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- PaperELT Journal11 Jun 2026
English teaching online, in politically difficult circumstances
Phyo Wai Tun, Richard Smith
This study documents an expert online English teacher in post-coup Myanmar who successfully adapted to frequent power cuts and poor internet using low-bandwidth tools and flexible strategies. The teacher's approach was driven by a strong sense of care for students, prioritizing relationship-building and emotional support. Findings advocate for teacher education that develops context-sensitive problem-solving skills for crisis-affected settings.
Original abstract
This article explores the practices of an expert online English teacher in the politically difficult context of post-coup Myanmar. While much existing research focuses on the limitations of teaching in such settings, this study documents successful, locally adapted practice. Findings show that the teacher did not rely on advanced technologies but used low-bandwidth tools and flexible strategies to manage regular power cuts and poor internet access. Her teaching was shaped by a strong sense of care for her students, with relationship-building and emotional support seen as essential to learning. At the heart of her approach was a deep understanding of the political and social context, which informed every aspect of her technological and pedagogical decisions. These findings offer practical implications for teacher education in crisis-affected settings, arguing for a shift towards the development of strategic, context-sensitive problem-solving skills.