IGlobal Undergraduate Teacher FAQs
Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the role of an IGlobal undergraduate teacher.
Do I need to be an education major to join IGlobal?
No, IGlobal is open to students from all majors and colleges. While many participants are aspiring educators, the program offers a range of valuable skills that are applicable across various fields of study and areas of interest.Do I need previous teaching experience to participate?
Not at all! IGlobal is designed as an early, experimental teaching practicum. We provide full training and peer mentorship to help you feel more confident and comfortable in the classroom.How much time does IGlobal take each week?
You can expect to spend approximately 3–4 hours per week on IGlobal:
1 hour in your weekly pod meeting
1–2 hours preparing lessons
1 hour leading a live Zoom session with students
There are also exciting opportunities to deepen your involvement through undergraduate research and leadership roles if you're interested!
When do the sessions take place? I have quite a busy schedule.
A lot of our current teachers also have busy schedules! IGlobal runs multiple pods at different times, giving you a variety of opportunities to teach. Additionally, you and your pod set up your own weekly planning meeting time to accommodate everyone!Whom will I be teaching?
You will be teaching a pod of international middle school students. iGlobal typically includes participants from over 20 countries, including Russia, France, China, Vietnam, Chile, and Argentina. These students are enrolled in the program by their teachers to engage with global sustainability topics and to enhance their English communication skills.
The program provides a relaxed yet structured environment, comparable to a club setting. The students are highly curious, enthusiastic, and eager to interact with university students in meaningful and engaging ways.
I am not pursuing middle grades education, would it still be valuable for me?
Absolutely. IGlobal offers valuable opportunities to build confidence in teaching, develop lesson planning skills, engage in co-teaching, and gain experience with online instructional tools that can be applied in future classrooms or professional settings. Additionally, for those pursuing a bilingual or ESL endorsement, the program provides meaningful practice working with students who are often learning English as a second language.What if I'm nervous about teaching over Zoom?
That is completely understandable. Many of our teachers begin the program feeling nervous but ultimately find the experience highly rewarding. We provide training in virtual tools, offer structured weekly guidance, and support you throughout the entire program. Each pod includes experienced teachers, as well as program coordinators to assist and mentor you along the way.Can I stay involved beyond the fall semester?
Absolutely. Many students choose to return for multiple semesters, often taking on increased leadership responsibilities within their pods. Furthermore, you may participate in additional programs offered by the Office of International Programs to continue engaging with students from around the world.Do I need to speak another language to join IGlobal?
No, all instruction is conducted in English. While many of our international middle school students are linguistically diverse, English serves as the common language for all sessions. However, proficiency in a second language is an asset, and we encourage you to inform us if you possess additional language skills.What technology do I need to participate in IGlobal?
All teachers will need a computer with internet access, a webcam, and a microphone. All sessions will be conducted via Zoom, and we will utilize user-friendly, free online tools such as Canva and Google Slides.How are pods assigned, and can I choose with whom I teach?
Pods are assigned based on the availability of both the teachers and the participating schools. While we make every effort to accommodate requests to teach alongside specific individuals, such arrangements are dependent on shared availability and cannot be guaranteed.Can I still do IGlobal while I have other teaching practicums?
Absolutely. Many of our teachers are juniors and seniors currently completing their teaching practicums.How are lessons structured, do I have to create lesson plans from scratch?
Each lesson is connected to an overarching theme, and the iGlobal program coordinators will provide a general outline that includes suggested materials and templates to support your planning. You will collaborate with your pod to personalize and adapt the lesson to suit the specific needs of your student group, as each pod is unique. Typically, a lesson includes a weekly warm-up, a review of the previous session, two main activities, a reflection component, and a closing segment.What makes IGlobal different from other education experiences?
IGlobal is a fully virtual, globally collaborative program centered on authentic teaching experiences rather than mere observation. Teachers will develop, deliver, and reflect on lessons while engaging with diverse cultures and navigating different time zones. This immersive and innovative program offers a unique opportunity unparalleled in the undergraduate experience.If you have any other questions about being a part of the IGlobal undergraduate teaching team, please contact Dr. Jacob Neal Minniear at jminni3@illinois.edu.