TEFL is the acronym for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. It is English language guideline that happens in a country where English isn't the main language. Also called Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), English Language Teaching (ELT), and teaching ESL (English as a Second Language). The field of TEFL/TESOL is among the fastest growing educational fields worldwide. There are 10s of thousands of job chances for teaching English abroad worldwide, but specifically in China, South Korea, and Japan. Both native and non-native proficient English speakers can earn their TEFL/TESOL certification.
Before you get hung up on the various acronyms, understand that there is little or no distinction in between TEFL and TESOL. They are both acronyms that essentially indicate the same thing: teaching the English language to non-native speakers. Also, TEFL certification and TESOL accreditation are exactly the same.
ESL (English as a Second Language) is the term used to the teaching or learning of English while in a native English speaking nation. If you want to go abroad, TEFL or TESOL is a more precise term for what you're doing than ESL is.
To Teach English as a Foreign Language in a foreign country (non-native English speaking country), TEFL Certification is typically needed due to the fact that schools and English language training business want to employ teachers who have gotten training to do their jobs well. You do not need a degree in education, prior teaching experience, or even a college degree to get to teach English abroad. Most personal language schools abroad want to work with individuals who have actually received TEFL Certification.
Many countries and schools want your TEFL accreditation to consist of at least 120 hours of coursework taught by a qualified trainer.
Here are some frequently asked TEFL/TESOL certification questions:
How do I understand which course to choose?
It's actually crucial to do your research before you purchase, as there are numerous TEFL course suppliers out there and there is no global TEFL/TESOL certifying body. To inform you the reality, anyone can create a course and offer it. Because of this, examine the course content as much as possible before signing up. Also, make sure you'll be getting at least 120 hours of training so you can use your training in a lot of countries.
What does it cost? can I make teaching English abroad?
Teacher wages differ between countries and it depends on what kind of setting you teach in. Almost all TEFL jobs in China will pay the equivalent of $1000-$3000 USD, which is sufficient to live comfortably due to China's lower cost of living. In some countries like the United Arab Emirates, you might earn up to $6,000 USD a month!
Can I teach abroad without knowing their language?
You do not need to speak another language to teach English abroad. Lots of schools choose that TEFL lessons take place totally in English, so that's all you need.
Where can I teach?
Once you're TEFL certified, you can request jobs all over the world, in any country where people are discovering English. This generally implies there are opportunities everywhere! However, the best paying tasks are in China, Japan, South Korea, and the Middle East.
Will I get help finding work?
With most companies like eTeachAbroad.com and EnglishTeacherChina.com, you will get free unrestricted aid finding an excellent job in China or other countries.
Can TEFL be a long term profession?
There are several functions available to TEFL teachers if you 'd like to operate in the field long term. A few of those jobs are Director of Studies, English Course Curriculum Writer, TEFL Course Designer, and Teacher Recruiter. The sky is the limit once you have your TEFL accreditation!