When choosing a TEFL certification course, it is essential to identify courses that adhere to or surpass international benchmarks, typically comprising at least 100 hours of coursework and six hours of practical experience. Ensure the course is externally accredited. Given the diverse options on the market, opt for established TEFL providers known for their high-quality training. Additionally, consider courses that provide robust job assistance, paving the way for a fruitful EFL teaching career abroad.
Table of Contents
What should I look for when choosing a TEFL course?
How long should an online TEFL course be?
What are the benefits of an in-class TEFL course?
What are the key points to consider when choosing a TEFL course?
What should I look for when choosing a TEFL course?
The overall length of the course is a good place to start. There are many providers who offer short format online courses of 40 hours or even less, as well as in-class courses that can be completed in one weekend visit. Whilst these courses will give you an introduction to EFL teaching, they are unlikely to provide enough depth to satisfy the majority of employers. It is worth noting that most English language teaching jobs will stipulate a minimum of 100 hours of instruction. Unless you are simply looking for an insight into language teaching or are planning to work in a voluntary capacity, these courses are probably not for you.
How long should an online TEFL course be?
Online courses that include 100 or 120 hours of instruction are a good option for many people as they are generally affordable and should provide a solid grounding in areas such as teaching methodologies, classroom management and grammar structures. If you choose this option you should look for a course that is designed to be as practically focused as possible. For example, ITTT's 120-hour TEFL certificate course with tutor & videos provides all the theoretical knowledge required by a novice teacher, as well as a selection of videos that includes real teachers delivering lessons in a genuine classroom environment. A course such as this also requires the completion of multiple lesson plans that are submitted to a professional teacher trainer for assessment.
What are the benefits of an in-class TEFL course?
In-class TEFL courses offer distinct advantages for aspiring EFL teachers. Key benefits include:
- Real-world Experience: Gain hands-on teaching practice with genuine English language learners.
- Boosted Confidence: Practicing in a controlled setting readies you for your own classroom.
- Pedagogical Depth: Beyond basics, dive into nuanced teaching methodologies.
- Versatility: Equip yourself with skills to teach all proficiency levels.
- Global Acceptance: In-class certificates are widely recognized and often preferred.
- Enhanced Job Prospects: Many top-tier teaching positions prioritize in-class TEFL certifications.
- Investment in Career: Though more expensive and time-consuming than online courses, the investment is invaluable for long-term EFL teaching aspirations.
What are the key points to consider when choosing a TEFL course?
The best advice we can give is don't simply choose the cheapest or the first option you come across as they may not be suitable for your needs. Make sure you spend time researching what employers expect from job applicants in the countries where you would like to work, as well as any official requirements for work permits and visas etc. Finally you should also research the course provider to ensure they have a good reputation amongst their graduates. As long as you spend a little time choosing the right course to suit your plans, your TEFL career should get off to a smooth start.
