TESOL, TEFL and CELTA forum
13 January 2012
TESOL, or Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages, is an association that allows potential teachers to become certified to teach English as a second language overseas. Currently there is a high demand for English around the globe so more and more teachers are becoming TESOL certified. This will not only look good on your resume but it will also give you teaching experience and credentials.
Domestic Courses
Sign up for a TESOL certification course in your area. These are usually held in a university and classes meet a few times a week. You'll earn a TESOL teaching certificate, learn valuable teaching skills and understand what to expect when teaching overseas. Some of these courses include one-on-one teaching and tutoring experience. Before signing up for a course, make sure that it is reputable and offers the most teaching experience for the money. Some of these courses include the Oxford Seminars and the American TESOL website. Both of these sites offer courses to take and information regarding how to earn your TESOL certificate.
International Courses
Earn your TESOL certificate while overseas. You'll not only earn your TESOL certification, you'll experience another culture and the opportunity to teach actual ESL students. As opposed to earning your certificate in your home country, you'll take your course in an environment where English is not the primary language. Not only will you immerse yourself in a new culture; you'll meet people and learn a new language as well. TESOL courses are offered worldwide and can be found at sites that include Exploring Abroad.
Job Placement
TESOL courses not only earn a certificate, but offer job placement services as well, recommended for first-time teachers. Job placement services are included in the TESOL course fee and you may apply for one job. You may enter into the job service as soon as you have completed your TESOL course. You will then have the option to choose a few countries that you would like to work in. Although the first job placement is free, multiple placements may require a fee.