Cultural Differences Between U.s. And Europe

Jon ITTT Destinations As a TEFL teacher it is important to make sure you have a good understanding of the language point you are teaching. It is equally important to have a good understanding of the country and culture you intend to teach in. While many aspects of behavior and etiquette may seem quite similar, each country has its own particular quirks that should be understood by a TEFL teacher. In this post I look at some important aspects of etiquette in different countries in Europe that any TEFL certification graduate should keep in mind. Manners and behaviour Better late than never? The pitfalls of hand gestures Social situations The common handshake Addressing strangers Do you want to teach English in Europe? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post: Each country has...  [Read more]

Federico Riva Destinations TEFL Information Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) abroad is a great way to gain international experience, learn a new culture, and earn money while traveling. Europe is a particularly popular destination for ESL teachers, offering a wide variety of countries with different cultures and languages. In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the best countries in Europe for teaching ESL, including factors such as cost of living, job opportunities, and cultural immersion experiences. Whether you're a seasoned teacher or just starting out, these countries are sure to offer something for everyone. Watch the video about this topic Teaching English in the Czech Republic Teaching English in France Teaching English in Greece Teaching English in Hungary...  [Read more]

Yes, it is entirely feasible for Americans to teach English in Europe. Due to Europe's vast English-learning population, there is a significant demand for native English-speaking teachers that local EU resources cannot fully accommodate. As a result, numerous language schools actively seek Americans with TEFL qualifications. Annually, thousands of U.S. citizens secure teaching positions in key European cities, including Rome, Madrid, Berlin, Moscow, and Prague. Where can Americans teach English in Europe? When is the best time for Americans to find English teaching jobs in Europe? What visas do Americans need to teach English in Europe? For Americans looking to teach English in Europe, there are several appealing destinations that offer both opportunity and adventure: For Americans...  [Read more]

TESOL and TEFL, though frequently confused, address distinct teaching environments. TESOL encompasses teaching English to non-native speakers, whether in English-speaking countries like the U.S. or elsewhere. Conversely, TEFL is specifically geared towards instructing English in regions where the language is foreign. TEFL = Teaching English as a Foreign Language TESOL = Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Where are TEFL and TESOL most commonly used? What are the technical differences between TEFL and TESOL? TEFL is predominantly used in the UK and Europe, whereas TESOL is the preferred term in the United States, Canada, and Australia. These terms, while often used interchangeably, indicate regional preferences for English teaching certification. Despite the difference in...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Destinations While many people wanting to teach English abroad move to countries in Asia or Latin America, Europe is also a popular destination that cannot be ignored. Despite stricter visa regulations and tougher job markets for teachers, there are still many places in all parts of Europe that have a need for foreign teachers. Here are the top 10 cities in Europe with the highest demand for English language teachers. Madrid - El Foro, The Forum of Spain Prague - The City of a Hundred Spires Rome - The Eternal City London - The Royal City Paris - The City of Love Lisbon - City With a Future Budapest - The Pearl of the Danube Athens - The City of the Violet Crown Istanbul - The Second Rome Moscow - City of the Tsars Listen to this blog post Are you ready to start a new...  [Read more]

Mark Crocker Destinations TEFL Information For many people looking to teach English abroad, Europe is the number one dream destination. Whether your dreams involve the romance of Paris, the fine art of Florence, or the nightlife of Barcelona, the good news is there are plenty of teaching jobs available, even if you have no previous experience. If you are a native speaker of English, there is really nothing standing in your way. Get TEFL certified Prepare to interview in person Be aware of each country's requirements Make multiple job applications and even accept more than one offer Take on private lessons in your free time Plan your finances Pick and choose your clients wisely Yes, maximize your free time! Listen to this blog post Are you ready to teach English in Europe? Related...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences American English and British English are two varieties which are taught in English teaching programs around the world. Although it is accepted that no one version is corrected, there are certainly preferences in use. Someone who can speak, read or understand one variety of English, he/she'll also probably be able to understand most of the other varieties without problem. Pronunciation differences Vocabulary differences Spelling differences Grammar differences Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Sumeyra Y. The differences between American and British English can be categorized in four ways: British English and American sound remarkably different. The...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Destinations Alumni Experiences Korean learners of the English language face numerous challenges in acquiring the language on a proficient level, although English is introduced to children at an early age. English is incorporated into the primary school curriculum from the age of four, yet only a small minority master the language on a proficient conversational level. Unfortunately, the reasons seem to stem from cultural and social differences, the significant differences between the two languages; Korean and English, and the Korean Educational System is also a contributing factor. Listen to this blog post: Problems Relating to Cultural Differences Problems Relating to the Different Phonetic and Grammar Systems Problems with English Education in the Korean School System...  [Read more]

