Site Search:
 
Get TEFL Certified & Start Your Adventure Today!
Teach English Abroad and Get Paid to see the World!
Job Discussion Forums Forum Index Job Discussion Forums
"The Internet's Meeting Place for ESL/EFL Students and Teachers from Around the World!"
 
 FAQFAQ   SearchSearch   MemberlistMemberlist   UsergroupsUsergroups   RegisterRegister 
 ProfileProfile   Log in to check your private messagesLog in to check your private messages   Log inLog in 

Teaching English abroad? Initial questions and advice?
Goto page 1, 2  Next
 
Post new topic   Reply to topic    Job Discussion Forums Forum Index -> Newbie Forum
View previous topic :: View next topic  
Author Message
yaakovdov



Joined: 29 Jun 2013
Posts: 5

PostPosted: Mon Jul 01, 2013 9:12 pm    Post subject: Teaching English abroad? Initial questions and advice? Reply with quote

Hi. I'm an English guy literally at the very start of researching the idea of teaching English abroad, which I'm potentially getting very excited about! I don't yet know where, but I would like to live in a foreign culture such as Asia or Africa. I've done a lot of backpacking in Asia already, but never settled somewhere for a while, which I think would be a totally different experience. Japan certainly jumps out as an initial suggestion, but I'm open to anything. Here's my initial questions ...

1) Am I right in saying that I would need to get a TEFL qualification for many places, but not all (such as Japan)? How does teaching somewhere that requires a TEFL differ to somewhere that doesn't?
2) If needed, how do I get a TEFL qualification and how long does it take?
3) Assuming that most jobs are available in September, am I too late in the year now, or is later in the year still a good option?
4) Is teaching always a 1 year thing, or potentially could I do a shorter period of time?
5. How time consuming and strenuous is teaching abroad? Obviously I would give my all to the job, but of course this is an experience for me too. I want to embrace myself in living in another country for a while, and that means I need spare time in the evenings and weekends.
6. Finally, what should my next step be? My guess is I need to read about different countries and what I would need to do to teach in them, but whats the best way to do this?

Thankyou so much!
Andy
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
nomad soul



Joined: 31 Jan 2010
Posts: 11454
Location: The real world

PostPosted: Mon Jul 01, 2013 9:27 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

You didn't mention if you have at least a BA. If not, then you'll be very limited as to where you can teach.
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
fluffyhamster



Joined: 13 Mar 2005
Posts: 3292
Location: UK > China > Japan > UK again

PostPosted: Mon Jul 01, 2013 9:53 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

1) Am I right in saying that I would need to get a TEFL qualification for many places, but not all (such as Japan)? Yes, you don't need a cert to work in Japan. I'm assuming that you have a degree, or (if a non-grad) are at least eligible for a working holiday visa (but then, can one really work that much on a WHV, let alone as a teacher, given that the purpose of the visa is more holiday than work, and that e.g. dispatch AETing will involve a FT schedule? I guess that scrupulous employers require graduates and do not look for WHV holders).

How does teaching somewhere that requires a TEFL differ to somewhere that doesn't? As a cert holder, the way I try to teach is the same even if that cert isn't required in that place or country. But obviously, in countries where certs are the required minimum, then there is likely to be more career structure and a proper hierarchy of informed if not supportive colleagues. (Sometimes it's nice to get away from that, however). So it is kind of ironic that the support structures aren't there in the countries where they might be needed the most. Anyway, the main point is that without training, you could be ineffectual at best, and at worst become very stressed out and unable to cope with the demands. At the very least you should buy and read a general methodology guide, as well as books on how to teach grammar; you'll also need to get a reference grammar and usage guide, and perhaps a dictionary. (That's often the least that those who go on to complete certs do, let alone those who don't!). There are plenty of recommendations on these forums, but here are some authors or titles to look for on Amazon: Jeremy Harmer, Jim Scrivener, Scott Thornbury, Michael Lewis & Jimmie Hill, George Yule, Dianne Larsen-Freeman, Raymond Murphy, Michael Swan, John Eastwood, Geoffrey Leech, COBUILD. You can also find teaching clips on YT, uploaded from e.g. the DVDs that accompany Jeremy Harmer's books.

