Teaching in Indonesia is not only about being fluent in English or coming from an English-speaking country. Indonesian students tend to be warm, polite, and value emotional connection with their teachers.

Because of this, the native teachers who succeed in the classroom are not only academically competent, but also able to build genuine connections. Based on Odysee Education’s experience, here are five characteristics of native teachers that Indonesian students appreciate the most.

Read Also: What Is a Native Teacher? Definition and How to Recruit One

Characteristics of Native Teachers That Indonesian Students Like

Based on reports we receive from schools, Indonesian students tend to prefer native teachers who are friendly and open. Here is the list:

1. Friendly

Indonesian students tend to be more open when they feel emotionally safe.

A friendly teacher makes the classroom feel like a welcoming learning space rather than a tense environment. A simple smile can encourage students who are initially afraid to speak to become more confident in trying.

Friendliness also shows that the teacher genuinely cares, not just that they are there to finish the lesson.

Practical Tips in the Classroom:

• Start the class with light small talk such as, “How was your weekend?”
• Call students by their names.
• Appreciate effort, not just results.
• Show positive facial expressions, especially when students make mistakes.

2. Humble

In some cases, the label “native speaker” can create distance if it is not balanced with humility.

Indonesian students highly appreciate teachers who do not feel superior. When teachers show that they are also human and always learning, students feel more equal and comfortable.

Practical Tips in the Classroom:

• Admit when there is a question you need to double-check.
• Learn and use a few Indonesian words like “Terima kasih” (thank you) or “Bagus sekali” (very good).
• Avoid negatively comparing the Indonesian education system with your home country.
• Be open to learning styles that may differ from those in your home country.

3. Easygoing

Many Indonesian students tend to be shy, especially when speaking English.

Teachers who are too formal or rigid can make them feel even more hesitant. An easygoing attitude helps break the ice and makes interaction feel more natural.

However, easygoing does not mean lacking discipline—it means being flexible and emotionally balanced.

Practical Tips in the Classroom:

• Stay calm when the class becomes a little noisy.
• Be flexible if activities need to change because students seem less engaged.
• Use light humor to ease the atmosphere.
• Correct students in a relaxed tone rather than in a judgmental way.

4. Playful

Language learning is an active process. If the class is too serious and monotonous, students can easily lose interest. A playful character makes learning enjoyable, allowing students to engage both emotionally and cognitively.

In Indonesia, especially for children and teenagers, interactive methods are far more effective than one-way lectures.

Practical Tips in the Classroom:

• Use vocabulary games or speaking challenges.
• Organize simple roleplays such as “Ordering Food” or “At the Airport.”
• Use expressive facial expressions and intonation during storytelling.
• Give small rewards such as stickers or class points.

5. Approachable

In Indonesian culture, students often hesitate to ask questions because they are afraid of looking unintelligent. An approachable teacher creates an environment where students feel safe to ask questions and share opinions.

This character plays a major role in building students’ confidence when speaking English.

Practical Tips in the Classroom:

• Actively say that making mistakes is okay.
• Provide dedicated time for Q&A.
• Never laugh at or embarrass students for their mistakes.
• Give personal feedback using supportive language.

Read also: Teaching English in Indonesia for Foreign Teachers

In the end, the native teachers that Indonesian students like most are those who can balance professionalism with warmth.

Language ability is important, but emotional connection is the foundation that makes the learning process effective and memorable.

Interested in teaching in Indonesia? Build your teaching career with Odysee Education and become part of Indonesia’s professional education community.

Odysee Education is an Indonesian education consultant that helps place native teachers in Indonesian schools legally and reliably.

Register with Odysee Education today by sending your latest CV to Careers@odyseegroup.com.

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