Jean Willis

Mark Crocker Alumni Experiences Child development is an extremely complicated process that can be broken down into many different and well-defined stages. When attempting to further examine and analyze these, countless internal and external factors need to be taken into account. Most (evolutionary) psychologists and biologists would agree that child development involves the prenatal period and the life of children that extends all the way to the end of their adolescent years (those being 18 and/or 19). The Main Stages of Child Development The Conflicting Theories of Child Development Piaget the Pioneer Piaget's Main Beliefs Piaget's Four Main Categories of Child Development Criticism of Piaget's Theory Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post: ...  [Read more]

Before discussing the demand of different TEFL teachers we must first be aware of the different roles that these teachers can take. Perhaps the first distinction or grouping would be between online and onsite teachers. What are the different roles TEFL teachers take? For online teaching there are a few types of teaching jobs that you can undertake. These include: For onsite teaching there are also a few types of teaching jobs available, such as: Which teachers are in most demand? What other roles can TEFL teachers move into? Conclusion There is no single answer to this question as it depends very much upon whether you want to work online or onsite and if so, which country you are considering. It will also depend to a certain extent on your qualifications and experience. In general, the...  [Read more]

An ambitious ESL Teacher, with a passion for people. In my spare time, I voluntarily tutor students online. My husband Willie and I live in South Africa with our son Retief. My favourite things include my dogs, family time, exercise, and of course POTATO CHIPS (sometimes even at the same time)! Lourien Prinsloo Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas One of the most valuable resources to have in life is an educated mind. In this last decade, the educational world was and still is constantly evolving, especially with the rise of technology and a pandemic stricken worldwide that is influencing millions of people’s educational growth. Lourien Prinsloo TEFL Information Alumni Experiences This article focuses on the topic of teacher burnout. What is it and how can you avoid it? Lourien...  [Read more]

Ahmed Taha TEFL Information Teaching Ideas This article explains what TBLT is and how it differs from more traditional approaches to teaching. Why has it become such a popular teaching method for languages? Will it continue to be popular or will it be replaced by another approach? Do you use TBLT in your teaching? What are the challenges and benefits of the approach? Why do you think that a task-based approach in teaching is considered a good approach? What is a task? Rod Ellis' description is especially useful because it focuses on the role as: Three major characteristics of tasks are defined in the description. Conclusion Are you ready to teach English abroad or online? Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials! References and further reading...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences The popular saying which states: never judge a book by the cover has once again reminded me to always be optimistic about a new experience. Before I entered the school I had already concluded what a bad experience it would be in this new environment which I would pass on numerous occasions and hear different external noises coming from inside of the school, I imagined how hard the job of a teacher could be. My First Day at School Using Resources Multiple Intelligences Evaluation Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Chantal S. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. On Monday, September 3, 2018, the...  [Read more]

After leaving the UK to travel in the mid-1990s, Mark has to date visited over 50 countries across six continents. After completing a TEFL course in Phuket, Thailand, he decided to make it his base and has since worked as an online TEFL trainer and a freelance writer. Mark Crocker Alumni Experiences Teachers are always looking for ideas that might help them to better understand their students. In this post, one of our graduates explores the child development theories put forward by the Swiss psychologist Jean Piaget. Mark Crocker Alumni Experiences Every TEFL student enjoys their own unique experience, both during and after their course. In this post, an ITTT graduate talks about their own journey from EFL student to EFL teacher. Mark Crocker Alumni Experiences Once...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences In the past, some scientists thought young learners do not learn as fast as adults. However today even parents are aware of the importance of starting learning a second language early. Advantages of Early Start Consider the Mix of Abilities Choice of Activities Nursery Rhymes Flashcards GamesThe Main Problems Young English Learners Face In China Stories Are you ready to teach English to younger children? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Safak Ä°. When people start learning at early ages of their life, they increase the probability of gaining better language skills and favorable attitudes to other languages and cultures. Moreover, it will be possible for them to acquire native...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences While English isn't the most spoken language on earth, it is the language that is spoken in most places in the world. This is what designates English as a Global Language. If you want to study Neurosurgery at Stanford University, you'll have to know English. You have a startup company in France, that's going to revolutionize the smartphone industry. If you want to have your phones manufactured in China, you'll need to know English. You're from Russia, and spending your holiday at a hotel in North Bali. When you go out to the restaurant to order coffee from a native Balinese, you'll need to know at least enough English to get your needs met. Standard Means of Communication Benefits Opportunities Self-development Are you ready to spread English across...  [Read more]

