To optimally prepare for a TEFL course, start by managing your time and setting a dedicated study schedule. Revisiting grammar concepts will provide a strong foundation. Before the course begins, review any provided pre-course materials to familiarize yourself with the content. Ensure you have all necessary resources and materials at hand. Embrace opportunities to practice public speaking or teaching, even informally. Engaging with online TEFL communities can provide insights and shared experiences. Remember, enthusiasm and openness to learning are your best allies. Lastly, maintain a positive outlook and anticipate the rewarding journey ahead.
Table of Contents
Should I plan a schedule for my TEFL studies?
Should I review English grammar rules before my TEFL course?
Will I get any pre-TEFL course materials?
Will I need any equipment for my TEFL course?
Should I practice public speaking before my TEFL course?
Should I join online TEFL groups?
Should I plan a schedule for my TEFL studies?
Absolutely, planning a schedule for your TEFL studies is crucial. For online courses, flexibility is a perk, but this calls for self-discipline. Determine your study hours, draft a calendar, and set achievable weekly goals. This structured approach ensures you will complete the course within your desired timeframe. Remember, your TEFL journey is a pivotal investment, opening doors to global adventures and careers. Don't let this opportunity diminish due to poor planning. If you have opted for an in-class, intensive format, be ready to prioritize your studies. It might mean fewer social engagements or weekend commitments, but the short-term sacrifice will lead to long-term rewards as an English teacher abroad.
Should I review English grammar rules before my TEFL course?
Yes. While most native English speakers intuitively understand grammar, teaching it is a distinct skill. Teaching English grammar will be a central part of your role as an English teacher, so it is wise to have a strong foundation. Though TEFL courses will delve deep into grammar and its pedagogy, reviewing the basics beforehand can boost your confidence and understanding. It is not about mastering everything pre-course but about equipping yourself with a head start. By familiarizing yourself with English grammar essentials, you will be more prepared to embrace the TEFL training experience and impart knowledge in your future classrooms.
Will I get any pre-TEFL course materials?
You can also get a head start on your training by reviewing any pre-course materials that are available from your provider. Many courses offer some guidelines and reading materials that you can look over in advance to gain confidence in what you will be learning. If your chosen course doesn't provide any pre-course materials or you would like to know more about the subject than you have received, take a look online as there are a huge amount of useful resources out there. You can read articles and blogs, watch YouTube videos and listen to podcasts that cover all sorts of topics relating to your course. Even a small amount of time doing some pre-course research can really help to set you up in knowledge and confidence.
Will I need any equipment for my TEFL course?
Depending on the format of the course, you will probably only need a notebook and a pen to get started, but it is worth checking in advance to ensure you have everything you need. Some in-class courses may require you to bring your own laptop and maybe some stationary or other classroom aids. Make sure you check with the provider and read the small print to avoid any mishaps.
Should I practice public speaking before my TEFL course?
Speaking in front of a group of students can be a scary prospect for some trainees. However, as with grammar, by the time you have your own class to teach you will have learnt all the skills you need to confidently deliver your lessons. However, before the course it can really help to practice speaking in front of an audience, be it your family, friends or work colleagues. Practicing things like voice projection and making eye contact should go some way to reducing the nerves that you might feel when you step into the class on your first day.
Should I join online TEFL groups?
During your pre-course online research you are likely to come across TEFL groups where people share their experiences and give tips and advice for new trainees. By joining these groups you will also find useful reviews of different courses and you might even find someone who you can share your experience with either online or in person. Many of these groups have information on job hunting as well, so you can start to look into where you might want to live and work once you have completed the course.
Finally, just relax!
Try not to be overwhelmed by all the information and contradictory stories you might find online, just stay calm and be genuinely excited by the adventure that awaits you. Yes, a TEFL course is a serious qualification that can open doors to employment all over the world, but it should also be a fun and interesting experience that you will remember for a long time to come. Go into it with a positive and relaxed attitude and you should find that you sail through the training with flying colors.
