Tesl Language

TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language) are both fields within the broader category of English language teaching, but they differ in the context in which English is being taught. TEFL is typically used when English is being taught in a non-English speaking country where English is not the primary language of communication. In these settings, students are learning English as a foreign language to communicate with speakers of other languages. TEFL teachers often work in language schools, universities, or private companies in countries where English is not the dominant language. On the other hand, TESL is used when English is being taught in an English-speaking country to non-native speakers who are integrating into that English-speaking...  [Read more]

  ITTT has been at the forefront of providing high quality teacher training programs since 1993. In that time we have produced thousands of graduates every year through our extensive range of online, in-class and combined training courses. As a market leader in the TEFL industry, we are continuously striving to improve our products and services to ensure that we maintain our position as one of the largest and most highly regarded providers of TEFL training worldwide. Check out what our grads have to say about us in this testimonial video!  [Read more]

For some teachers, the main reason for becoming TEFL qualified is to open the door to adventures living and working overseas. However, there are many circumstances where teaching over the internet could also be a great option. For recently qualified teachers it can be a convenient way to gain experience while earning money to fund a trip abroad. It can also be a good way to supplement your income from another job. Whether you are in your home country or already living and working abroad, teaching English as a foreign language online might be worth considering. Setting yourself up as an online language teacher can be surprisingly straightforward and inexpensive. Your biggest expense is likely to be completing a TEFL/TESOL qualification. While completing an internationally recognized...  [Read more]

From Mediterranean beach resorts in the north to the Cape of Good Hope in the south, the extraordinary continent of Africa has plenty of great opportunities for ESL teachers who are willing to seek them out. However, teaching positions in this part of the world are not as numerous or as widespread as in many other regions, so you might need to be flexible regarding your expectations and patience will almost certainly be required. The largest numbers of ESL teaching positions in Africa that pay a reasonable salary are generally found in North African countries such as Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia. In these countries you will find a strong demand for teachers in a range of schools, although the bulk of demand is from private language academies. Private tutoring is also a good option in...  [Read more]

When considering the best TEFL course for teaching in language schools, there are several factors to take into account to ensure you are well-prepared for the classroom environment. The quality of the course, accreditation, content, and practical teaching experience are key elements to consider. First and foremost, it is essential to choose a TEFL course that is reputable and recognized by language schools worldwide. Accreditation by recognized bodies such as the British Council, ACCET, or Cambridge English Language Assessment ensures that the course meets high standards of quality and that your certification will be accepted by employers. The content of the TEFL course is also crucial in preparing you for teaching in language schools. Look for a course that covers essential topics such as...  [Read more]

TEFL certification can definitely help you to secure a job in language advocacy. Language advocacy involves promoting the importance of language learning and cultural understanding, and having a TEFL certification provides you with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English as a foreign language. First and foremost, a TEFL certification demonstrates to potential employers that you have received training in teaching English to non-native speakers. This can be particularly valuable in language advocacy roles where you may be required to teach English to individuals from diverse linguistic backgrounds. Employers in language advocacy organizations often look for candidates who have a strong understanding of language teaching methodologies and techniques, which a TEFL...  [Read more]

TEFL certification can definitely help you secure a job in language assessment. Language assessment involves evaluating a person's language proficiency in a given language, and having a TEFL certification can provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively assess language skills. One of the key benefits of obtaining a TEFL certification for a job in language assessment is that it demonstrates to potential employers that you have received training in teaching English as a foreign language. This training equips you with the ability to assess language skills in a structured and effective manner, which is essential for positions in language assessment. Additionally, TEFL certification often includes coursework on language acquisition, linguistics, and assessment techniques,...  [Read more]

Yes, obtaining a TEFL certification is often required when teaching English in private language schools, especially in countries where English is not the native language. While it is possible to find teaching opportunities without a TEFL certification, having one can significantly increase your chances of securing a job and may lead to better employment prospects. Private language schools typically look for teachers who have received proper training in teaching English as a foreign language, and a TEFL certification demonstrates that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English to non-native speakers. Additionally, many schools prefer to hire teachers with a TEFL certification as it is a mark of professionalism and dedication to the field of English language...  [Read more]