Mark Crocker Destinations The Czech Republic is by no means a newcomer to the EFL teaching world; in fact, it has been a firm favorite with many teachers for several years. However, it may not be among the countries you initially consider when planning to teach English as a foreign language in Europe. So what is it about the country that draws in thousands of teachers from all over the world every year? The following 6 reasons for teaching English in the Czech Republic should provide a few answers. 1. A Thriving Job Market for English Language Teachers 2. Work Visas for Non-EU Citizens 3. A Great location for Exploring Europe ITTT Prague Center 4. A Low Cost of Living 5. Fascinating History, Culture and Architecture 6. World-Class Beer and a Relaxed Way of Life Are you ready to teach...  [Read more]

Earning potential for teaching English abroad has seen a significant rise due to the growing global demand for English language instruction. Salaries vary greatly, but in high-paying countries, English teachers can expect to earn between $2,000 and $5,000 per month. Factors influencing a TEFL salary include the teaching position, country of employment, and the teacher's credentials. Points to consider when evaluating potential TEFL salaries. How much can I earn teaching English in Asia? How much can I earn teaching English in the Middle East? How much can I earn teaching English in Europe? How much can I earn teaching English in Latin America? When evaluating potential TEFL salaries, several key factors should be considered: It is essential to assess the entire package, not just the...  [Read more]

Among the many attractions of teaching English abroad is the fact that you are free to choose not only the region where you would like to work, but also the specific country or even city. For some teachers the history and culture of Europe appeals most, while others are drawn to exotic destinations across Asia or Latin America. However, before you book your plane tickets you need to be aware that the requirements for foreign teachers vary greatly from one country to the next and these may limit your options. You should do plenty of research on whether any of the following issues apply to your chosen destination. In some cases, language schools are restricted to only hiring teachers who hold citizenship of a native English speaking country. These are generally considered to be the USA,...  [Read more]

Our in-class TEFL certification courses are available in a variety of locations around the world, and there might even be one near you. This type of course is very popular as many trainees find it more productive to be taught in person by an experienced teacher trainer rather than having to work through the course materials alone. In-class TEFL course basics In-class TEFL course trainers In-class TEFL course teaching practice In-class TEFL course accommodation In-class TEFL course locations In-class TEFL course locations in Europe In-class TEFL course locations in Asia In-class TEFL course locations in the Americas In-class TEFL course locations in Africa and the Middle East Main benefits of an in-class TEFL course ITTT in-class TEFL courses run for a period of four weeks and attendance...  [Read more]

If you enroll on a TEFL or TESOL certification course with ITTT you get to decide which acronym you have printed on your certificate. Either TEFL or TESOL is fine as they are used interchangeably throughout much of the English language teaching world. However, if you have a clear plan as to where you want to work, it is worth doing a bit of research to see which of the two is more commonly used in your chosen destination. If most employers are asking for TEFL qualified teachers in their job adverts then it makes sense to go with that option, and vice versa if TESOL certificates are more common. TEFL or TESOL in Europe Common teaching destinations in Europe Other European countries to look out for Pros and cons of teaching English in Europe TEFL or TESOL in Asia Common teaching destinations...  [Read more]

Jon ITTT Alumni Experiences As more and more countries place a growing importance on its people to learn English as a secondary language, for work purposes or for general use, there is a growing debate about which is the better English to learn - British English or American English. Both versions are essentially the same Prioritise teaching "Good English" Certain students may need specific versions of English Points to consider when choosing a version to teach Exploring the differences can be an interesting lesson Don't get obsessed with minor differences Are you excited to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Max E. The argument stems from the growing influence of America in the modern world. British...  [Read more]

In 2022/23, aspiring TEFL teachers are spoilt for choice when it comes to picking a teaching destination. From locations boasting competitive salaries to places rich in culture or known for vibrant social scenes, there is something for everyone. Moreover, with the modern shift, online English teaching has surged in popularity, allowing educators the flexibility to teach without geographical constraints. Dive into our comprehensive guide highlighting the pros and cons of each top destination to make an informed decision. Which is the most popular region for TEFL? Where can I earn the most money teaching English in Asia? Where else is popular in Asia? What are the most popular TEFL destinations in the Middle East? What are the pros and cons of teaching English in the Middle East? What are...  [Read more]

