TEFL Course: What is It? Why Should Digital Nomads Care?
What are TESOL and TEFL?
TESOL is the acronym for an internationally acknowledged certificate course. Written out, it’s Teaching English To Speakers of Other Languages. This qualification enables you to become a teacher to those whose native tongue is not English. This course will train you in the basic approaches; effective teaching methods and learning techniques to teach English effectively to non-native-speaking students with diverse backgrounds.
TEFL and TESOL
The acronyms TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) can often be confusing. Both terms are used interchangeably and effectively mean the same thing. In both cases, the aim is to teach English worldwide to those whose first language is not English. A TEFL course is a four-week program that teaches two to three weeks of methodology, English grammar, pronunciation and teaching techniques. In the final week and a half, trainees put what they’ve learned into practice by teaching English to real students while being observed by their trainers.
A TESOL Qualification Adds to Your Worth
Most countries consider a TESOL certification as a prerequisite to securing a job as a teacher in the English language. The TESOL training program familiarizes you with systematic lesson plans, effective classroom management, and efficient teaching techniques. Your fundamental knowledge of the language and grammar skills is further strengthened before facing a classroom of learners. The program brings out your best teaching skills, and the training imparted gives you hands-on teaching experience.
There is a great demand worldwide for TESOL teachers, opening a new vista of career opportunities.
Teaching Prospects after TESOL
Many primary schools, high schools, colleges, and universities require qualified English language instructors. Having a TESOL certificate can brighten up your prospects as an English teacher around the globe. The best career options are found in private English language schools where you can teach adults and children usually through conversation. Other possibilities that are more lucrative are teaching Business English to professionals and private tuition which is in high demand for those who are the most motivated to progress quickly. Here you have to interact with your students directly. Travel and see the world while you earn money teaching English. The countries that you can visit and teach English with your TESOL qualification are vast. Basically, any country where there is a demand for English is possible.
Why Should this interest me? I already have marketable skills in another field.
One reason is that obtaining visas in most countries can get complicated and take some time. This includes some that offer a digital nomad visa. However, there is a voracious demand for English teachers in most parts of the world. Having a TEFL certificate may help in securing a long term working visa more quickly and simply. Next, its an extra source of income. Salaries are normally above a given country’s minimum wage. And lastly, it’s a way to meet and connect with others. Being a digital nomad can get lonely. Meeting other teachers and sharing ideas with your students who are typically locals will make your experience richer when you’re not working.