TEFL certification can certainly be beneficial for individuals seeking employment in language policy development. While TEFL primarily focuses on teaching English as a foreign language, the skills and knowledge acquired during the certification process are transferable to a variety of language-related fields, including language policy development. One of the key aspects of TEFL certification is gaining a deep understanding of language acquisition, linguistics, and communication. This knowledge is essential in understanding how language policies impact language learning and teaching practices. Additionally, TEFL certification equips individuals with effective teaching methodologies, curriculum development skills, and assessment techniques, all of which are valuable in shaping language...  [Read more]

If you are looking for a destination to teach English abroad that is slightly off the beaten track, but still offers endless opportunity for culture and travel, then Russia could be a great choice. With a population close to 150 million and an increasing focus on cross border business, Russia has a very strong demand for English language teachers, particularly in cities such as Moscow and Saint Petersburg. As demand for teachers is so high in some parts of the country language schools tend to hire year-round, unlike many other countries across Europe that often have set hiring seasons. Russia also differs from most other destinations in Europe as schools routinely hire teachers in advance from within their home countries. This means the application process and interviews are conducted...  [Read more]

Yes, TEFL teachers can work in language institutes around the world. Language institutes are educational institutions that specialize in teaching languages to students of all ages and levels. These institutes often offer a variety of language courses, including English as a Foreign Language (EFL) or English as a Second Language (ESL) programs. Working in a language institute as a TEFL teacher can be a rewarding experience, as you have the opportunity to work with students from diverse cultural backgrounds and help them improve their English language skills. As a TEFL teacher in a language institute, your responsibilities may include planning and delivering lessons, assessing student progress, providing feedback, and creating a supportive and engaging learning environment. One of the...  [Read more]

Yes, TEFL teachers can work in language schools both domestically and internationally. Language schools often hire TEFL teachers to provide English language instruction to students of various ages and proficiency levels. Working in a language school can offer TEFL teachers a structured teaching environment and the opportunity to work with diverse groups of students from different cultural backgrounds. One of the main benefits of working in a language school as a TEFL teacher is the support and resources that are typically provided. Language schools often have pre-designed curriculum and materials for teachers to use, which can help streamline lesson planning and preparation. Additionally, language schools may offer professional development opportunities and training sessions to help...  [Read more]

  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 USA and TEFL is more common in the UK.  [Read more]

The simple answer is no, you do not need to have any knowledge or experience of languages other than English to take a TEFL course or to become an EFL teacher. The ability to speak other languages is not required as the vast majority of TEFL classrooms around the world rely on the communicative approach to English teaching that specifies that English is the only language used in the classroom. In multilingual classrooms where the students could have a dozen or more different first languages, being able to communicate in one or two of them would obviously be of no particular advantage. In monolingual classrooms you may also find that students are more inclined to revert to their mother tongue during the lesson if they are aware that the teacher can understand what is being said....  [Read more]

Yes. One of the many benefits of teaching English abroad is that it can provide a great environment for learning a foreign language. It is no secret that being fully immersed in a different culture, where you are constantly surrounded by a new language, is the most effective way to quickly develop your understanding. Throughout your time living and working as an English teacher abroad, you will inevitably have endless opportunities to practice your language skills. As well as using the language as you go about your daily life, there is also a good chance that you will have access to local language courses that are far cheaper than those available in your home country. Another possibility is the network of friends that you will likely make among the local citizens. Often people are more...  [Read more]

TEFL teachers can certainly work in heritage language schools, although there are some considerations to keep in mind. Heritage language schools cater to students who have a connection to a specific cultural or linguistic background and are often focused on maintaining and developing proficiency in that heritage language. As a TEFL teacher, you can bring valuable skills and perspectives to these settings, helping students improve their English language proficiency while also respecting and supporting their heritage language and cultural identity. One important aspect to consider when working in a heritage language school is the balance between teaching English and supporting the students' heritage language development. It's essential to collaborate with the school's staff and...  [Read more]

