J.a.p.a.n. Acronym

TEFL stands for 'Teaching English as a Foreign Language.' Beyond its definition, TEFL also denotes training courses that English language instructors undergo and the certification they earn upon finishing. Completing a TEFL course equips individuals with the necessary skills to teach English effectively across the globe. What qualification do I need to teach EFL? How do TEFL courses differ? Which TEFL course provides the most comprehensive training? Is an online TEFL course sufficient for teaching English abroad? What will I gain from my TEFL course? To teach EFL, the most widely recognized qualification is the TEFL certificate. Given the absence of a uniform standard for TEFL certification, numerous courses exist, each varying in duration, cost, and content. When choosing, it is...  [Read more]

In the field of English language instruction, various abbreviations often get mixed up, leading to confusion. A typical mix-up occurs between the terms EFL and ELL. Simply put, EFL stands for English as a Foreign Language, and ELL signifies English Language Learner. EFL pertains to the course or class, while ELL denotes the English student. What exactly does "EFL" mean? What does "ELL" stand for? EFL, or "English as a Foreign Language," denotes programs specifically constructed for ELL students. Many educational institutions offer EFL classes designed for English learners, utilizing EFL-centric curricula and programs. The term EFL broadly encapsulates the techniques and resources employed in teaching English to learners. ELL, an acronym for "English Language Learner," represents students...  [Read more]

EFL stands for English as a Foreign Language. It is a term widely recognized in the English language teaching industry, renowned for its many acronyms like TEFL, TESOL, ESOL, and ESL. Specifically, EFL refers to the teaching or studying of English by non-native speakers. While it has distinctions, it is often used interchangeably with other similar acronyms in the context of English education. What is the difference between EFL and ESL? What is EFL in the classroom? Who are EFL students? EFL, or English as a Foreign Language, pertains to students learning English in a country where English isn't the primary language, such as a Spanish-speaker studying English in Mexico. They predominantly communicate in their native language and study English occasionally, like attending weekly lessons....  [Read more]

The acronym TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. While this term is used for the physical act of actually teaching English abroad, it is also commonly used to refer to the training courses that many prospective teachers complete before heading overseas, as well as the qualification they receive upon successfully graduating from the course. By gaining a TEFL certificate it is possible to find work as an English language teacher in almost any country of your choice worldwide. TEFL - Teaching English as a Foreign Language TESL - Teaching English as a Second Language TESOL - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages ELT - English Language Teaching TEFL Qualifications Choosing a TEFL Certificate Course Online or In-Class TEFL Course Finding a Teaching Job Teaching Hot...  [Read more]

In the field of English language teaching, acronyms like TEFL, TESOL, and CELTA frequently surface, often leading to confusion for both newcomers and seasoned educators. While course providers, job boards, and teaching resources brim with these acronyms, understanding their distinctions is crucial. So, what sets TEFL, TESOL, and CELTA apart? What does TEFL mean? What does TESOL mean? What does CELTA mean? Which type of course should I choose? What if a course doesn't meet this criteria? Does the quality of a training course vary by location? TEFL stands for 'Teaching English as a Foreign Language.' A prevalent term in the world of teaching English overseas, TEFL isn't tied to a specific training program or provider. Instead, it broadly encapsulates various training and...  [Read more]

ESL (English as a Second Language) pertains to students learning English while living in an English-speaking environment. In contrast, EFL (English as a Foreign Language) is for students learning English in a country where it isn't the primary language. Essentially, the distinction lies in the learning context: ESL learners are surrounded by the language daily, while EFL learners study English in settings where the primary language isn't English. What do EFL and ESL actually stand for? What are the main differences between EFL and ESL? Teaching strategies for English as a second language Teaching strategies for English as a foreign language EFL and ESL represent the two primary categories of English language learning globally. While understanding these definitions isn't mandatory (since...  [Read more]

