Adding a Global Perspective to the Classroom: Meet Firuza

Azerbaijan-based learner Firuza R. has a passion for teaching English. After earning her bachelor’s degree in English language teaching in 2024, she began pursuing a master’s in the methodology and methods of foreign language teaching to support her work as a language instructor working with young students. 

Firuza turned to Coursera to broaden her pedagogical approach in the classroom. She wanted to add a greater global perspective by learning from universities she otherwise wouldn’t have access to. “It provided excellent international insights that enriched my professional growth,” she explained. 

She enrolled in English for Teaching Purposes from the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona and Arizona State University’s TESOL Professional Certificate, among other programs. “My confidence working with students has increased as a result of these courses, particularly when it comes to implementing contemporary teaching techniques,” Firuza said.  

Undertaking additional learning when she was already working through a graduate program took some maneuvering, but Firuza credits Coursera’s flexible scheduling with helping her do both. “It enabled me to effectively balance my professional development alongside my studies,” she said. That dedication has paid off. “I now feel more prepared to make a significant contribution to learning environments and to explore other teaching opportunities with direction and clarity,” she said. 

Firuza spoke with Coursera about how she applied what she learned online to her classrooms and the effect it’s had on her students. 

What have you enjoyed learning on Coursera?

The opportunity to learn from highly qualified instructors from prestigious universities. The courses combined theory with practical applications, which allowed me to immediately implement new strategies in my classroom. I also appreciated the interactive materials, peer discussions, and structured assignments, which made learning engaging and meaningful.

What skills have you developed or strengthened?

I have significantly strengthened my pedagogical skills and knowledge of modern teaching methodologies. I have also improved my ability to design interactive lessons, apply evidence-based strategies, and integrate technology effectively in teaching English to young learners. My confidence in lesson planning, classroom management, and student engagement has grown considerably.

The courses combined theory with practical applications, which allowed me to immediately implement new strategies in my classroom.

Did you face any challenges while learning?

Managing my time between teaching, graduate studies, and completing courses on Coursera was one of the main challenges. I established a structured study routine, set clear priorities, and broke assignments into manageable steps. By staying organized and consistent, I was able to complete each course successfully without feeling overwhelmed.

How did you stay motivated?

I focused on my long-term goal of becoming a more effective educator—and by seeing the immediate impact of my learning on my students.

By staying organized and consistent, I was able to complete each course successfully without feeling overwhelmed.

What kind of impact has learning on Coursera had on you?

My ability to teach English creatively and effectively has significantly improved thanks to Coursera. I'm now more comfortable incorporating digital resources, employing contemporary approaches, and creating classes that actively engage kids. When I used new techniques in my classroom and observed my pupils' enthusiastic responses and observable growth, I understood the impact.

Has anything surprised you during your time learning on Coursera?

The learning community's international diversity and the chance to interact with peers and teachers from other countries pleasantly pleased me! It motivated me to implement creative teaching strategies in my own classroom and expanded my viewpoint. 

What do you hope to do with what you’ve learned? 

I intend to keep developing professionally. My objectives are to improve student learning outcomes, make a significant contribution to learning environments, and assume more specialized or leadership responsibilities in English language instruction.

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Individual experiences and outcomes can vary and Coursera does not guarantee job interviews or job placements upon completion of its courses.