What Is A Teacher Certification

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas As stated in Unit 1, a good teacher "cares about his/her teaching, but cares even more about the learning of the students". This statement emphasizes the fact that an effective teacher should not only maintain a good and positive attitude towards their teaching but should maintain a good relationship with the students while creating the most engaging and friendly environment as possible so that the students can acquire the skills they need to be successful. Patience Student-Teacher Relationships Within the Lesson Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials! This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Lucy E. Please note that this blog post...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences In today's world, teaching English has become a mainstream job, no longer limited to native speakers. Everywhere you go, you will find nationals from various countries teaching English with sometimes rather strong accents. What are their motivations and why would schools choose non-natives to teach English in the first place? Job Requirements Benefits of Learning Other Languages China as The Biggest Market Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials! This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Patrick B. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. While traveling through Asia or South...  [Read more]

TEFL certification is the qualification that new English language teachers require to be eligible to apply for most teaching jobs, no matter where they are located. However, as there are no official guidelines governing TEFL certification, it can be a difficult task sifting through the many options available. An internet search will bring up a wide array of courses with huge variations in study time and cost, making the choice even harder. How many study hours should I look for when researching TEFL certification? In-class TEFL certification Online TEFL certification Combined TEFL certification Other types of TEFL certification TEFL course packages One simple way to categorize different TEFL certification courses is to look at the average amount of study hours, which are usually...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences A teacher must assume many different roles as they perform the task of teaching both during the lesson and outside the lesson. By outside the lesson, I am referring to the Lesson Planning, materials to be used set up and classroom organization. During the lesson is, of course, the actual teaching of the students. As listed in Unit 2 there are 6 roles in total including Instructor, Facilitator, Mentor, Psychologist, Counsellor, and Policeman. These roles are true for all levels of teaching and are modified to suit the age and level of the students. In the case of teaching Younger Learners, it is very important to consider their age in terms of attention span, interests and sense of imagination and fun. Perhaps even more important is to consider the...  [Read more]

In the wake of globalization and a rising demand for English proficiency worldwide, ESL (English as a Second Language) teachers emerge as vital educators. They instruct English Language Learners (ELLs), individuals whose first language isn't English, aiming to elevate their spoken and written English fluency to specific standards. How is an ESL teacher different from a foreign language teacher? What age groups do ESL teachers work with? Where do ESL teachers work? How do I become an ESL teacher? What are the benefits of being an ESL teacher? How do I get my first job as an ESL teacher? While both teach languages, ESL educators are specialized in teaching English to non-native speakers, often without sharing a common first language. Their teaching approach emphasizes...  [Read more]

Teacher burnout and stress are common challenges faced by TEFL educators due to the demanding nature of the job. Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. It can lead to feelings of frustration, cynicism, and a sense of inefficacy in your teaching role. Stress, on the other hand, is the body's natural response to pressure or threats, which can be heightened in a foreign language teaching environment. It's essential to recognize the signs of burnout and stress early on to prevent them from affecting your teaching effectiveness and overall well-being. 1. Establish Boundaries: Set clear boundaries between work and personal life to avoid overworking yourself. Allocate specific times for work and relaxation, and try not to bring...  [Read more]

Becoming a successful TEFL teacher is a journey that involves continuous learning, adaptation, and growth. The timeline for achieving success in this field varies for each individual based on factors such as prior experience, qualifications, dedication, and opportunities. It's essential to understand that success in TEFL is a gradual process that requires patience and perseverance. To kickstart your journey towards success as a TEFL teacher, you need to lay a solid foundation. This includes obtaining a recognized TEFL certification, which provides you with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach English as a foreign language. Additionally, gaining classroom experience through practicum opportunities or volunteer work can help you hone your teaching abilities and adapt to...  [Read more]

