Job Discussion Forums

[HariSeldon]

Hello all,

In planning my trip to Thailand this January, I stumbled across a link on http://www.travelcuts.com/english/html/middle.asp#. (I can't seem to get the link to work properly, but there is a 'TEFL' button on the left side of the page.) There is an online TEFL course offered through there to the tune of $400CAD. First of all, is this a reasonable price? For an online course? Which leads me to whether or not an online course would be effective. I know that teaching is hands-on, and the that online means basically the opposite, but do you feel that the theoretical parts of teaching would be effectively communicated through the online program? Could they be?

And finally, if anyone has experience with this course, is the certificate you get at the end _exactly_ the same as a more traditional TEFL course? In other words, I'm hoping this certificate is not an 'online version' of the real thing, causing prospective employers to guffaw with disgust at my naivete. I really hate the sound of guffaws.

Thanks kindly,
Brian

[stillnosheep]

The certificate you receive at the end is to say that you have completed the i-to-i online tefl course and is recognized, as far as I know, by nobody except i-to-i, who offer 'volunteer', ie unpaid, efl jobs in various countries (you have to pay your own expenses as well).

The Cambridge CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults) is the most recognised EFL certificate. Full time courses last 4 weeks, are very intensive and generally cost about 700 - 1000 Pounds UK. I don't know whether you need a CELTA to get a job teaching EFL in Thailand.

[Ludwig]

I see they are currently offering a 'Halloween Special' with some 20% off. Judge for yourself as to their professionalism. Also, are you not at least a tad suspicious of websites that offer flights, MP3 players, cheap hotels, and TEFL 'certificates'?

In short, you want an on-line course but do not want an on-line certificate. Would this be an accurate portrayal of your efforts and the standards enforced? Would this be fair to employers and potential students?

I noticed they are quite forthcoming about the lack of worth of their 'certificate'. For example, they note that some countries require teachers to be "TEFL certified", and, if that is the case, their advice is to:

"[...] understand that there is no international awarding body for TEFL certificates. If you do choose to study for a TEFL certificate, then ensure that you get training from an established organization that has been independently inspected for quality".

In other words, not them and they at least admit it.