Jon ITTT Alumni Experiences There are many learning techniques and the course covered four major groups – constructivists, maturationists, environmentalists, and others. Maturationist, Environmentalist and Constructivist and Other Theories Discovery Learning Native Language Learning Discovery Learning and EFL Students Downsides of Discovery Learning Are you ready to start teaching English abroad? Listen to this blog post Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Kathi Z. The fundamentals of the maturation theory is the natural biological process humans go through. There is a natural sequence of events that take place despite external stimuli. The fundamentals of the environmental theory is the environment in which we exist. How we behave is a...  [Read more]

Dressing appropriately for a TEFL job interview is essential as it creates a positive first impression on your potential employer and demonstrates your professionalism. Here are some tips on how to dress for a TEFL job interview: Dress code expectations for TEFL job interviews vary depending on the country and institution, but there are some general guidelines to help you make a good impression: To make a good impression during a TEFL job interview, it is best to avoid wearing distracting or unprofessional colors and styles. Bright, neon colors or flashy patterns can be off-putting and may distract from your qualifications and presentation. Similarly, overly casual attire such as jeans, t-shirts, or sneakers should be avoided as they may give the impression that you are not taking the...  [Read more]

Charlotte Lam Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas In Hong Kong, the education system is competitive where the majority of people try their utmost to study in a better school. They are also required to learn Cantonese, English, and Mandarin starting from kindergarten. In order to get into a renowned school, the Cambridge examination becomes an important criterion for getting into a famous school, and therefore, Cambridge English lessons become much more popular in Hong Kong city. Cambridge exam: Young learners Planning Cambridge lessons for children in kindergarten 1. Choose theme book 2. Plan curriculum 3. Prepare teaching aids Teaching Cambridge in a fun way Resources for teachers Are you ready to teach English abroad or online? Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in...  [Read more]

Anna Domiczek Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas Total Physical Response is a very successful teaching method that can be used for both children and adults, particularly for beginner and lower-level learners. This English teaching approach, developed by Dr. James Asher, has been applied for almost thirty years. Asher's language learning method is built around the coordination of speech and action, and its purpose is to teach language through physical activity. Is TPR Beneficial in Online ESL Teaching? How Can TPR be Used in Teaching ESL to Young Learners? Simon Says TPR Storytelling TPR Songs Scavenger Hunt Challenge Charades Pronunciation Conclusion Are you ready to teach English abroad or online? Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials! In...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences As a noun, development refers to the end of a process of bringing something from latency to fulfillment (American Heritage Dictionary, 1993). As a verb, it means to "cause to become more complex or intricate; to cause gradually to acquire specific roles, functions, or forms, to grow by degrees into a more advanced or mature state." In biology, the term means "to progress from earlier to later stages of a life cycle; to progress from earlier to later or from simpler to more complex states of evolution" (American Heritage Dictionary, 1993). Miller (1983) asserted that "What is critical about developmental theory is that it focuses on change over time." Every child is unique Theoretical aspects by J. Piaget Theoretical aspects by L. Vygotsky Are you...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Put simply, children think and learn differently than adults. Jean Piaget, as one of the leading psychologists to explore these differences, puts forth the four stages of cognitive development, unified by an overarching idea called constructivism. He specifically focuses on children rather than all learners and, further still, focuses on development rather than learning. His constructivism theory posits that children form an understanding of the world around them and modify that representation based on their experiences and shifting environments that either contradict or confirm what they have built. (1) Therefore, in working with young learners, teachers should be mindful of this as they promote the acquisition of English as a second language. The...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Just imagine, how many teachers are there in a world right now? And each and everyone has a different individual character with confidence, as one of the indispensable personal qualities. In my opinion, the main reason why being self-confident and increasing personal confidence is crucial for teachers is so as to allow students to believe, what they are teaching is correct, has importance, and also to find respect from the students side. So, now I am going to list out some points, which, in my humble opinion, may help teachers to increase confidence. Lesson Planning Uniform Self-education Teaching bigger classrooms Are you ready to work on your confidence? Take a TEFL course today! Related Articles: Listen to this blog post This post was written by...  [Read more]

