Dave Sperling is an American educator, technologist, and entrepreneur best known as the founder of Dave’s ESL Cafe, one of the most influential online communities in the world of English language teaching. Since its creation in 1995, the website has become a cornerstone for ESL teachers and learners alike—offering job boards, teaching resources, grammar lessons, and lively discussion forums that have connected millions of educators across the globe.
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Before launching the site, Sperling earned a degree in linguistics . His early teaching experiences in Asia—particularly in Japan and South Korea—inspired him to create an online meeting place where teachers could share advice, find work opportunities, and exchange stories about life abroad. What began as a small side project soon grew into a vital hub that shaped the digital landscape of English language teaching.
Dave’s ESL Cafe
Long before social media or professional networks like LinkedIn, Dave’s ESL Cafe gave teachers an online identity and community. It provided resources for lesson planning, grammar practice, and student engagement, while its international job board became an essential platform for both new and experienced educators seeking work around the world. Sperling’s vision bridged the gap between traditional classroom teaching and the emerging online learning world—helping countless teachers build careers and make cross-cultural connections.
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Beyond his pioneering work with the website, Dave Sperling has been a frequent speaker and consultant in the fields of education, technology, and online community building. He has shared insights at universities and conferences on topics such as digital literacy, the evolution of ESL education, and the power of online networking in shaping global careers.
Three decades after its launch, Dave’s ESL Cafe remains a touchstone in the ESL community—a testament to Sperling’s innovative spirit and enduring commitment to connecting teachers and learners across borders. His work continues to inspire educators to embrace technology, foster community, and see teaching not just as a profession, but as a global adventure.
BTW, there was no hyper inflation in Japan in the 80s 🙂
http://johnpilger.com/videos/japan-behind-the-mask