Opportunities abound for the TEFL teacher in Europe and it is a popular destination for many upon completing their TEFL certification. Teachers with a specialism in teaching business English will do well in countries such as France and Germany, but there are plenty of teaching jobs to be found across the whole region. The requirements for English teachers in Europe do vary from country to country and this infographic aims to highlight the differences and similarities between them. For those countries in the European Union, teachers who are EU citizens are preferred as many schools are unwilling to deal with the extensive paperwork involved in hiring teachers from outside the EU. That is not to say that teachers from countries outside of the European Union cannot find work there, just...  [Read more]

If you have already graduated from one of our TEFL certification courses and have yet to decide on where you would like to teach, or you are thinking about signing up for a course and are looking for an insight into the most popular teaching destinations, then the following guides might provide some welcome inspiration. Below you will find dozens of countries from all corners of the world where there are plenty of good opportunities for teaching EFL. Click on the countries that interest you to access a wide range of travel tips, country facts and other useful information. South Korea is one of the most popular destinations in the world for teaching English as a foreign language as it offers an exciting culture, beautiful natural scenery and a multitude of EFL jobs with high salaries and...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Sheneil J. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Problems with Consonants Problems with Vowels Problems with Rhythm and Stress Problems with intonation Minimal Pairs Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: Chinese does not have either of the "th" sounds (like "that" and "this"). Most other languages do not have these sounds and they are problematic for most learners of English. The difficulty is the point of articulation- the tongue has to be between the teeth, not behind them. Many people say that English speakers look like they're sticking their tongues out all the time because of the "th" sounds. It...  [Read more]

The financial aspect of teaching English overseas is a significant consideration alongside the cultural and adventurous. Generally, English teachers abroad can comfortably cover daily living expenses. However, the potential to save money varies widely by region. Many positions do allow for savings, which can be directed towards financial goals such as paying off student loans or saving for future travels. The key to maximizing savings while teaching abroad lies in choosing locations with favorable salary-to-cost-of-living ratios and managing personal expenses wisely. How much can I save while teaching English in Europe? How much can I save while teaching English in Latin America? How much can I save while teaching English in Asia? How much can I save while teaching English in the Middle...  [Read more]

Undoubtedly, taking a TEFL certification course before heading overseas to teach offers distinct advantages. Completing your TEFL training in your home country ensures you are well-equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge before diving into a foreign teaching environment. By doing so, you not only increase your employability but also approach potential teaching roles with confidence. When overseas schools interview, they often seek candidates familiar with TEFL methodologies, and having your certification in hand can provide a competitive edge. Can I get an EFL teaching job before I leave home? Should I keep my options open if I'm not sure where I want to teach? Is it cheaper to take a TEFL course in my home country? Can I take an in-class TEFL course in the U.S? Absolutely! Many...  [Read more]

Asia Ridley TEFL Information Alumni Experiences English education in Japan has been prominent for decades and starts in elementary schools. It is in high demand as the relationship between the U.S. and Japan as well as the abundant amount of tourism. Last year straight after graduating from university in the United States, I moved to Japan and began teaching English. I was fortunate to pass the interviews and become part of the Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme {JET}. Being an assistant language teacher {ALT} in the Japanese education system versus a conversation school has its differences. Therefore I will be diving into how one can contribute to the classroom as an ALT. Japanese Elementary School Collaborating with your Homeroom Teacher Outside of the classroom Conclusion Are you...  [Read more]

When choosing a destination for teaching English abroad there are a wide variety of options available to suit all tastes. For some this choice is based on where the best salaries and benefits are offered, whilst others may be more focused on cultural aspects or simply where to find the best nightlife. Each region and individual country has its own pros and cons, so here we give a brief overview of the most popular options to help you make the right decision to suit your plans. Which is the most popular region for teaching English abroad? Where can I earn the most money teaching English in Asia? What other popular spots are there for teaching English in Asia? Where are the most popular TEFL destinations in the Middle East? What are the pros and cons of teaching English in the Middle...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences British English (BrE) and American English (AmE) are two of the main varieties of the English language. There are other different varieties of English that exist such as Canadian, Australian, New Zealand, South Asian and African English. Language Structure 1. Vocabulary and Spelling 2. Grammar Historical Prerequisits Diplomatic Relationships Globalization Do you want to teach English in Japan? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: Listen to this blog post: Although English was introduced to America through the colonization period by the British, the two varieties of English have evolved to be quite different from each other in certain areas. This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Shanique H. Please note that this blog post might...  [Read more]

