TEFL Course: Select, Verify, Succeed

Finding a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) course that suits your needs can be an arduous journey. With so many choices out there, how do you select one that's the ideal match? Knowing what criteria should be considered when selecting an effective TEFL/TESOL course will enable you to make informed choices - this comprehensive guide serves as your ultimate TEFL/TESOL course checklist, answering top five frequently asked questions regarding legitimate courses and their registration processes.

Why Is Accreditation So Crucial in TEFL Lesson Plans ?

Accreditation is like the seal of approval; it indicates that a course meets certain academic and professional standards. An accredited TEFL course has been reviewed and approved by an external body before receiving this distinction.

Why Is Accreditation Essential?

When selecting a TEFL course, it is vitally important that it is accredited by an esteemed organization. Accreditation ensures the quality of the program while increasing recognition worldwide - similar to having a passport that makes securing teaching jobs much simpler!

Avoid Accreditation Scams

Be wary of accreditation scams: certain organizations claim to act as accrediting bodies but lack the authority or recognition necessary. Always conduct extensive research in order to validate an accrediting body; an online search or post on a TEFL forum will help confirm whether an accreditation is genuine.

How Long Should an Accredited TEFL Lesson Plans Last?

Duration of TEFL courses is an effective measure of their thoroughness.

The 100-Hour Standard

A genuine TEFL course should typically last at least 100 hours to meet international standards and satisfy employers. A 100-hour TEFL course provides sufficient time for teaching methodologies, lesson planning, classroom management skills and language acquisition to be covered comprehensively.

Estimating Course Completion Times

Don't be misled by the term '100 hours.' That doesn't mean you have to sit through four days straight of classes! These hours could be spread over weeks or even months, depending on the course format and schedule that best meets your learning pace and schedule. It is essential that you choose an opportunity that suits both.

What Qualifications Should a TEFL Course Tutor Have?

Quality in TEFL courses depends heavily on the qualifications and experience of their tutors.

The Value of Qualified Tutors

Ideal TEFL course tutors should have taught abroad and possess degrees in TESOL, English or education - giving them access to firsthand teaching experience that allows for practical advice and insights only available from firsthand knowledge.

How to Research Your Tutors

Make an effort when researching TEFL courses to become acquainted with the tutors. Learn about their educational background, teaching experience and expertise in TESOL. A knowledgeable tutor can offer invaluable insights and practical tips from their own teaching experience.

Are Extremely Affordable TEFL Courses Worth the Money?

While a low-priced TEFL course may seem like a steal, it's important to remember the old saying "You get what you pay for".

The Cons of Low-Priced Courses

Extremely cheap courses often lack comprehensive content, accredited certification and experienced tutors - while they might seem attractive initially, these may not provide you with enough education to become an effective English teacher.

The Value of Investing in Quality

Investment in a comprehensive, fully accredited TEFL course is wise. While such courses may cost more, they provide complete training that covers practical elements like lesson planning and classroom management as well as invaluable tutor feedback to help nurture your development as a teacher.

Can I Check If My TEFL Course is Legitimate?

Verifying the legitimacy of a TEFL course can be done in various ways.

Review Graduate Reviews Now

Accreditation of courses is always an important starting point, but reading reviews from graduates of said course is also beneficial - websites like Trustpilot provide impartial reviews from former students who have attended it.

Where can Alumni Teach?

One way of verifying the legitimacy of a TEFL course is by looking at where its alumni are teaching English around the globe - this could be seen as an indicator that their training provides top-tier instruction.

Ease of Certificate Verification

Make sure the course provides a certificate that can easily be verified by potential employers. Some TEFL providers offer an online certificate verification portal where schools can easily check the authenticity of your certificate.

Selecting the ideal TEFL course can have an enormously significant effect on your teaching career. By reviewing these frequently asked questions and their answers, you'll be better equipped to select a program that not only meets but also aligns with your career goals and aspirations. Investing time and energy now into selecting an ideal course will pay dividends later as you embark on your exciting adventure as an English teacher abroad - good luck with the hunt!