2) If needed, how do I get a TEFL qualification and how long does it take? You take your pick of the recognized cert brands (namely CELTA, Trinity, SIT - all have a minmimum number of total hours, and of observed teaching practice with real students) that are most convenient in terms of cost, time, to some extent mode (some are offered part-time) and obviously place. There may be advantages to taking the course in the country in which you wish to work (networking, availability for immediate interview in person etc), but these may be offset by the time and costs involved in securing work visas. Plus places like Japan don't have that many training centers IIRC.

3) Assuming that most jobs are available in September, am I too late in the year now, or is later in the year still a good option? Best to ask on country- or region-specific forums. In Japan, there are some jobs available from September-October, when the new school terms starts and previous teachers may be leaving and new students enrolling etc, but generally there will be fewer openings at this time than there were at the start of the academic year (march-April). One needs to be applying around a month or two prior to these periods to be assured of getting enough interviews to stand a real chance.

4) Is teaching always a 1 year thing, or potentially could I do a shorter period of time? It depends on the employer. There are some, such as Westgate in Japan, who seem to only offer shorter contracts (around 3 months at a time), but they require reasonably substantial teaching experience (as they dispatch to universities mostly), and may not sponsor visas. Again, best to check on the Japan forum, for example.

5. How time consuming and strenuous is teaching abroad? Obviously I would give my all to the job, but of course this is an experience for me too. I want to embrace myself in living in another country for a while, and that means I need spare time in the evenings and weekends. The evenings and Saturdays are precisely when private language schools operate, as their customers will be working or at school during the weekdays. (There is usually only a limited schedule during the weekday afternoons in such schools e.g. teaching housewives or retirees). I would not recommend that you teach Business English classes as that can and does involve split schedules (i.e. long days, working both mornings and evenings even when those are the same day LOL), even if that might leave you with your weekends more free. One of the best options for you might be to try for AET positions (as an Assistant English Teacher in Japanese public schools), but the conditions (pay, holidays, insurance, etc etc etc) with the AET dispatch agencies are not that good. If eligible, try applying for stuff like the JET Programme instead.

6. Finally, what should my next step be? My guess is I need to read about different countries and what I would need to do to teach in them, but whats the best way to do this? Ask further questions if need be, here or on the appropriate forums. Supply enough information that people can give you unequivocal answers LOL. And try to pick up a copy of something like Susan Griffith's Teaching English Abroad 2013 in your local library, as it'll answer a lot of questions and help you zero in on the best countries for you. She also has a book called Work Your Way Around the World (which deals with a wider range of work than TEFL).
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
coledavis



Joined: 21 Jun 2003
Posts: 1838

PostPosted: Tue Jul 02, 2013 9:23 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

The question about whether or not you are a graduate is very relevant. I think you should answer in order to get more accurate advice from us.

However, these are my thoughts:

1) Am I right in saying that I would need to get a TEFL qualification for many places, but not all (such as Japan)? How does teaching somewhere that requires a TEFL differ to somewhere that doesn't?
You need a qualification for most places. Places that don't: likely to be poorly paid, likely to be chat shows or places where you are the gimp for real local teachers; difficult to work your way up to a decentish job. Also, think just how lacking in skills you will be without a qualification.

2) If needed, how do I get a TEFL qualification and how long does it take?
A decent course: approximately four weeks if full-time. If you don't already have substantial teaching qualifications or experience, ignore weekend or online only courses.

3) Assuming that most jobs are available in September, am I too late in the year now, or is later in the year still a good option?
Depends on whether or not you can find a suitable course in time for September, doesn't it? Later in the year is problematic as there are less jobs about.


