In countries that spend thousands of dollars in English classes such as South Korea, only native speakers are given a work permit to teach their citizens. But although these governments have strict regulations on English teachers, the reality is, many of their citizens don't care whether their teacher is from the US, the UK, New Zealand, or Australia.
In fact, the Philippines -- a country whose first language is not English -- is a favorite destination of many South Koreans to learn the English language. Some students even live in the country for several years.
If this isn't enough to prove the inclination towards non-native speakers, just look at the number of e-learning companies in the Philippines. One look at a job marketplace and you'll see that these companies have a diverse clientele, from Middle Easterns to Europeans.
While this is true, let's not forget that non-native speakers have inherent qualities that they can use to be effective teachers. For instance, having been students of the English language once, they can empathize with their students. Therefore, they understand their students' weaknesses and can devise effective lessons.
Now back to the question, should non-native speakers be allowed to teach English?
I say why not? Aside from the language, there are also others to consider such as teaching skills.
But if you are a non-native speaker who wants to teach English, you must have excellent English skills. Check your grammar and pronunciation, and make sure that they abide by standard-bearers such as American and British English.
Let's face it. English has spread in basically all corners of the world, which in the process has spawned different varieties or dialects. But only a few of them are "standard English." All the rest fall under the "non-standard" category.
Part 1 here!