A TEFL teacher differs from a foreign language teacher in several key ways: To become a TEFL teacher, you will need the following qualifications: A Bachelor's degree: While not always a strict requirement, many employers prefer candidates with a Bachelor's degree in any field. TEFL/TESOL certification: Most employers require a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certificate. These programs provide the necessary training in language teaching methods, classroom management, and lesson planning. Proficiency in English: You must be a native English speaker or demonstrate a high level of proficiency in English, often through exams like IELTS or TOEFL. Teaching experience: While not always mandatory, having prior teaching...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences I have been teaching for almost 5 years now. My teaching career, I should say is at the beginner level. But I rather call it the aspirational level. At this level, I am in the stage of acquiring different qualifications to have more advantages and gain a wider scope in teaching. But as I seek more qualifications, I slowly understand what is important for early-career teachers like me. My Start Setting up Goals Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Chiedizberg J. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. In my 5-year teaching career, it wasn't an easy road. In the first year of my teaching career, after...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences What is the role of the teacher in English learning? Although 'teacher-centered education' was taught in the past, 'student-centered education' is more emphasized in the modern era. Accordingly, the role of the teacher is also changing from the teacher who delivers the knowledge of the subject to the teacher who facilitates students' successful learning. It is important to recognize that teaching and learning are an integral part of each other. (Harmer, 2007). Teaching practice should not be simply 'one-way' delivery of knowledge to students. Teachers should play a role in motivating students to participate in learning. A variety of learning methods should be tried to enjoy the process of learning a foreign language rather than the result of...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be daunting, especially when moving to a new country. As a TEFL teacher, you may wonder what support is available to help you navigate the challenges of teaching in a foreign land. This guide will provide you with insights into the various forms of support available to TEFL teachers in a new country. Before embarking on your TEFL journey, it is essential to ensure that you have adequate pre-departure support. This support can come in various forms, such as cultural orientation sessions, language training, visa assistance, and logistical guidance. Many TEFL providers offer pre-departure support to help teachers prepare for their new environment. Additionally, online resources, forums, and social...  [Read more]

Before embarking on your journey to teach English as a foreign language, it is crucial to receive adequate pre-departure support. This support can come in various forms, such as orientation sessions, cultural training, and guidance on visa applications and legal requirements. Organizations offering TEFL programs often provide detailed information on the destination country, including cultural norms, teaching expectations, and living conditions. Additionally, they may offer assistance in finding accommodation, setting up a bank account, and obtaining health insurance. Pre-departure support aims to help teachers feel prepared and confident as they start their teaching adventure abroad. Once you arrive in the foreign country, in-country support becomes essential for TEFL teachers. This...  [Read more]

Across the globe, there are five widely accepted levels of EFL learners, which are represented in the teaching materials and book series available for students and teachers. These levels are commonly referred to as: Note: Any levels above these are typically termed 'advanced' and aren't usually taught in standard settings. Please note that different curricula may categorize these levels in various ways. For instance, the Touchstone series from Cambridge uses a four-level scale, which, however, covers the same content as a conventional five-level scale. Another series, "Cutting Edge," encompasses six levels, including an advanced level, along with the standard five. Let's examine some representative syllabus content for each level from the "Cutting Edge" series, 3rd Edition, published by...  [Read more]

More and more employers now expect their English teachers to have a minimum of a 120-hour TEFL certificate. Gaining a TEFL certificate shows your commitment to the profession and gives you an introductory preparation to the knowledge and skills needed to teach English. Types of TEFL course Course content Which course is best for you? There are three main routes to a 120-hour TEFL certification. There are two main areas covered in a TEFL course, 1) Teaching skills 2) Language awareness A good TEFL course will give you a solid grounding in the basics of the English language. You will learn how English grammar works and how you can explain it. Topics covered will typically include; Depending on which type of course you undertake, onsite, combined or online, the topics presented throughout...  [Read more]

