About Me
I have recently focused on providing private English lessons for both children and adults. My teaching approach combines language education with principles from psychology. With my academic background in psychology, I design lessons that help students learn in a way that is meaningful and lasting. My teaching method is to transfer knowledge by creating a space for internalization, where students can truly understand and make sense of what they learn. I believe that learning becomes effective when students are emotionally engaged and feel supported throughout the process. For this reason, I focus on building a genuine connection with each learner and adapting my methods to meet their individual needs.
In my lessons, I move beyond traditional methods and use different techniques to suit each learner’s style. My goal is not only to improve language skills such as speaking, reading, and writing but also to help students develop a positive and lasting relationship with learning.
Teaching Experience
At FMV Işık (2021–2023), I worked with early childhood learners, supporting 5- and 6-year-olds in motor skills and early literacy through art-based lessons in 2021-2022. In 2022-2023, I introduced English to 3-year-olds, led lesson planning, and managed reporting on their emotional, physical, and language development, using five lesson types: theme-based learning, arts and crafts, story time, cooking, and puzzles & mind activities.
At Bilfen Çamlıca Secondary School (July 2020 – August 2021) I taught individual students and whole groups, with responsibilities that included preparing lesson materials, reviewing and outlining lesson objectives, and teaching critical thinking and analysis with a focus on literary techniques. This role developed my skills in lesson preparation, differentiation, and formative assessment for older students.
During my teaching internships (September 2018 – July 2019) at Alibeyköy High School and Private Istanbul College, I supported classroom instruction, collaborated with lead teachers, and helped create engaging and inclusive learning environments that addressed students’ academic, social, and emotional needs.
My earlier positions also contributed directly to my educational practice. As a Book Buyer at Minoa Bookstore (February 2017 – November 2017) I handled inventory, categorized books, registered titles in the system, and assisted customers—experience that strengthened my organizational skills and knowledge of age-appropriate materials. As a Teacher Assistant during the summer program at Private Flora Preschool (June – September 2016), I assisted the head teacher with activities focused on fine and gross motor skills, learned to apply Reggio Emilia–inspired approaches in play-based learning, provided basic health care, observed children’s development, and prepared detailed daily and monthly reports.
Educational Background
I hold a Master of Arts in Industrial and Organizational Psychology (with Thesis) from Istanbul Bilgi University (2023–2025) and a Bachelor of Arts in English Language Teacher Education, with a Minor in Psychology, from the same university (2015–2019). I am fluent in Turkish and English and have advanced proficiency in Russian and Azerbaijani.
Certifications and Professional Development
Throughout my career, I have completed several professional training programs to enhance my teaching practice:
- Level I Training in Experiential Play Therapy, Psikoloji Istanbul Center for Counseling, Training, and Research (2022) – focused on using play as a tool for emotional development.
- Cognitive Support Training (PASS Theory) (2022) – aimed at providing individualized cognitive support.
- Group Leadership Certificate (Basic Level), Bilgi Klinik & Çatı Atölye (2022) – focused on leadership and group management.
- Making the PYP Happen: Implementing Agency – Cat 1, International Baccalaureate (2021) – focused on international education standards.
- Introductory Seminars to Psychoanalysis, Istanbul Psychoanalysis Education, Research, and Development Association (2021).
- Introduction to the Work of Melanie Klein, Institute of Psychoanalysis | British Psychoanalytical Society (2021).
- Terakki Language Teaching (TELT) Certificate, Terakki Foundation (2016).
Volunteer Work
In addition to my professional experience, I have participated in several volunteer projects that focus on children’s education and emotional well-being.
From March to November 2020, I volunteered at the Maya Foundation, contributing to the School Support Program. The program aimed to help children affected by trauma improve their communication skills and academic performance.
In the summer of 2020, I joined the KACUV Summer Language Workshop as a volunteer. This program provided psychosocial support and educational activities for children undergoing cancer treatment. These experiences strengthened my belief that education should address both academic and emotional needs.
Teaching Philosophy
My teaching philosophy is grounded in the idea that learning should be both personal and meaningful. I see education as a process of growth that involves the mind and emotions together. My teaching method is to transfer knowledge through creating a space for internalization, allowing students to connect new information with their own experiences and understanding. By integrating psychological insights into my teaching, I aim to support my students academically, emotionally, and socially. This approach helps learners build confidence, curiosity, and a genuine interest in lifelong learning.
Hello! It's Miss Ece.