The different types of TEFL certification available make it important to research all possible options before learning to teach English as a second language. Since there are many types of classes, you can usually find one that suits both your timing and the method you prefer to teach. Historically there have been two ways to take a TEFL course, the first is face-to-face and the second is an online course. Approximately 30,000 people are currently being TEFL certified each year, with 5,000 taking classroom courses and 25,000 taking online courses.
There are a number of options when it comes to TEFL certification. Training methods vary due to the nature of the course itself, with the main difference being the method of course delivery. A 4 week face-to-face course is a face-to-face course where the trainees are taught alongside their peers and includes the very important component of teaching practice with real English students. In contrast, an online course is by its very nature completed independently with the support of an online tutor either via email or chat. Although an online course is a convenient option in terms of cost and accessibility, the downside is that no classroom practice can be completed since the course is online. Instead, a CD with teacher’s lessons is viewed and commented on.
Typically a TEFL certification course lasts 4 weeks and is more than often completed in the country where you plan to teach English. The course is quite intensive and is designed to provide a solid foundation and introduction to teaching English and teaching practice with actual English students. Teaching skills, knowledge and experience will be improved in actual teaching after the course. The most popular locations for TEFL certification are Thailand, Spain, Italy and Costa Rica.
Another option is TEFL certification online. The main advantage of this type of course is its flexibility and price. The course can be completed from virtually anywhere with a PC and completed at a self-determined pace. The course can be completed between 2 weeks and 6 months depending on the time available. Since you don’t have to attend a training center abroad for 4 weeks, this type of courses is obviously a much cheaper option.
Another option is a combined TEFL course. This is a combination of the two methods above. Trainees complete the online TEFL certification course and then attend a training center for two weeks of continuing education and classroom practice. This is a good option for those who don’t use their full potential in intense environments. The teaching practice component of the combined degree is offered at four locations: Thailand, Italy, Spain and the USA.
The quality of training and certification received upon completion of a TEFL course is related to the time spent on training and the number of teaching practice hours completed. The 4-week TEFL course and the combined TEFL course include approximately 130 hours of training and 6 to 10 hours of classroom practice. The industry standard recommendation for a face-to-face course is 6 hours of classroom practice. The online course includes 100 hours of training and post-course options for face-to-face components of teaching practice at home or abroad.
Thanks to Luke Fisher | #TEFL #Certification #Training #Options #Teaching #English