First we need to define what TEFL means before looking at the various ways in which it can be examined to provide a teaching certificate. There are various locations in which a TEFL exam can be taken and different methods of instruction, these will also be considered. What does TEFL stand for? What does the TEFL certificate involve and how is it examined? Where can I take the exam? Which type of TEFL exam does ITTT offer? The acronym TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language and it can be used in any situation where the English language is being taught to non-native English speakers. Technically speaking, TEFL refers to teaching English in countries where English is not the native language. It is a term used mainly in the UK and is used interchangeably with the equivalent USA...  [Read more]

Our online TEFL / TESOL courses offer a convenient pathway to acquiring your TEFL / TESOL certification. Designed for flexibility, these courses allow you to study at your own pace, from the comfort of your home. In addition to the fundamental TEFL / TESOL qualification, you have the option to pursue specialized or advanced certifications to enhance your experience and resume. Each online course is accompanied by the guidance of an experienced online tutor. Furthermore, participants benefit from lifelong teaching support and job guidance services. Are online TEFL / TESOL courses comparable to in-person courses? Will I receive a full TEFL / TESOL certificate with an online course? Who accredits ITTT online TEFL / TESOL course certificates? How do I access the study materials for the online...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences I haven't been a teacher for very long, but I have noticed more and more, since taking this course that a classroom can succeed if a teacher knows that teaching isn't just the passing of information. The teacher must understand that there are many different types of learners, that they must build a rapport with these learners, and they must tailor lessons based on these aspects. Teaching is more than just teaching a subject or language; this is the best thing I've learned from my ITTT classes. Types of Learners Rapport Tailoring Lessons Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Erin W. As a foundation, to being teaching, I have learned that there are...  [Read more]

Creating a supportive and inclusive classroom environment is crucial in TEFL as it sets the tone for effective learning and student engagement. When learners feel supported and included, they are more likely to participate actively, take risks in their language learning, and develop confidence in using the language. An inclusive classroom promotes diversity, respect, and empathy among students, fostering a positive learning atmosphere where everyone feels valued and accepted. As a TEFL teacher, your role in establishing this environment is paramount to the success of your students' language acquisition journey. 1. Establish Clear Expectations: Start by setting clear expectations for behavior, participation, and respect in the classroom. Clearly communicate these guidelines to your students...  [Read more]

Before delving into how to prepare for a TEFL certification course, it's essential to understand what the course entails. TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language, and the certification course equips individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach English to non-native speakers. The course covers various aspects of language teaching, including lesson planning, classroom management, language analysis, and teaching methodologies. It typically includes both theoretical learning and practical teaching experience to prepare candidates for a career in English language teaching. To prepare for a TEFL certification course, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the course requirements and expectations. Most courses require a high level of English proficiency, both...  [Read more]

Types of TEFL Courses. There are three primary paths to achieving a 120-hour TEFL TESOL certification: Course Content. Choosing the Right TEFL / TESOL course for You. Video Testimonials. TEFL / TESOL courses generally cover two main areas: Teaching Skills: Language Awareness: Assessment methods vary based on course type, with online courses often featuring end-of-module evaluations and on-site courses culminating in a final examination. Your decision on the type of course to pursue depends on two primary factors: Time Available: in-class courses typically require four weeks in-class training, combined courses around 5/10 days in-class training, while online courses offer flexibility and can be completed from home within six months. Budget: In-class courses are usually the costliest,...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Discipline is inevitable in any training institution or workplace, in every society, there are norms which people must respect to maintain stability in society. Discipline is said to be rules put in place to regulate people's activities or a code of behavior using punishment to correct disobedience. Our focus here will be on classroom discipline which is the practice of teaching others to obey rules or norms which anyone who breaks the rules will be punished. Discipline Guidance Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Bonghanseh Edith M. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. The teacher uses discipline to...  [Read more]

This depends on which course you choose and also on your personal learning style. For example, you have up to 6 months to complete a 120-hour online course but many students complete the course in just a few weeks. You can then begin looking for teaching jobs immediately after your course ends. Your lifetime job search guidance begins the day you enroll in your TEFL/TESOL course, so you can get the conversation started with your ITTT advisor whenever you’re ready. The lifetime job support also includes help with your resume and cover letter. Teaching Jobs Abroad Teaching English Online Jobs Can I get paid to teach English online during the coronavirus crisis? At the moment, recruiting and hiring for in-person teaching jobs is still slow, although schools in some countries...  [Read more]

