About Me
The Origins of Douglas English Centre
After spending over 20 years living and teaching overseas, I know how challenging it can be to learn new languages and adjust to a new lifestyle. I started teaching English in South Korea for about a year, then lived half of my adult life in Japan. Feeling the need to expand professionally, I completed a Master’s degree in Education in Osaka, and later a Ph.D. degree in New Zealand. Returning to Canada in 2017, I found work in a language centre and a startup technology company. But I wanted to work for myself, so I started Douglas English Centre in 2022.
My Experience Living and Teaching Abroad
South Korea: lived and taught English (EFL) for one year in Seoul.
Japan: lived and taught EFL for 16 years, mostly in the Osaka region.
New Zealand: taught English, supervised IELTS tests, and completed my Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics.
My Education
I have three university degrees from three different countries. Studying overseas made me understand the extra challenges faced when working in unfamiliar environments and cultures. I think this helps me understand students better.
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Ph.D. Applied Linguistics, Victoria University of Wellington. Thesis: ​Assessing English as an International Language.
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M.Sc.Ed. Temple University Japan (Osaka). Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology in Education (TESOL).
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B.A. ​ International Studies, University of Saskatchewan.
Professional Development: Language Testing
I can give expert advice from first-hand knowledge and experience as a language examiner for these high-stakes language exams:
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IELTS English Language test examiner for over 1,000 candidates.
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CLB & PBLA certified ​(Canadian Language Benchmark & Portfolio-Based Language Assessment).
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CELBAN test examiner​ (Canadian English Language Benchmarks Assessment for Nurses)​.
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BULATS ​(Business Language Testing Service)​ Japan test examiner.
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EIKEN STEP ​(English language proficiency)​ test examiner, 1st grade qualification.
Hobbies
Over my life, I have enjoyed a number of non-traditional hobbies to keep me busy and active. After graduating high school, I took up skydiving for several years, finishing as an instructor and expert 'D' license-holder.
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After living in Japan for a few years, I started scuba diving at a number of locations in East and Southeast Asia. Although not active these days, I did earn my PADI Advanced Open Water certificate.
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I also was active (but not very good) in a number of martial arts. I was primarily interested in friendship, fitness, and fighting skills. More recently, I have started swimming as a way to stay healthy.
