Job Discussion Forums

yodetta · Joined: 29 Aug 2004 Posts: 68 Location: California, USA

I've been researching alot, and making comparisons. I'd like to start out in Eastern Europe (Prague, Krakow). These training courses seem to me to be the best for teaching in Eastern Europe and/or Asia:

Trinity
ITC
TEFL World
Global TEFL

I can afford to pay a little more for the best program. By "Best" I mean, international reputation, quality of training, job placement and housing assistance.

Which course would you experienced folk recommend?
Y

tbiehl2000 · Joined: 22 Jul 2004 Posts: 87

Yodetta,
I would suggest that you read some of the threads here at Dave's esl cafe. Got to the teacher training forum. Your topic is constantly debated. I have my own opinions concerning this. I'd be happy to send you a PM if you want to hear my thoughts. Like I said, there is so much already written, debated, discussed etc concerning your question.

AsiaTraveller · Posted: Mon Sep 06, 2004 8:37 pm Post subject:

Yodetta,

First, I must congratulate you on finding a wonderful nickname! It has two meanings for me, as I was a big fan of the folksinger Odetta in the (blush) 1960s. Actually met her one time...

You have not listed CELTA among your certification options. It is generally considered to be among the top certifications, if not THE top programme. And it is recognised around the world -- especially in Europe. There are many discussions of the merits of various programmes in the forums here.

dangermouse24 · Joined: 19 Jun 2004 Posts: 22 Location: Mexico

I have to agree with AsiaTraveller here. CELTA is well known throughout the world and especially in Europe. Schools and institutes in Europe do also accept TEFL certificate holders though it seems more popular to hire people who have taken CELTA.

Another option you might consider is the TEFL certificate offered by Via Lingua International http://www.vialingua.org. I studied with them in Mexico. They also have a school in Prague. They have a very good course, all their schools are externally moderated and they offer guaranteed global job placement upon completion of their course with long term guidance even years afterwards. I would certainly recommend it.

yodetta · Joined: 29 Aug 2004 Posts: 68 Location: California, USA

yes, i've noticed that this topic has been debated ad nauseum on various threads...and i've read most of them. i risked raising it again -- perhaps I should frame it in a scaled index? -- because i'm narrowing my choices down to a few schools and wanted to see if there are any new, poignant perspectives that didn't emerge on previous posts. For example, how to make a point-by-point comparison of ITC, Trinity and CELTA? [I hadn't originally listed CELTA because several folks suggested it was overrated...??] But after reading web info, I realize it is a reputable program and really appreciate you pointing it out to me.

anyone with comparative experiences and/or seasoned information regarding this topic (and with the energy to respond) may email me privately if you wish. I've pretty much winnowed it down to ITC, Trinity and CELTA...and would like to hear strong preferences regarding any of those.

very appreciative,
Y