Job Discussion Forums

PKB · Joined: 05 Nov 2004 Posts: 88 Location: USA

I knew the dollar was plummeting, but I didn't know by how much - OUCH!

$1.92389 --> 1 British Pound

Might have to consider something priced in dollars instead.

tedkarma · Posted: Fri Dec 17, 2004 7:52 am Post subject:

I guess one could get worked up about the relative cost. But then it is your CAREER and how you might occupy 40+ hours per week of your time over the next 2-40 years . . .

Sorry, but I hear so much concern over the difference here and there of a few bucks - and so little concern about learning to be a decent teacher and qualified professional.

Sorry, just cranky as it is final exams week here . . .

PKB · Joined: 05 Nov 2004 Posts: 88 Location: USA

I agree, but it's more than not all things being equal. It's about all things being uncertain. Despite fact finding and sorting through varying opinions, I still cannot be completely certain how one school experience will be different from another. However, cost is one variable that is certain. Not that it is the school's fault, it is just a matter of currency risk. I still have the old rate of 1 Pound = $1.60 ingrained in my head. The current exchange rate did make me gasp a bit, but I'm over it by today. Still researching, thanks!

izzyismydog · Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 2:48 pm Post subject: I agree...

It's so hard to judge the value of a course, especially something that may have very little value whether it costs a little or a lot depending on what country you are in-even if it were to be an excellent course. If I would have taken a TEFL before coming to Taiwan I would have been very upset to have parted with my money. I am really only considering one now because the country I want to be in requires it- though I think they may place a higher value on a CELTA. I do hope to learn something when I take my TEFL wherever I take it, but I wish I didn't have to part with the money to do something that will not make it back for me. And this is coming from someone with a first, useless, $30thousand degree in art...

tedkarma · Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 12:05 am Post subject: Re: I agree...

izzyismydog · Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 1:42 am Post subject: now I disagree...

I'd have to say that I don't think it's always true that if something is cheaper it is not as good. There can be many reasons for the price variable. For example, they are a school that teaches other things (they are a language school, no?) so they earn there bread and butter there. Or they are a newer school and have yet to establish a reputation that will allow them to jack up the prices to ridiculously high rates like their neighbours have. THey aren't a chain school so they don't have their dues to pay. Or maybe these schools don't really need to charge as much as they do to turn a profit and the person setting the price for the cheaper school doesn't buy into the obvious price fixing that most other TEFL institutions do just because they can.
I feel that due to cost of living etc. in some of the places that these schools are in there should be a much bigger price variation than there is. They are out to make money, each and every one of them. Not that I have anything against making money. I just don't particularily want to part with it for something that has a sketchy reputation in the first place...
Every school I've contacted will allow a person to sit in (for upto a week in the case of TEFLplus) for free, but all that I've stayed in contact with will not have room available at the time I'd like to be there for the course if I don't book ahead of time anyways. So while this is a good idea in theory...
jmho

PKB · Joined: 05 Nov 2004 Posts: 88 Location: USA

What is the monthly cost for decent (1 person studio/TV/AC?) accomodation in Patong away from the beach, but in walking distance to the TEFL cert. classes? Is it best to reserve ahead of time or look for accomodation after arrival?

tedkarma · Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 6:00 am Post subject:

My friend Paul - on the island - has a few rooms and/or small apartments in Patong that might be appropriate. Check with him for prices. Would be an easy walk to either school in Patong.

If you are coming during high season - definitely reserve in advance. And, not a bad plan to make sure you have a place the rest of the time either.

Send an e-mail to Paul at: [email protected]

PKB · Joined: 05 Nov 2004 Posts: 88 Location: USA

Why is 120 hours the magic number? Is that mandated somewhere? And why are some courses (like Annas's) 80 hours? How come there are no 130, 110, 100 hour courses? Sorry, just wondering why 120 seems to be the standard and why some offer 80.

kenkannif · Joined: 07 Apr 2004 Posts: 550

The general concensus (sp?) is that to be of an international standard worldwide you should get at least 100 hours class time, and at least 6 plus hours observed teaching practice. Not a big problem (if it doesn't comply to these 'rules') in Thailand but you may find it is elsewhere.

There was a thread about it years ago on Dave's. I'll see if I cut and pasted it anywhere!

Also bear in mind some providers offer 120 hours flat (i.e. the OTP is included with in it) others add the OTP on top. Also some include peer 'observing' within the 120 hours!

PKB · Joined: 05 Nov 2004 Posts: 88 Location: USA

Thanks!

kenkannif · Joined: 07 Apr 2004 Posts: 550

No worries mate, I'm happy to help (and hopefully did)!