TEFL teachers can play a crucial role in language preservation programs by using their expertise to support communities in maintaining and revitalizing their native languages. Language preservation programs aim to protect and promote endangered languages, often by teaching them alongside dominant languages like English. TEFL teachers can contribute by incorporating elements of the endangered language into their English lessons, creating bilingual materials, or even teaching the endangered language directly. One way TEFL teachers can work in language preservation programs is by collaborating with local communities to develop bilingual educational materials. By creating resources that incorporate both English and the endangered language, teachers can help students maintain their linguistic...  [Read more]

TEFL teachers can certainly work in heritage language programs, although the specific requirements and opportunities may vary depending on the program and location. In heritage language programs, the focus is often on teaching languages that are spoken by a specific cultural or ethnic group, typically within immigrant communities or among individuals with ancestral ties to a particular language or culture. Working in heritage language programs can be a rewarding experience for TEFL teachers, as they have the opportunity to help students connect with their cultural roots, maintain their linguistic heritage, and develop a strong sense of identity and belonging. These programs often serve as a vital link to the past for many individuals, helping them preserve and pass on their language and...  [Read more]

Yes, TEFL teachers can work in language access programs. Language access programs are designed to help individuals with limited English proficiency to access important services and information. TEFL teachers are well-equipped to work in these programs as they have the necessary skills to teach English to non-native speakers effectively. These programs can be found in various settings such as government agencies, healthcare facilities, schools, and community organizations. TEFL teachers play a crucial role in helping individuals improve their English language skills, which in turn enables them to fully participate in society. TEFL teachers working in language access programs often create customized lesson plans based on the needs and proficiency levels of their students. They may focus on...  [Read more]

Yes, it is possible to teach English abroad even if you are not fluent in the local language. Many schools and language centers around the world specifically look for native or proficient English speakers to teach English as a foreign language (TEFL) without requiring knowledge of the local language. Here are some reasons why fluency in the local language may not be necessary for teaching English abroad: Firstly, English teaching positions often prioritize fluency in English over fluency in the local language. As an English teacher, your main role is to create an immersive English-speaking environment for your students, helping them improve their English language skills through exposure and practice. Secondly, many language schools and programs use the "communicative approach" in language...  [Read more]

If you are looking to find TEFL teaching jobs in countries where there may be language barriers, there are several strategies you can employ to increase your chances of success. First and foremost, it is essential to have a strong grasp of the English language as this will be the primary language of instruction in most TEFL positions. Additionally, having a TEFL certification can make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers, especially in countries where English is not the native language. One of the best ways to find TEFL teaching jobs in countries with language barriers is to utilize online job boards and websites that specialize in international teaching positions. Websites such as Dave's ESL Cafe, TEFL.com, and ESLemployment are popular resources for finding TEFL jobs...  [Read more]

TEFL certification can be a valuable asset if you are seeking a job in language policy. While TEFL primarily focuses on teaching English as a foreign language, the skills and knowledge gained from a TEFL certification can be applied to various roles within language policy and related fields. Here are some ways in which TEFL certification can benefit you in pursuing a career in language policy: 1. **Language Proficiency**: TEFL certification equips you with a strong understanding of English language structure, grammar, and usage. This can be beneficial in roles that involve analyzing language policies, drafting language-related documents, or conducting research on language issues. 2. **Intercultural Communication**: TEFL training emphasizes effective communication with non-native English...  [Read more]

TEFL certification can certainly be beneficial for those interested in working in language preservation efforts. While TEFL primarily focuses on teaching English as a foreign language, the skills and knowledge acquired during TEFL certification can be applied to various language preservation projects. Here's how TEFL certification can help you in this field: Firstly, TEFL certification equips you with essential teaching skills that are transferable to teaching and preserving minority languages. The methodologies and techniques learned in TEFL courses can be adapted to create curriculum and materials for language preservation programs. Moreover, TEFL certification provides a solid foundation in linguistics, which is crucial for understanding language structures and patterns. This knowledge...  [Read more]