At ITTT’s TEFL training centre in the Canary Islands you will have the opportunity to explore the world whilst you study and qualify for your TEFL certificate on our beautiful island of Gran Canaria, also known as The Little Continent! You would be forgiven for thinking you are in the Sahara Desert as you travel across the sand dunes on a camel or in a dune buggy. Imagine you are in Peru, as you hike through rainforests. Soak up the history and culture in the cosmopolitan city of Las Palmas, one of the few cities in the world with its own beaches. Enjoy scuba diving in your free time and discover hundreds of dive sites and more than 700 marine species, some of which are unique to the Canary Islands. You can try windsurfing and surfing and enjoy the annual world championships held...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas "Teachers must learn how to teach… they need only to be taught more effective ways of teaching", (B. F. Skinner 1972). Understanding how these theories of learning suggested by philosophers can bring or has brought about a change in teaching helps teachers to be very effective in the classroom as they aid in shaping the lives of young men and women for the future. Two great theories of learning that have impacted teaching are Behaviorism and Cognitive development theory. Listen to this blog post: Behavioral and Cognitive Development Theory in Teaching Why Behavioral and Cognitive Development Theory is Important? How Teachers Can Use This Theory? Behavioral and Cognitive Development Theory for Students How Does It Work?...  [Read more]

Our Ecuador TEFL training center is located in the south of the country in the peaceful and safe city of Loja. Loja, is the capital of Loja Province and is a city with a rich history in the arts. In almost every square around the city you will likely find some musical or cultural event happening and Loja is known as the Music and Culture Capital of Ecuador. Throughout the city you will find examples of public art as well as exquisite examples of colonial architecture such as the city gates and the Church of San Sebastian. Loja is not a big city but it has plenty of bars, restaurants, cafes and shops and you can spend a pleasant day wandering through the cobbled streets of the colonial district. Outside the city there is the Podocarpus National Park, a vast cloud forest covering an area of...  [Read more]

Cebu is one of the most developed provinces of the Philippines and is the main centre of commerce, trade, education and industry in the central and southern part of the archipelago. Cebu is currently a city of vast growth, but it has still managed to maintain its cultural roots making it an interesting and exciting location to take a TEFL course in the Philippines. Cebu City, known as the ‘Queen City of the South’, has become a thriving, bustling centre that boasts an impressive array of restaurants, world-class golf courses and shopping malls. Only a few minutes away from the city you will also find numerous white sandy beaches, crystal blue waters and swaying palm trees, all of which provides a perfect destination for your TEFL course training. Once you have successfully completed...  [Read more]

ITTT's TEFL training course in Colombia is located in Chía "The Moon City," a municipality located 20 minutes by car or bus from Bogotá. Bogotá is the capital and the most important city of Colombia and its natural charm makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Latin America. It is the city that most represents life in Colombia with good coffee, Latin rhythms and buildings from the colonial past. Located in the heart of the South American continent, Colombia is a fascinating country full of historical and cultural heritage along with beautiful landscapes. The country has 53 natural parks and protected areas, along with coasts on both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean providing over 300 beaches to suit any preference. Colombia is an amazing place to visit, live,...  [Read more]

Uruguay is South America’s hidden gem, known for its relaxed lifestyle and widely considered one of the most stable nations in South America. Whether you want a city that’s rich in history and culture, rural areas filled with nature and high-quality wineries, or charming, picturesque beach towns, you’ll find a laid-back vibe, high quality of life, and friendly, welcoming communities. Montevideo, Uruguay’s capital, is filled with charm has a charming, old-world feel. Located near the coast, it boasts a waterfront promenade, or rambla, that stretches 13 miles long. Along the rambla, you’ll see locals walking, running, socializing, and enjoying sunsets. The Ciudad Vieja, or the Old City, is Montevideo’s historic quarter, which is filled with cafes, museums, theatres, outdoor...  [Read more]

Known as the 'City of Joy', Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) is well-known for its artistic, literary and cultural heritage. As India's former capital, the city is home to many fine buildings, museums and galleries. While here, you can take a walk over the Howrah Bridge, an engineering marvel built in 1943, often referred to as the world's busiest bridge; you can visit the Ramakrishna Temple, the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission worldwide and marvel at the Victoria Memorial, the city's pride and joy, with its extensive historical collections, fascinating architecture and beautiful waterways and gardens. This truly is a wonderful city that has much to offer students both during and after their training course. The TEFL certificate you will receive is fully recognised as a top quality...  [Read more]

Having hosted the 2008 Summer Olympics, Beijing has been transformed into a model of Chinese modernity and offers visitors a taste of the country's urban essence like no other metropolis can. English teaching jobs are abundant throughout the city and those having earned their TEFL certificate with ITTT are guaranteed meaningful employment here or elsewhere around the country. Brimming with culture and history, Beijing is one of a few Chinese cities to have retained a large number of its cultural relics. The Forbidden City, the Great Wall, the Summer Palace and the ancient Qianmen area have all remained culturally intact and provide a fascinating glimpse into the past of this rapidly modernizing country. While daytime Beijing offers visitors a wealth of cultural attractions to experience,...  [Read more]

