Job Discussion Forums

[Liisa]

After reading a number of threads in this forum, I have not encountered anyone with similar issues, so here goes...

I am 45, I have BS and some Master level Library Science courses. I work in a public library, and my research into ESL teaching is a direct result of being asked by patrons for help in locating convienent ESL classes. It is a fairly affluent community, but has an increasing foreign population from various places around the globe, most in service sector employment. A fair number of people that I meet at the library are anxious to learn English, but transportation is limited, and most arrive by foot. If we were able to offer free ESL classes to this particular segment of our public I think it would be well received, and that is my goal.

I am currently researching various TEFL programs. I am investigating programs in Prague, and so far it seems that it would be cost comparative, or maybe even a bit cheaper to go there and earn a TEFL certificate. The real interest in Prague lies in staying in a country whose language I do not speak, and experiencing what EFL students do, albiet in a limited way. Is this valid reasoning? Is there anyone out there that would advocate getting a TEFL certificate in the US, and if so, why?

Liisa

[denise]

Are you thinking about getting a TEFL certificate to help you find a job, or to help you learn about teaching? A certificate won't help very much with the job search in the US.

I did my TEFL certificate in Prague--a city that I absolutely love, by the way. Wanting to immerse yourself in a new culture/language seems like a perfectly valid and admirable reason. Financially, though, don't forget to factor in airfare and a bit of touristy expenses. (Housing, possibly with meals, might already be included in the price of the certificate.)

d

[Liisa]

I am not looking for employment after completion of the program, I have a job that will allow me to incorporate teaching ESL into my present position. Thanks for the feedback about Prague though!

Liisa

[Jolly]

[spiral78]

I understand that you're simply seeking some basic training in ESL/EFL to use to expand your work in the States. Like Denise, I think Prague's a nice option for training. There are several reputable training centers in the city, and the cost of travel/course/stay is fairly reasonable. You won't really have the opportunity or time (unless you're staying longer than a month or two) to immerse yourself in the local culture, but at least your 'practice' teaching students will be genuine non-native speakers and you'll be able to learn and practice a little basic Czech.
I'd recommend that if it's practical for you to stay in Prague a few weeks after your training course, that would be a nice route to take. Housing may be an issue - it's never so easy to arrange.
Best of luck - I'm sure that if you decide to take this route, you'll enjoy the trip and that the training will be enough to benefit your immigrant community back home too.

[daily chai]

Liisa, I'd be surprised if you could find work teaching ESL in the US with only a certificate. There are loads of ESL teachers with master's degrees who can't get work teaching adults. Another thread mentions a PhD in TESOL can only find work at a community college. Even in Taiwan things are changing, and many schools want an ESL certificate as a minimum requirement. Now, in America there are even more native speakers wandering about, but even here they are raising the bar. Perhaps more research is warranted. I hope you discover you can, but I'd hate to see you fall on your bum.

What about overseeing the project? Being a curriculum coordinator?