Anthony Halderman, Author of Real International Stories

ES: Thank you Anthony for taking the time to be interviewed by English Spotlight, a new section where those who are interested in TESOL can gain insight from people in the field, and where current teachers can learn more about what others are doing around the world. When did you start teaching English?

AH: 1992.

ES: Why did you decide to become an EFL/ESL teacher?

AH: Fun, and a great way to travel.

ES: Where is the best place you have taught?

AH: Tokyo, Japan.

ES: What do you like about Tokyo?

AH: I loved living in a foreign country: the food, the culture, the people, the lifestyle, everything! I'd like to do it all over again someday.

ES: Did you learn any Japanese?

AH: Yes, I learned some Japanese. I lived in Tokyo for just under four years. I was very functional, but not fluent.

ES: Do you speak any other languages?

AH:No, I don't speak any other languages.

ES: Where do you teach now?

AH: Cuesta College, San Luis Obispo, CA.

ES: How long have you been there?

AH: 7 years.

ES: What is your advice to people interested in teaching EFL/ESL?

AH: Choose a country, city, or location that interests you and decide to teach there. Research it and make as many contacts as possible.

ES: Let's talk about your book, Real International Stories. What is RIS and how is it different from other EFL/ESL textbooks?

AH: Real International Stories is a reading text with student-generated stories. After years of teaching, I've discovered that students really enjoy reading stories that are written by their peers.

ES: Where did you come up with the idea for the textbook?

AH: I like to emphasize writing in my class. I believe that writing is one of the most comprehensive exercises that develop language. As a result, my students started writing stories about first love, adventure, lost friendship, war, first pet, death, etc. Their stories were great to read. So one day I gathered the best ones and sent them to a publisher.

ES: Writing is definitely a good way to develop language skills. Do you stick to essays or do you have your students do other types of writing as well?

AH: I encourage my students to write a lot, but not necessarily in a formal essay format. I like journals because they are freer and more open. Because I don't teach the TOEFL test any longer, I now like to make my classes looser, freer, and more fun. I like games, videos, surveys, songs, etc. Most of my students don't want rigorous academics.

ES: How have your students responded to RIS?

AH: They like it!

ES: You also created a scholarship at Cuesta College called the Halderman Award. Tell us a little about it.

AH: This scholarship awards two students every spring semester $125 each. I started it to motivate students to study hard and stay in school.

ES: What a great idea! Hopefully some other teachers who read this interview will follow your lead. I noticed you have a great photo gallery on your website. Is photography a hobby of yours?

AH: Yes, photography is a hobby of mine. I like to take colorful, landscape photos.

ES: How long have you been taking pictures?

AH: I've been doing it for about 12 years.

ES: You have a photo section dedicated breaks. Do you surf?

AH: Yes, I surf. I love being in the ocean and on the coast.

ES: I lived in Hawaii for two years and regretfully averaged surfing only once per year. Do you have a favorite spot for surfing?

AH: I usually surf on the central coast of California, Morro Bay and Cayucos.

ES: What is one thing you enjoy that you make sure to do everyday?

AH: I try to always have some quality time with my son and get some kind of exercise.

ES: What is one thing you wish you could do everyday?

AH: I'd like the opportunity to write another textbook and build and/or work on another house.

ES: Do you have any ideas in mind for another textbook?

AH: I'd like to write another reading text for another level, beginner or advanced. I like getting my students to write and showcasing their work. Students really enjoy reading work produced by their peers.

ES: Is there anything else you would like to share with our users?

AH: Please visit my web page.

ES: What can people find on your web page?

AH: In addition to info, quizzes, and story submissions on the Real International Stories web page, I also have a faculty page and a Halderman Photograph page.

ES: Where can we get a copy of Real International Stories?

AH: Get a copy here.

ES: Thank you very much for being the first person to be interviewed for English Spotlight.

AH: My pleasure and be sure to check out my book!

People who are interested in Anthony Halderman's EFL/ESL textbook Real International Stories can find out more information here.