These acronyms are used when referring to training courses that English language teachers undertake, as well as the certification they receive upon completion. TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language and TESOL stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. As these terms are essentially the same, they are often used interchangeably, however, TEFL is most commonly used within the UK and TESOL is usually preferred in the USA. Although some countries may favor one acronym over the other, it is important to remember that a TEFL certification and a TESOL certification are exactly the same thing as the training involved is identical. What are the technical differences between TEFL and TESOL? What qualifications do I need to teach EFL? How do TEFL courses differ? ...  [Read more]

A couple of acronyms that you are likely to come across as an English teacher are IELTS and TOEFL. IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System and is a United Kingdom and Commonwealth based test of English language skills. TOEFL stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language and is a U.S. based English language skills test. These two are the main international English-language tests and are used by universities, governments and employers to assess the English proficiency of international students, immigrants and potential employees. TOEFL tests are mainly aimed at foreign students looking to study in U.S. universities and a Junior TOEFL test is also offered for middle school children. IELTS on the other hand has two types of test, there is the academic test for...  [Read more]

As with most professions the world of Teaching English as a Foreign Language has many of its own particular and sometimes peculiar terms and jargon. Getting to grips with the wide array of acronyms in the industry can sometimes feel like learning a whole new language! So if you have trouble telling the difference between your IWB (Interactive Whiteboard) and your OHP (Overhead Projector), this infographic is a great guide to what’s what in the English language teaching industry. Two of the most commonly used phrases in English teaching, and two that cause most confusion are TEFL and TESOL. TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language and TESOL means Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. Another term, TESL, means Teaching English as a Second Language. TESL is...  [Read more]

When choosing between TEFL and CELTA, it is essential to understand their specific strengths: In essence, while both certifications are valuable, the choice between TEFL and CELTA largely depends on your target teaching audience and career goals. What does TEFL mean? What does CELTA mean? Which is better, TEFL or CELTA? What if a course doesn't meet this criteria? Does the location of the course affect its quality? TEFL, or Teaching English as a Foreign Language, broadly encompasses any training or certification aimed at individuals who wish to teach English, whether locally, abroad, or online. It does not denote a specific course or certification. Upon researching, you will find countless TEFL course providers offering a variety of courses differing in duration, cost, and quality....  [Read more]

TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. In other words, it is a teaching qualification for teaching English to anyone whose first language isn't English. TEFL certificates are academic qualifications that are provided upon successful completion of a TEFL course. TEFL certificates can be used anywhere in the world, although the TEFL acronym is most commonly used when referring to teachers in the UK and Europe. Almost all schools expect their ESL teachers to be fluent in the English language, with sound communication skills and an ESL teaching qualification (TEFL/TESOL/CELTA). CELTA shares some similarities with TEFL and TESOL courses. It is overseen by the Cambridge university and is predominantly a qualification for teaching English to adult learners. TEFL and TESOL...  [Read more]

Acronyms are an essential tool used in all professions and technical writing. They are powerful tools to reduce word content. However without knowing what the acronym stands for, they can form a barrier to understanding. In the ESL (English as a Second Language) teaching world there is certainly no shortage of acronyms. Here we look at a few and one in particular, TEFL. Some useful teaching acronyms are: ELT: English Language Teaching. This is a general term for teaching English and applies to the teaching of English to both native and non-native English speakers. ELL: English Language Learner. This is a general term for anyone learning English and applies to learners of English who are native or non-native English speakers. ESL: English as a Second Language: This relates to the teaching...  [Read more]

The generally recognized acronym for the field of teaching English is ELT which simply means: English Language Teaching. Within this huge field there are a number of specialisms. One such specialism is the teaching of English to learners for whom English is not their first language. Three common acronyms that are often used when applied to this scenario are TEFL, TESL and TESOL. By defining the terms we will show that the idea of comparing one versus the other, i.e. “TEFL vs TESOL” is not particularly useful. So what do they mean? When the English teaching is to non native speakers and takes place in a country where the first language is not English. Examples would be teaching English in Peru or teaching English in Taiwan. TESL applies when teaching English to non native speakers in a...  [Read more]

