As soon as you have decided to become an English teacher, you will encounter lots of new acronyms in terms of teaching. A huge variety of them may confuse not only new brands but also experienced teachers. That is why we have decided to elaborate on each certification and shed light on how to choose an appropriate one. Keep reading this article to know more about teaching qualifications.
Probably, you have already heard such things as ESL and EFL teaching. But, what do they mean? Truth be told, there is a slight difference between them, however, it makes sense when it comes to working abroad. Before starting packing you should pick a country to settle down. And depending on your choice you may become either an ESL or an EFL teacher. By the way, you may be both.
The first fits the bill if you want to teach non-native English speakers in countries where the language is official or mandatory. Whereas the second is for those, who want to teach in such countries, where English isn’t the official language, for example, in Asian countries.
Let’s figure out how to choose a course depending on your goals, preferences, and skills.
TEFL
It is one of the most recognized teaching certifications. Most employers worldwide require it. This qualification fits to teach people in such countries as Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, and others where English isn’t the main language. It is one of the most important requirements in many schools, language centers, and private institutions. It is enough to be aware of the most effective teaching techniques and make a rapport with students who speak a different language.
TESOL
This one allows you to teach non-natives in English-speaking countries, such as Canada, the US, and the rest. Furthermore, if you are into academic achievements and think of getting a master’s degree, you will be able to get it in TESOL. English-speaking countries, consider the TESOL qualification is relevant to domestic teaching, whereas TEFL leads to teaching abroad.
TESL
Another similar certification also lets you teach people who don’t usually speak English in their motherland. The distinction between TESL and TEFL certificates is about teaching location. TESL is similar to TESOL because having it you may work with non-native English speakers, where English is primary. So, if you have TESL you can work in the United States, Canada, Australia, or the United Kingdom.
CELTA
CELTA provides information about teaching adults. So, in comparison with TEFL, TESL, and TESOL, there is no information about working with kids and teens. Another difference from the previous courses is that there is only one organization with the right to teach CELTA. Fortunately, there are many branches of the Cambridge English Assessment. It equals a four-week or 120-hour TEFL course. Despite the fact that there is the only regulating body, all CELTA schools can work independently, in other words, they can choose materials and provide some help without approval from the main department.
DELTA
There is a diploma in teaching English to adults. As CELTA, DELTA is provided and offered only by the University of Cambridge. As for the main difference, DELTA requires candidates to have at least one year of teaching experience to enroll in the course. It is quite intensive and informative, so it’s better to take it when you are into getting more professional accomplishments, especially credentials from Cambridge University. Apparently, it will be impressive to have such a mention on your resume, however, it isn’t necessary to have it to teach English abroad.
Myths and questions
Most institutions around the globe consider TEFL and TESOL as interchangeable courses because both of them allow teaching non-native speakers, the only difference is the choice of location.
In spite of the fact that CELTA is believed to be the most respected certificate for English tutors, it doesn’t mean you must take it to teach abroad. As we mentioned, it is equivalent to TEFL but doesn’t provide knowledge about teaching kids and teenagers. Moreover, CELTA is quite expensive and takes all time to study, so it’s hard to handle it even with a part-time job.
So, CELTA isn’t the only way to become an ESL teacher, as we figured out, TEFL certification is more than enough to get a job abroad. CELTA is just a brand of TEFL certification that is offered and regulated by a specific institution. So, don’t be surprised to see other similar offers, for example, Trinity certification. Accreditation and program standards are more important things when it comes to getting a course.
Depending on your skills and preferences such certifications as CELTA and TEFL may become more or less relevant. If you are interested in playing games, imitating sounds, and singing songs with children, CELTA won’t help you at all. And having it to apply for a job in Asia doesn’t make any sense because such countries as Thailand and China usually look for ESL teachers for children.
However, if you love thought-provoking topics and critical thinking it’s better to opt for CELTA to teach only adults in language schools. Unfortunately, most of the CELTA providers can’t flaunt that they provide any help to teachers with regard to job search. Hence, it isn’t the best option especially if you take CELTA in one country and plan to work in another. You just won’t get any help beyond the place where you are studying. Think of your confidence, whether you are ready to cross the labor market alone.
Which certificate to take?
In a nutshell, it doesn’t matter what acronym you will turn to. What is more important is accreditation and a valuable course program. As an ESL/EFL teacher, you must meet certain standards, so it’s better to choose a reliable leader in the teaching realm.
There are some crucial things which must be in a course:
- at least 100 hours of theory and coursework, equals 4 weeks of studying on the spot;
- at least 6 hours of practice with real students;
- high-qualified native trainers, who teach you and provide feedback;
- a course has a particular curriculum, which is accredited and controlled by one of the reliable accrediting bodies.
Such information will come in handy when you start searching for a TEFL course. As we mentioned, there isn’t the only awarding body in comparison with CELTA, so you have to be careful and check all points above to pick a provider, who will tick all the boxes with regard to standards of teaching. Also, help with job searching, making a resume, and visa documents will help you not to get lost.
Conclusion
If you are dreaming of working abroad as an ESL teacher, you should start with a place. Think of the climate, salary, and other important details. In our teacher’s blog, you may find interesting information about teaching in different countries. When you know where you are going, you will be able to choose a course for teachers wisely. And after checking a provider in terms of all points, you may study. Frankly speaking, it takes much time to find a reliable TEFL provider.
International Certification provides top-notch support in terms of studying, making an impressive resume, and even searching for a job. Its online course TEFL/TESOL is accredited by one of the most respected accrediting bodies ACCRIN, which is located in the UK. There are two courses in one, which means you can easily work in both types of countries, English and non-English speaking countries.
You will be taught and supported by qualified and certified trainers, who are also native speakers. Also, you may select a course duration to fit it into your typical schedule. Getting a 120-hour TEFL/TESOL course you will know about learning approaches and teaching people of different ages. So, you will always have a chance to work with students. Enroll in an online TEFL/TESOL course with a huge discount.
