The Advantages of Gaining a Tefl Qualification
The rise in demand for the English language has meant that there is need for English-speaking teachers who have obtained the right qualifications and training to teach the language by obtaining a TEFL (Teaching English as a foreign language) certificate. Known by several other names including TESOL and ESL the certificate-bearer can enjoy several advantages that include the following:
Intensive Learning
The qualification provides an opportunity for the TEFL teacher to acquire a comprehensive understanding of the English language which can sometimes be forgotten overtime. The TEFL modules include an intensive study of the grammar and phonetics of English to ensure that the student has an adequate and in-depth knowledge himself before teaching others. The modules include information on how to teach difficult grammar in a relaxed and comfortable way so that students are not intimidated but enjoy the learning experience of it.
TEFL teachers are shown how to structure lessons according to individual needs through a range of exercises that include practical activities, reading and listening comprehensions and tips on effective classroom management. The in-depth knowledge gives the TEFL teacher the self-confidence to teach foreign students in a creative and interactive environment to ensure that an enjoyable learning experience is provided that will enable the students to be able to communicate effectively in the English language.
Cultural awareness
Obtaining a TEFL qualification can help you nurture your interest in a country and its culture. The qualification is recognized worldwide and gives the opportunity to travel to the country of choice and while working to explore different aspects that are of particular interest.
Prospective students who are to be taught by the TEFL-certified teacher can be school children or adults wanting to learn English for leisure or business and courses are tailored according to needs. For businesses there are courses that deal with specific business needs like secretarial or negotiation skills, business and financial language or writing and presentation skills. Individuals can be taught in a classroom environment or through one-on-one tutoring to allow the teacher and students the opportunity to learn about the lives of people living in a different cultural environment to theirs.
Enhanced Resume
Obtaining a TEFL qualification and teaching abroad can enhance your resume and open further teaching opportunities for you. A TEFL teacher can face a number of different scenarios while abroad for which he will need both social skills with the ability to prioritize while communicating effectively at all levels. The different areas that are involved while pursuing an overseas teaching position can portray you as an interesting, enthusiastic and versatile candidate who is not afraid of challenges.
Global networking
TEFL can help you to network with a group of people who are all interested in following careers which are not mundane but are both different and exciting. Social networking can offer the chance to meet like-minded individuals and share tips and ideas based on individual experiences.
An interactive site that gives visitors an opportunity to interact with others after registration iswww.TEFL.com. Here there are personal accounts of those who have worked abroad with free newsletters and vacancies advertised and you can post your resume on the site to be personally contacted by potential employers. Depending on whom you choose to do the course with, most if not all of the course providers offer a placement service in which they recommend reputable agencies/schools abroad who can secure a job for you after you complete their application process for examplewww.tefl-jobs.co,ukandwww.esl-jobs.com
If you have not found a placement abroad to your liking you can still be a TEFL teacher in your home country. There are many foreign people who want to learn English or you can apply to work with TEFL teaching organizations with training. Often those seeking English teachers request aCELTAcertification so if you wish to further your training you should look into this course. It is an advanced course which means you may have more opportunities abroad as often people advertise for CELTA-qualified people specifically.
Safety and security
TEFL-related projects are researched and assessed by experts to ensure safety and security for the teachers. There is support available on all aspects of the project including travel to and from the country, accommodation and flight transfers and TEFL support workers are available at all times for any emergency that might crop up. However, taking extra precautions is important when abroad and being aware of areas that are particularly risky or prone to trouble and which should be avoided.
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