The term TEFL is one that is often used in a general sense, although it does have a specific meaning. Generally the meaning of TEFL is some form of ‘the Teaching of English to people whose first language is not English’ and is often used interchangeably with terms such as TESOL, TEAL, TESL and many others. It is also generally used as the name of a qualification, such as a TEFL certificate, which relates to the result of a TEFL training course. Here we will look at the meaning of TEFL in these broad terms and also give its specific meaning, along with many other common acronyms used throughout the industry. The general acronym for the field of teaching English is ELT: English Language Teaching. This term applies across the board to teaching English, be it to American high school...  [Read more]

When choosing a certification for teaching English, three primary options emerge: TEFL, TESOL, and CELTA. Each has its own merits, and the best choice often hinges on your teaching aspirations. TEFL is typically favored for teaching children, while CELTA focuses on adult learners. TESOL bridges both demographics. Understanding the distinctions among these certifications can guide you to the right path for your educational journey and global adventures. What do TEFL, TESOL and CELTA stand for? What is the difference between TEFL and TESOL? What is a TEFL certification course? What is a TESOL certification course? Is TEFL or TESOL better? What is the difference between TEFL and CELTA? Is CELTA better than any other TEFL qualification? Understanding the acronyms in English teaching...  [Read more]

  This video covers special cases in reported speech that do not follow the typical pattern. This video is specifically aimed at teaching reported speech in an ESL setting. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! This unit provides a very broad overview of what the other 5 units in the course will entail. It also gives a clear indication of what the goals of the course are as well as what the learner...  [Read more]

  This video is part of our video series on "Evaluation and Testing of Students". In this video, we look at the most common academic English exams learners of English take around the world. It is important for EFL teachers to know these different types of proficiency test as they will most likely come across them during their teaching career. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! This unit was actually...  [Read more]

In the video collection below, you will find a summary of the most important acronyms and abbreviations in the ESL teaching sector. Make a great first impression at your new ESL job by familiarizing yourself with these terms.  [Read more]

  Tracy from the USA took the in-class TEFL course in Prague, Czech Republic. In this TEFL review video she discusses her overall experience. Tracy was very satisfied with the support she received before and during the course. Prague is just one of many training centers around the world where ITTT's TEFL/TESOL courses are offered. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! In unit nineteen I learned about the...  [Read more]

  This video is part of our video series on "Evaluation and Testing of Students". In this video, we look at some of the most common general English exams students of English take around the world. EFL teachers often hold classes to prepare the students for these international proficiency exams. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! This course is very much an add-on to the main TESOL/TEFL course. This...  [Read more]

At ITTT we are dedicated to training new teachers to become effective and confident professionals who are capable of working in English language classrooms worldwide. Throughout the training process we are here to guide you every step of the way, from choosing the right course all the way through to finding the best job to suit your plans. Inevitably you will have many questions along the way which is why we have put together the following FAQ section that should help to answer some of the most common queries. What is the difference between TESOL and TEFL?    TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language and TESOL stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. These descriptions are generally used interchangeably, however, TESOL is more common in the...  [Read more]

  "In this video, our OTP trainee Richard introduces the topic of quantifiers to his students in Florida. He elicits information on large and small quantifiers and writes it on the board for his students to see. ITTT's Observed Teaching Practice courses (OTP) are ideal for teachers wanting to improve their teaching skills remotely from anywhere in the world." Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! The...  [Read more]

The obvious place to start is with the acronym TEFL, what does it actually stand for? TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language and it can be used to refer to any situation where a non-native English speaker is being taught English. Technically, TEFL refers to situations where English is being taught in a non-English speaking country, but in most circumstances it is commonly used regardless of the learning environment. TEFL is also the name given to teacher training courses and the resulting certification that potential teachers undertake in order to meet the qualification criteria set out by most international employers of English language teachers. TEFL and TESOL certification Although a TEFL certificate is required to apply for most English language teaching jobs, many...  [Read more]

