What are the differences between a
(NET) Native English Teacher and a
(JET) Japanese Exchange and Teaching program member and an
(ALT) Assistant English Teacher?
Experience and Teaching Ability are Different
The first obvious difference is experience. NETs are hired in Japan based on their ability to handle a classroom of 40 students. Many have advanced degrees, certificates in TEFL, and hold teaching certificates in their home countries. NETs design curriculum, grade students, and give tests. NETs are self-sufficient and are expected to maintain discipline in a classroom. NETs are often required to teach independently. NETs know what to expect in a classroom.
JETs can hold an undergraduate degree in any area. JETs are hired outside of Japan and may or may not have any Japanese language ability or teaching experience. JETs are categorized as Assistant English Teachers (ALTs) to a Japanese Teacher of English (JTE). They are hired to assist Japanese teachers of English. JETs are often given the responsibility to read a text like a human tape recorder. JETs are often surprised at the low quality of English education in Japan and may go through the patterns of anxiety and depression of culture shock.
Dedication is Different
All good teachers are dedicated to their jobs and their students, but NETs are also dedicated to living in Japan for the long term. Many are married and have children of their own. Many have been here for over ten years.
JETs mostly live in Japan for the short-term, enjoying the chance to make money to pay off college loans or travel in Asia. A typical conversation with a JET teacher or the supervisor of a JET teacher will tell you much about his or her focus in Japan.
Salaries are Different
NETs are currently paid less than JETs. Yes, you read that correctly. Even with more experience and dedication, 21-year-old recent college graduates are paid more than 40-year-old qualified teachers. The Japanese government subsidizes the imbalance by paying for JET plane flights, settling allowances and city taxes.
The Mindsets are Different
Where is home?
- Ask a NET where home is and he or she is apt to say, “Here in Japan.”
- Ask a JET and he or she is apt to say, “America or England.”
What do you do in your free time?
- Ask a NET and the answer may easily be, “Teaching private students” or “Taking care of my children” or “Staying home with my family.”
- Ask a JET and the answer may easily be, “At a bar or concert hall enjoying life.”
What is your career goal?
- Ask a NET and the he or she may reveal, “To live and teach English in Japan.”
- Ask a JET he or she may reveal, “A keen interest in traveling or law or even medicine.”
Conclusions
We are not saying that NETs are better teachers than JETs. Indeed many JETs have become excellent NETs after three years experience in the JET program. We are saying that experience should be valued more highly by the Osaka Fu Board of Education. Students learn more from teachers with more than five years of experience. Good experienced NET teachers should be offered more incentives to stay in their jobs. Good JET teachers should be encouraged to stay in Japan and join a well-paid NET system.