Take our TEFL training course in Brittany and learn to teach English as a foreign language in a picturesque village in the northwest of France. Plelauff is a charming village situated in the Cotes-d'Armor region of Brittany, close to many age-old villages that date back centuries. Although the TEFL course takes place in a beautiful small village, the location and surrounding areas have all the required facilities and amenities that you will require during your stay. The Brittany region is a wonderland of typical French hamlets for you to explore in your free time. With varied landscapes, amazing cuisine and some of the best wines in the world, this part of France continues to astound both first time visitors and those who return year after year. Summer activities are numerous with the...  [Read more]

A financial powerhouse, an icon of Western civilization, the backyard of the former British Empire, any way you look at it, London commands attention and so too will a TEFL course certificate from the birthplace of the English language. On top of this, we provide efficient job support services so motivated course graduates will find excellent job prospects after they become certified. The course is intensive, but in your free time you can unwind during walks that snake along the banks of the majestic River Thames. You can visit Westminster, Big Ben and watch the changing of the guard in front of Buckingham Palace, all in a day. Or spend an afternoon in Hyde Park before snapping a sunset cityscape picture from atop the London Eye. When it comes to entertainment, no city in the UK rivals...  [Read more]

Our TEFL course centre in Indonesia is located in Surabaya, the second largest city on the exotic island of Java. Since 2007, we have certified hundreds of teachers and helped them find employment in Indonesia, Asia and the rest of the world. Being located in the 'Ring of Fire' and in close proximity to world-class beaches, you will find yourself in a tropical paradise while taking your TEFL course with us in Indonesia. Surabaya provides a wide variety of social and cultural opportunities. It has tasty Indonesian cuisine, great water sport activities, a vibrant nightlife and countless paths and trails for exploring the national parks and volcanoes in the area. The most well-known of these is probably Mt. Bromo, an active volcano that you can walk to the top of and get spectacular views of...  [Read more]

Singapore is one of the most cosmopolitan countries in the world. Once known as the “Jewel of the British Empire”, it is located on the tip of the Malay Peninsula. Its British colonial past is omnipresent with statues of Sir Thomas Raffles with his name appearing in multiple locations throughout the city. Singapore has four official languages: English, which is the language of instruction and government, as well as Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil. Singapore is accessible via direct flights from hundreds of locations as well as a variety of ports by ferry from various parts of Asia. Although it is a bustling city with buildings extending as far as the eye can see, do not be surprised by the impressive greenery and national parks throughout the island. Singapore is also home to a number...  [Read more]

Formerly the capital of South Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is the site of an amazing mix of Eastern and Western culture. Commonly known by its former name, Saigon, HCMC is a superb location for TEFL courses in Vietnam. With a population of over 7 million people, HCMC is Vietnam’s largest city as well as its economic, industrial and financial centre. However, despite its large size and continued development, the city still retains much of its culture and traditions, where city life takes places on the streets in cafes, markets, stalls, shops and many waterside venues. Although recent history has taken its toll on Vietnam, there is an abundance of things to see and do here. Ben Thanh Market is the largest in the city and is a great place to pick up a bargain and to explore HCMC’s...  [Read more]

Nepal is a magical place and taking a TEFL course here will see you studying right in the heart of Kathmandu, Nepal’s most dynamic and sophisticated city. Upon completion of the course, we will help you find a job and you will be well on your way to beginning a wonderful new career teaching EFL. The birthplace of the Buddha, Nepal is nestled among the awe inspiring peaks and foothills of the Himalayas. Its scenery is simply astonishing and offers some of the best hiking opportunities to be found anywhere in the world. Although Nepal is not a wealthy country monetarily, its friendly and welcoming people, its diverse and interesting religions, its cultural history and traditions, as well as its astounding scenery make it a very rich country indeed. Suburban Kathmandu spills out primarily...  [Read more]

Our TEFL course in Mexico is located within the stunning southern state of Chiapas. To the east, the state borders Guatemala and the southern coastline flanks the Pacific Ocean, while to the north and west you will find the neighbouring states of Tabasco, Veracruz and Oaxaca. The training centre is situated in the small town of Chiapa de Corzo which is a quiet, traditional town that provides an authentic Mexican experience that our trainees will never forget. Although small in size, the town itself and the surrounding state of Chiapas has plenty to offer its visitors. Just an hour and a half up a nearby mountain you can get a welcome break from the heat in the quaint colonial town of San Cristóbal de las Casas. This centre of local culture is well worth a visit as you will find numerous...  [Read more]