4) Is teaching always a 1 year thing, or potentially could I do a shorter period of time?
Generally, yes, one year. The days of welcoming people to do just about anything because they are a native speaker are long gone. There are a few shorter contracts, agencies such as Aston for China (not a recommendation, just an example).

5. How time consuming and strenuous is teaching abroad? Obviously I would give my all to the job, but of course this is an experience for me too. I want to embrace myself in living in another country for a while, and that means I need spare time in the evenings and weekends.
The reality is that you are likely to be teaching at the very least from the late afternoons into the evening. Most students learn English after they finish school or work. Weekends depends on the school. I rather think that the better qualified you are, the more choice you have over what contracts you will get.
Basically, however, you will be working not on holiday and 9 to 5 is a rarity, even more so for a new teacher.


6. Finally, what should my next step be? My guess is I need to read about different countries and what I would need to do to teach in them, but whats the best way to do this?
Depends on things like: are you a graduate? are you enrolling on a course or not (CELTA or Trinity TESOL preferred for general recognition)?
These will determine which countries you might do business in and which not.

On the whole, European countries want a graduate with a good initial teaching qualification (CELTA/Trinity preferred), with greater competition in the West; it is easier to get a first job in the East.

With problematic qualifications, e.g. no degree or no TEFL, then somewhere in Asia is more likely. Hope this helps.





[/i]
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
yaakovdov



Joined: 29 Jun 2013
Posts: 5

PostPosted: Tue Jul 02, 2013 6:56 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

nomad soul wrote:
You didn't mention if you have at least a BA. If not, then you'll be very limited as to where you can teach.


Good point Nomad Soul. So you know, I have a BA in History and an MSc in Software Development. Smile
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
yaakovdov



Joined: 29 Jun 2013
Posts: 5

PostPosted: Tue Jul 02, 2013 7:18 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Thanks so much to everyone for your excellent advice! I guess my next step is to research what i want to do more thoroughly, including maybe finding a course (a 4 week course doesn't sound too bad!).

To summarise more who I am and what I would like, I am a graduate of History and I have a Masters in Software Development. I would like to work in Asia or maybe even Africa if thats an option. Your excellent answers have arisen the following questions and thoughts ...

1) Time is unfortunetely against me, for I would like to be home again in approximately a year from now! Do you think it is feasible to have a fun, rewarding teaching experience within a year of now? (baring in mind you guys appear to reccomend I do a course first, that lots of places are for a year, and that lots of places start in September)? Do you know of anywhere that appears to fit my current thinking?

2) Another question that has arisen is 'Who' will I be teaching? I had in mind it would be young children, maybe who already have a start in English (as I won't be able to speak their own language!). However, your responses imply adults are often the students? Which is more common?

3) Finally, I'd like to know if you guys think I am a typical and worthy candidate for teaching abroad? Do I sound like I am doing this for the right reasons? I am not looking to have a career in teaching Ebglish abroad, but rather, would like to shake up my life for the next year and experience living in another culture (I've already done backpacking abroad, but not living abroad)? And my initial reaction was to research teaching abroad (which I honestly think would be fun if I had kids who wanted to be interactive, and if I could use my creativity to make fun lessons!). Plus I'd like to meet other like-minded Westerners to spend my spare time with.

Again, thanks so much for your responses, it is greatly appreciated! Smile
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
coledavis



Joined: 21 Jun 2003
Posts: 1838

PostPosted: Tue Jul 02, 2013 10:54 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Well, as I said, there are a few organisations that offer short-term work, so it is possible.

Sure, many TEFLers decide to teach short-term (although do note that over less than a year, you may not really recoup the money spent on your course).

Most schools tend to offer a mixture, often of teenagers and adults, sometimes younger children too. Varies with the job.

Masters in Software development. If you have a particular country in mind, you might opt for proof-reading the content of websites and/or manuals etc of organisations. Would need a lot of rooting about, but it is another possibility.
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
santi84



Joined: 14 Mar 2008
Posts: 1317
Location: under da sea

PostPosted: Wed Jul 03, 2013 10:17 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

I'm not sure you would enjoy teaching Cool It's a lot of work;a lot more preparation and hours than most people think.