Federico Riva Budget and Salary Destinations TEFL Information Hello, Linda here from ITTT for another weekly live session on Facebook and YouTube at the same time as always. If you've watched one of my sessions before thanks so much for tuning in again and if this is your first time watching, hello and welcome. If you are listening to this as a podcast episode, thanks so much for downloading the podcast, it means a lot to us as we always turn our live sessions into podcast episodes and you can find them on Spotify, Google Podcasts, itunes, all those podcast places out there. Watch the live session here I already have a question from Caroline. I also taught English in China, where were you teaching Linda? We have some questions. Tiana asks do European countries offer accommodation? Next...  [Read more]

As there is a strong demand for TEFL qualified teachers in many countries worldwide, most course graduates should have little trouble finding a suitable position. However, to maximise your chances of securing the best jobs there are a few things you should be aware of. Where you should look for work, how to apply for jobs, and how to prepare for that all important interview are all covered below. Where can I teach English abroad? Which is the most popular region for teaching English abroad? Where can I earn the most money teaching English in Asia? What other popular spots are there for teaching English in Asia? Where are the most popular TEFL destinations in the Middle East? What are the pros and cons of teaching English in the Middle East? Where are the most popular TEFL...  [Read more]

Jon ITTT Alumni Experiences Classroom management is one of the most important aspects of teaching and is the key to students' successful learning. Consequently, how to effectively manage and run classroom becomes the central theme and sometimes the biggest concern for English teachers, especially when facing young learners. There are a variety of settings with different scenarios but since I currently teach in Japan, here I would like to focus on the class setting in which all students are Japanese, i.e., of a single nationality who learn English as a foreign language. The classroom environment Student behavior The importance of building trust in the classroom Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post This post was written by our TEFL...  [Read more]

If you want to have a job in place and all the paperwork sorted out before you leave your home country, a TEFL placement program is certainly worth considering. Several countries across Europe and Asia have government run schemes that recruit foreign teachers to work in their public school system. The following options are long established and respected programs that offer a great opportunity to live and work in some of the most popular teaching destinations. What is the TAPIF Program for teaching English in France? What are the requirements for the TAPIF Program? How do I apply for the TAPIF Program? Do I need a TEFL/TESOL certificate to apply to the TAPIF Program? What is the Cultural Ambassadors Program for teaching English in Spain? What are the requirements for the Cultural...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences ESL students will receive many formal grammar lessons that will give them a good grounding in proper English sentence structures, when to use who and whom, various verb tenses, the importance of noun-verb agreement and proper punctuation—and much more. Proper grammar will give them a thorough understanding of the elements of grammar and equip them to navigate through formal English-language communication, such as business letters and reports, meetings, emails to clients, and formal assignments in English classes. Real vocabulary Real-life situations Colloquialisms Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course today! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Brenda Q. Please note that this blog post...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas After spending five years in China as an ESL teacher, corporate trainer and university lecturer I would like to share a few of the most common problems for Chinese learners and ways for teachers to overcome them. I will focus on problems regarding cultural differences, pronunciation and first language interference. Social challenges Pronunciation First language influence Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Michal W. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Despite China's opening to the outside world in recent decades, it is still a very closed society with only anecdotal knowledge of Western culture (by...  [Read more]

While Spain is undoubtedly a top TEFL destination in Europe, drawing teachers globally, Latin America presents unique offerings that might align better with some educators' preferences. Beyond the allure of Spain's sunny coast, Latin America boasts diverse cultures, rich histories, and often a lower cost of living in many of its countries. Delving into the specifics, some teachers find that Latin America's advantages provide a more fitting and fulfilling teaching experience. Where is the best place to learn the Spanish language? What is the cost of living in Spain compared to Latin America? How do work visas differ between Spain and Latin America? What about hiring seasons and getting a job in advance? What other advantages does Latin America have over Spain? When seeking the ideal...  [Read more]