Feedback is a crucial aspect of teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) as it helps students understand their progress, identify areas for improvement, and stay motivated. Providing constructive feedback allows students to track their language learning journey and enhances their overall language proficiency. Without feedback, students may struggle to identify their strengths and weaknesses, hindering their language development. As a TEFL teacher, it is essential to offer regular and meaningful feedback to support your students' learning and growth. There are several effective strategies for providing feedback to students in a TEFL setting. One approach is to offer specific and actionable feedback that focuses on the language skills being developed. For example, instead of saying...  [Read more]

Building relationships with students is crucial in the field of teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL). Establishing a positive rapport with your students can lead to a more conducive learning environment, increased motivation, and improved academic performance. When students feel comfortable and supported in the classroom, they are more likely to engage actively in the learning process and feel confident to take risks in practicing their language skills. There are several effective strategies that TEFL teachers can use to build relationships with their students. One important approach is to show genuine interest in your students' lives, cultures, and backgrounds. Take the time to learn about their interests, hobbies, and aspirations, and incorporate these into your teaching...  [Read more]

An ESL teacher is different from a foreign language teacher in several key ways: To become an ESL teacher, you typically need the following qualifications: Bachelor's Degree: Most schools and language institutes require ESL teachers to have a bachelor's degree in English, Education, Linguistics, or a related field. TEFL/TESOL Certification: While not always mandatory, having a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) or Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) certificate is highly recommended. These certifications provide training in language teaching methodologies, classroom management, and lesson planning. Language Proficiency: Proficiency in the language you will be teaching is essential. Native or near-native fluency is often required, but some schools may accept...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Everybody knows that English is the most popular language nowadays, and it has been for centuries. Besides the popularity, it is one of the most important and crucial skills and is an international means for communication and expressing one's feelings anytime and anywhere. We can safely surmise that English as a language performs four important services: (a) International Language, (b) Window to new knowledge, (c) Common medium of Reference, and finally (d) Link Language. Listen to this blog post: 1. Role of a teacher 2. Teacher's Responsibilities 3. Teacher's Competence Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course today! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Richa A. Please note that 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]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences The role of a teacher is to help students acquire knowledge so that eventually, they can be competent in understanding and communicating in English. A good teacher is a successful teacher. The success or failure of a teacher lies not only on his/her teaching styles, but more importantly, the learning of the students. To a certain extent, the personality of the teacher may affect the learning of his/her students, but what is more indispensable is the relationship between the teacher and the students. A non-threatening relationship with the students can help to build the students' interests in learning, and create an atmosphere that is conducive and light-hearted for learning. A good teacher is also a responsible teacher who takes time in planning and...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas All children must go to school. It's the law. All children are entrusted to teachers. It's like that. Some of these students love school, some do not. Some children will learn more easily than others and many children will like school and will learn more easily if they like their teacher. Listen to this blog post: The torch of knowledge As a role model: Managing the classroom: The parents Not perfect, teachers? Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course today! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Nwanekezie A. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. From the beginning, a parent who respects the teachers of his child gives him a head start in his...  [Read more]

Incorporating technology into the classroom as a TEFL teacher can bring numerous benefits to both educators and students. Technology can enhance language learning by providing interactive and engaging activities that cater to different learning styles. It can also offer access to authentic materials such as podcasts, videos, and online articles, allowing students to immerse themselves in the language outside of traditional classroom settings. Furthermore, technology enables teachers to provide immediate feedback to students through online quizzes, interactive exercises, and language learning apps, which can help track student progress and tailor lessons to individual needs. There are various practical ways to integrate technology into TEFL lessons effectively. One approach is to use online...  [Read more]