Are you someone who is passionate about teaching and exploring the world at the same time? Do you have a yearning to earn while traveling across various countries? If yes, Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) could be the perfect career choice for you. But, with so many options available, it can be daunting to choose the right TEFL certification course for you. This ultimate guide provides comprehensive information about the different types of TEFL certification courses available, providing you with ample information to help you make an informed decision.
Online TEFL Certification Course
Online TEFL certification courses have been gaining popularity over the years because of the flexibility they offer. These courses typically range from 120-180 hours and can be completed within three to six months. Moreover, it can be accomplished from anywhere in the world. The certificate awarded for this particular course can help to land you a job in different parts of the world, but the teaching experience and face-to-face interaction that comes with classroom training may be a hurdle.
Face-to-Face TEFL Certification Course
Face-to-face TEFL certification courses are typically undertaken over a duration of four to six weeks and provide an intense learning experience with practical teaching opportunities. This method offers trainees an immersion in the practical aspects of teaching a foreign language in a classroom setting. This hands-on experience also helps you to develop relationships with other trainees in the group, which helps you gain new perspectives and learn from their experiences. However, face-to-face study can be expensive, and the constraints of obtaining a visa can hinder your availability to participate in some programs.
Hybrid TEFL Certification Course
The Hybrid TEFL certification course offers both online and classroom training options. This course provides trainees with a balance between online work and hands-on learning experience. The hybrid course allows learners the flexibility of managing their schedules, as well as face-to-face interaction. Moreover, going through a hybrid TEFL certification course, you can broaden the extent of your scope and learning experience. It is an excellent alternative for someone looking to get certified, but their location is a hindrance.
Specialized TEFL Certification Course
If you are looking to teach in specific environments, such as young learners or business English, then specialized TEFL certification courses are an excellent choice. Courses are tailored to the specific age groups or people in a particular industry that trainees will be teaching. Specialized TEFL courses help to provide a deeper understanding of their target audience, so candidates will be prepared to deliver their teaching in the most effective way possible.
University-Affiliated TEFL Certification Course
University-Affiliated TEFL certification courses offer the highest levels of accreditation with the rigours of university learning and teaching. With an inherent affiliation with a University, these courses ensure the quality of the learning experience. University-affiliated TEFL courses offer the potential for credit for continued studies in some instances. The cost of studying on university grounds is also substantially higher than other less formal courses.
Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is becoming increasingly popular among graduates, professionals, and individuals who are looking for a change of career. Whether you are looking to teach required English courses to non-native speakers or become a teacher who travels internationally, getting a TEFL certification is an ideal pathway towards achieving these goals. However, there are various types of TEFL certification courses available, each providing a unique level of training and learning outcomes. This blog post will present you with five types of TEFL certification courses that you can consider when choosing a course that suits your needs.
- Online TEFL Certifications:
Online TEFL certification courses have become increasingly popular over the past few years. They generally provide 120-hour training, consisting of written assignments, quizzes, and tutor feedback sections. The online courses offer flexibility and allow you to study at your own pace, making them an excellent choice for individuals who have other commitments. Online TEFL courses tend to be more affordable compared to classroom courses. They are popular among individuals who cannot commit to full-time or in-person courses but want to obtain a quality certification.
- In-person TEFL Certification:
In-person TEFL certification courses are conducted globally, and the courses provide immersive learning experiences. In-person courses involve workshops, classroom observations, practice teaching, and feedback. Most in-person TEFL courses offer 140-160 hours of training. In-person courses have the most significant benefit of real-time instruction by experienced TEFL instructors. It enables the participants to learn and hone their skills while interacting with peers.
- Hybrid TEFL Courses:
Hybrid TEFL certification courses are a combination of in-person and online courses. The online portion of the course usually takes place before or after in-person modules. Participants get to experience the best of both the worlds, hybrid TEFL courses offer students the flexibility of accessing study material online and time with instructors to master skills.
- Specialized TEFL Certification:
Specialized TEFL certifications are tailored to a specific audience or situation. They include Young Learners, Exam Preparation, Business English, and Teaching in a specific location. A specialized TEFL certification can help you stand out in the job market and can offer you niche courses.
- University-affiliated TEFL Certification:
Universities offer accredited TEFL courses with academic rigour. University-affiliated TEFL courses tend to be more extensive, detailed, and rigorous, the course usually ranges from 4-16 weeks. Participants have access to a wide range of academic resources, including libraries, qualified staff and online resources. Moreover, these courses are widely recognized by employers globally and offer participants the chance to network and build relationships in a university setting.
Conclusion:
Ultimately, the choice of a TEFL certification course depends on your situation, including the flexibility to take time off, budget constraints, your preferred learning style, and your teaching goals. With the vital information provided in this guide, you should be able to decide which is right for you. Whatever you choose, a TEFL certification is an excellent opportunity for the aspiring English teacher to interact with different cultures and communities while enjoying the adventure of travel. Best of luck and happy teaching!
Choosing the right TEFL course is a vital factor in your quest to become an effective and successful teacher. Each course offers unique benefits in terms of flexibility, certification, and learning outcomes. Consider your budget, preferences, and opportunities that lead to job prospects before selecting a TEFL course. Ensure that the course you choose is aligned with your career goals and teaches you the skills you need to succeed as a teacher. Remember, with the right course and determination, you can start your journey as an excellent TEFL teacher!