider what methods would be most effective for
engaging and educating children who are just beginning their English
language journey. Think about the role of play, songs, stories, visual aids,
and interactive activities. What would be your primary focus: vocabulary
acquisition, basic pronunciation, or creating a positive and fun learning
environment? Describe specific activities or techniques you would employ.
For example, you might suggest using colorful flashcards with simple
words and images, singing action songs that reinforce vocabulary, and
telling short, repetitive stories with clear illustrations.
25. Have you ever given a public speech? How was the experience? This
question explores your comfort with public speaking and your ability to
reflect on performance-related experiences. Describe the context of the
public speech: what was the occasion, what was the topic, and who was
your audience? Detail your preparation process and your feelings leading up
to and during the speech. What were the challenges you faced? Were there
any positive outcomes or aspects of the experience that you found
rewarding? What did you learn from this experience about public speaking,
communication, or yourself? For instance, you might recount giving a
presentation in front of your classmates, initially feeling nervous but finding
confidence as you went along, and receiving positive feedback that
encouraged you to develop this skill further.
26. What are the biggest challenges in learning English in Iran? This question
asks for your insights into the specific obstacles faced by English language
learners in your local context. Think about factors such as the availability of
authentic learning materials, opportunities for real-life practice with native
speakers, teaching methodologies employed in schools, cultural attitudes
towards English, or the perceived relevance of the language. Identify what
you consider to be the most significant hindrances and explain why they
are challenges. For example, you might point to the limited opportunities
for authentic spoken practice outside of formal classes as a major
challenge, or the emphasis on grammar rules over communicative fluency
in some educational settings.
27. Describe your dream classroom. This question allows you to envision an
ideal learning environment that fosters effective English language
acquisition. What elements would be present in your dream classroom?
Consider the physical space (lighting, seating arrangements, resources
available), the atmosphere (welcoming, interactive, collaborative), the
technology used, and the general pedagogical approach. What kind of
interactions would take place between students and the instructor? What
would be the overall feeling of being in this classroom? For example, your
dream classroom might be a flexible space with comfortable seating,
interactive whiteboards, access to a wide range of digital and physical
resources, and a lively atmosphere where students feel encouraged to
engage in open discussions and creative activities.
28. If you could meet a famous person, who would it be and what would you
ask? This question explores your interests in influential figures and your
curiosity about their insights. Choose a famous person, living or deceased,
whose work, ideas, or life you find particularly inspiring or intriguing.
Explain your choice of person. What is it about them that captivates you?
Then, formulate specific questions you would want to ask them. What
knowledge or perspective do you hope to gain from this interaction? Your
questions should reflect your genuine curiosity and your desire to learn
from their experiences or wisdom. For instance, you might choose to meet
a renowned scientist like Marie Curie and ask about her persistence in the
face of adversity and her approach to groundbreaking research.
29. What technology do you think will change education in the next 10 years?
This question prompts you to think about the future of learning and the
potential impact of technological advancements. Consider emerging
technologies and their potential applications in educational settings. This
could include advancements in artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented
reality, personalized learning platforms, big data analytics, or new forms of
digital collaboration. How do you envision these technologies being
integrated into classrooms? What benefits might they offer to students and
educators? What potential challenges or ethical considerations need to be
addressed? For example, you might predict that AI-powered adaptive
learning platforms will become widespread, personalizing the learning
experience for each student by identifying their strengths and weaknesses
and providing tailored content and feedback.
30. What personal quality do you think is most important for a teacher? This
question asks you to reflect on the fundamental characteristics of an
effective educator, focusing on personal attributes rather than just
knowledge or skills. While knowledge is important, what personal quality do
you believe makes the most significant difference in a teacher's ability to
connect with students and facilitate learning? Consider qualities such as
empathy, passion, patience, adaptability, integrity, creativity, or a genuine
love for teaching. Justify your choice, explaining why this particular quality
is so crucial and how it manifests in a teacher's actions and interactions.
For example, you might argue that empathy is the most important quality,
as it allows a teacher to understand students' individual struggles,
motivations, and learning styles, fostering a supportive and inclusive
classroom environment.
Wrap‑up
Thank you for sharing your thoughts today. I learned a lot about your interests
and experiences. This will help me design lessons that suit your needs and
goals. Remember: English learning is a journey. Each class is a step forward, so
let's make this semester meaningful and inspiring for all of us.
Your willingness to engage and share openly is greatly appreciated. This initial
interaction sets a positive tone for our collaborative learning experience. I am
excited to embark on this journey of English language learning with each of you.
Please feel free to approach me with any questions or concerns you may have
throughout the semester. Let us work together to make this a productive and
rewarding experience.