  Jaakko from Finland took the 120-hour online TEFL course with tutor support with videos from ITTT. In this TEFL review video, Jaakko talks about his experience on the course and the things he learned. Jaakko found the course to be well structured and overall very good. Initially he felt that it focused too much on the basics but after completing the course and reflecting on his teaching he realized the importance of studying these basics to the way he approached teaching English. The great thing about ITTT?s online TEFL course is that it caters for both inexperienced and experienced teachers alike. Whether you are completely new to teaching or have already been teaching for some time, you will benefit from taking a course with ITTT. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate...  [Read more]

TEFL and IELTS, while both situated within the realm of English language education, serve distinct purposes: In essence, while TEFL certifies teaching capabilities, IELTS gauges English language proficiency. What does TEFL stand for? What does IELTS stand for? TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. It is a widely used term in the teaching profession, referring to the instruction of English to non-native speakers. It is primarily used in contexts where English is taught in countries where it is not the native language, for instance, teaching English to French speakers in France. However, it also broadly applies to any context or location where English is being taught. In addition to representing the act of teaching English, TEFL also signifies the training courses and the...  [Read more]

  In this video we look at a TESOL teaching idea for the Present Perfect Continuous. This tense is the one we use when we want to say what has been happening. The activity in the video is called "Guess what I've been doing?" It is a fun activity that can generate a lot of student talk time. Students each receive a card that has two pieces of information on it, a past activity and a result. Each student has a turn of telling the class the result and the class then has to guess the activity using the Present Perfect Continuous. For example, the past activity on a card is "You have been driving your motorbike in the rain", the result written on the card is "You are all wet. Your clothes are wet". The other students could ask, "Have you been swimming?", "Have you been washing the dog?"...  [Read more]

Where are TEFL and TESOL primarily utilized? TEFL finds its main application in the UK and Europe, whereas TESOL is the preferred terminology in the United States, Canada, and Australia. Despite their interchangeable usage, these terms reflect regional preferences for English teaching accreditation. Nonetheless, both TEFL and TESOL certifications offer comparable training and qualifications. What are the technical distinctions between TEFL and TESOL? Should I get TEFL or TESOL certified? Why get TEFL / TESOL certified. Video Testimonials. TEFL and TESOL, though frequently interchanged, possess distinct technical scopes. TEFL is geared towards teaching English to individuals in non-English speaking regions, typically for purposes like travel, business, or personal enrichment. In contrast,...  [Read more]

EFL stands for English as a Foreign Language and is to almost all purposes the same as ESL, English as a Second Language. These two are also equivalent to ESOL which means, English to Speakers of Other Languages. For each of these terms, when we talk about the teaching of them, we add a ?T' to the front of each acronym and hence we arrive at the terms TEFL, TESL and TESOL. As they are basically the same we will refer to just one from here on, TEFL for the Teaching of English as a Foreign Language and EFL for English as a Foreign Language. TEFL qualifications Onsite courses Online courses Combined courses Teaching jobs Almost all TEFL teaching positions require a minimum qualification of a 100 to 120-hour TEFL certification. Courses provided to cover this certification are usually...  [Read more]

  Just to finish off this particular section on lesson planning, we're going to go through a couple of procedures that should take place during the study phase periods, particularly when we're doing the activities. It is quite important that before we actually go into a study activity that we go through a process of showing how that activity is going to work and one acronym that is often used for this is D-E-GO. The D part of this stands for a demonstration of the activity. Now, it's very important that you don't try to explain how the activity is going to work but rather you actually demonstrate the process. An example of the demonstration of the process of the activity could be something as simple as taking the first question and using it and writing it on the board. This will show...  [Read more]

Teaching English abroad is a great way to see the world and get paid while doing it, but what does it actually involve? Before you buy a plane ticket and jet off across the world it is a good idea to research as much as possible about TEFL qualifications, the possible restrictions you might encounter when applying for jobs, and the long term prospects this path might lead to. Here we look at the answers to all these questions and more. What does TEFL and TESOL stand for? What are the technical differences between TEFL and TESOL? What qualifications do I need to teach EFL? How do TEFL courses differ? Which TEFL course provides the most comprehensive training? Is an online TEFL course sufficient for teaching English abroad? Do I really need a TEFL certificate to teach abroad? Why...  [Read more]