Teaching English abroad can be a rewarding experience, even if you don't know the local language. Many countries, especially in Asia and the Middle East, have a high demand for English teachers and are willing to hire native English speakers regardless of their knowledge of the local language. Here are some factors to consider if you are thinking about teaching English abroad without knowing the local language: 1. **English-Only Policy**: Many schools and language institutes where you might work have an English-only policy in the classroom. This means that you will be expected to teach and communicate solely in English, which can actually be beneficial for the students as it creates an immersive language learning environment. 2. **Training and Support**: Before you begin teaching, you may...  [Read more]

When it comes to teaching English in language immersion programs, the requirements can vary depending on the program and country. While a TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) certification is not always mandatory, having one can be highly beneficial for both the teacher and the students. One of the main advantages of obtaining a TEFL certification is that it equips teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English as a foreign language. This includes lesson planning, classroom management, and understanding language acquisition principles. These skills can greatly enhance the quality of instruction provided in language immersion programs. Additionally, many language immersion programs prefer or require teachers to have a TEFL certification as it...  [Read more]

TEFL certification can indeed be a valuable asset for individuals seeking employment in language revitalization programs. These programs are designed to preserve and revive endangered or minority languages, often in communities where English is not the primary language. TEFL certification equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English as a foreign language, which can be beneficial in such programs for several reasons. Firstly, many language revitalization programs aim to promote bilingualism or multilingualism, where English may be introduced as a second language alongside the endangered language. In such cases, having a TEFL certification demonstrates your proficiency in teaching English to non-native speakers, making you a more attractive candidate to...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certification can be a valuable asset for individuals seeking a career in language education policy. While TEFL certification is typically associated with teaching English to non-native speakers, the skills and knowledge acquired through the certification process can be applicable to a variety of roles within the field of language education policy. One of the key benefits of obtaining a TEFL certification is the development of strong communication and intercultural skills. These skills are essential for effectively engaging with diverse stakeholders in the field of language education policy, including educators, policymakers, and community members. Additionally, TEFL certification programs often cover topics such as language acquisition theory,...  [Read more]

TEFL certification can definitely help you to secure a job in language program evaluation. Language program evaluation involves assessing the effectiveness of language learning programs, materials, and teaching methodologies. Having a TEFL certification demonstrates to potential employers that you have a solid understanding of language teaching principles, methodologies, and techniques, which are essential for evaluating language programs effectively. One of the key benefits of holding a TEFL certification when pursuing a career in language program evaluation is that it provides you with a strong foundation in language teaching theory and practice. This knowledge is crucial when evaluating the quality of language programs and identifying areas for improvement. Employers in the field of...  [Read more]

TEFL certification can significantly enhance your chances of securing a job in language curriculum design. This certification equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English as a foreign language, which is a crucial aspect of designing language curricula. Employers often value TEFL certification as it demonstrates your commitment to the field and your ability to provide quality language instruction. One of the main benefits of having a TEFL certification when pursuing a career in language curriculum design is the practical training and experience it offers. During a TEFL course, you will learn about language teaching methodologies, lesson planning, classroom management, and assessment techniques. These skills are directly applicable to designing language...  [Read more]

Yes, you can absolutely obtain a TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) certificate even if English is your second language. In fact, being a non-native English speaker can sometimes be an advantage when pursuing a TEFL certification, as you have firsthand experience in learning the language and can empathize with your future students who are also learning English as a foreign language. One of the first things to consider when pursuing a TEFL certificate as a non-native English speaker is your proficiency in the English language. Most TEFL certification programs require a certain level of English language proficiency, typically equivalent to a C1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This is to ensure that you have a strong grasp of the language in...  [Read more]