I wonder if doing a working holiday in a place like Australia (bartending, other gigs) would be more enjoyable for you? You would probably have the same working hours but have more fun.

Or you can teach! It's up to you!
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
coledavis



Joined: 21 Jun 2003
Posts: 1838

PostPosted: Wed Jul 03, 2013 1:06 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Yes, Santi84 is making a good point. Teaching is rarely easy and TEFL is not a working holiday, although there are people with an interest in suggesting so, usually the purveyors of dodgy training courses.
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
yaakovdov



Joined: 29 Jun 2013
Posts: 5

PostPosted: Wed Jul 03, 2013 6:45 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Again, thanks so much for your responses!

It's noteworthy that you guys say a lot of preparation is needed each day for teaching. This is a potential blocker for me. I think the actual idea of teaching sounds really fun, especially with kids (who I expect will be much more keen and behaved than western kids?) especially if I can put my own spin on the lessons. I'm happy to work a normal-ish day - vaguely 7 hours of work a day. But I want evenings and weekends free. I work to live not live to work. I also want to experience living another culture. Whether there are jobs that would suit me better in Asia, I'm not sure?

In regards to not making a profit in less than a year, that isn't a major problem as long as the loss isn't too great. This is more about the experience than making stacks of money (although any nice profit is obviously a welcome bonus!).

Andy
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
nomad soul



Joined: 31 Jan 2010
Posts: 11454
Location: The real world

PostPosted: Wed Jul 03, 2013 7:51 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

I agree with the other posters; a working holiday seems to fit your idea of a "fun" job while "experiencing life in another culture." Try an Internet search using working holiday jobs to see what's available.
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
coledavis



Joined: 21 Jun 2003
Posts: 1838

PostPosted: Wed Jul 03, 2013 7:51 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Judging from what you are saying, Santi84's comments sound even more justified. In the beginning you will need to prepare quite a lot. You will not get evenings free (or at least, not early evenings). It isn't even a given that you may not have to work weekends, especially on your first job. Sorry, but unless you have a change of heart, this probably isn't for you.
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
yaakovdov



Joined: 29 Jun 2013
Posts: 5

PostPosted: Wed Jul 03, 2013 8:16 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Thanks all! If I ultimately decide teaching isn't the way forward, then so be it. The aim of this thread was to get initial advice and answers, and if the answer is that I should also explore other ideas, then this thread has been fully worthwhile. In truth, I am now in doubt that teaching abroad is something I should dive headfirst into (although I still think standing infront of a class of eager children in Asia sounds very fun!), and I will research some other ideas. Smile
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
Xie Lin



Joined: 21 Oct 2011
Posts: 731

PostPosted: Wed Jul 03, 2013 8:26 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Quote:

Try an Internet search using working holiday jobs to see what's available.



I'd be willing to wager that a guy with a master's in software development already knows how to use Google! Laughing

.
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
santi84



Joined: 14 Mar 2008
Posts: 1317
Location: under da sea

PostPosted: Wed Jul 03, 2013 10:15 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

It is a popular belief amongst native English speakers that children are eager and excited to learn English Smile but it's worth noting that the majority of them are just pushed into it by their parents and few of them will ever use English during their lives (except perhaps an entrance exam).
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
Display posts from previous:   
Post new topic   Reply to topic    Job Discussion Forums Forum Index -> Newbie Forum All times are GMT
Goto page 1, 2  Next
Page 1 of 2

 
Jump to:  
You cannot post new topics in this forum
You cannot reply to topics in this forum
You cannot edit your posts in this forum
You cannot delete your posts in this forum
You cannot vote in polls in this forum


This page is maintained by the one and only Dave Sperling.
Contact Dave's ESL Cafe
Copyright © 2018 Dave Sperling. All Rights Reserved.

Powered by phpBB © 2001, 2002 phpBB Group

Teaching Jobs in China
Teaching Jobs in China