“I Am Not an Expert!" Self-Narrative Study of "Native Speaker" Teacher

Abstract

This paper is my self-narrative exploring my evolving identity as a “native English speaking teacher” (NEST). Using the methods of Czarniawska (2004) I critically examine four key stories in the development of my current foreign teacher identity. These four key stories are then used as a springboard to discuss possible policy implications regarding foreign NESTs in Indonesia. A key element of my stories are a tension between the status of expert sometimes given (or claimed) by NESTs in direct contradiction to my beliefs, values, and personal feelings. I will also explore the role of World Englishes in my development of both a healthy self-identity as a NEST and positive relationships with local students and fellow teachers. Finally, although my story should not be generalized, I will use questions generated by my experience to explore several key policy areas. One key area is need for careful discernment in working with NESTs serving with Christian (or any values/faith based) organizations. A second policy area I will explore relates to the implications of World Englishes concepts for NESTs serving in Indonesia.