Teaching in CEGEP: Drumming Up Student Motivation, Crafting Lessons, and Automatic Essay Evaluation – With CEGEP Teacher Nick Walker

CEGEP is a wonderful institution unique to Quebec. Rather than diving straight into university at the tender age of 18, students are able to explore their interests and get a taste of independence. The CEGEP years are a special time for many students, as they are usually one step in childhood, and one in adulthood. It is also a fascinating teaching environment, where oftentimes teachers play a role in this transition. In this episode of Talking TESL, we are joined by Nick Walker, who teaches English at Ahuntsic College. Nick is the recipient of numerous teaching awards and is the creator of the Actively Engaged textbook series. In this interview, he discusses his own teaching trajectory, how to get CEGEP jobs, the challenges and rewarding aspects of the work, and the importance of innovation and reinvention. Music by Nomerodin1