Job Discussion Forums

jpf_msw · Joined: 18 Feb 2006 Posts: 4 Location: New Jersey, USA

Hi Everyone... Considering teaching abroad and am wondering what the difference is between receiving training with TESOL vs CELTA? DOes one open more doors than the other? I am an American, the TESOL is an 8 week course while the CELTA is a 4 week course. Any guidance would be MUCH appreciated.

tedkarma · Posted: Thu Feb 23, 2006 8:38 am Post subject:

How to Choose a TEFL School at: http://phuketdelight.com/TEFL.htm addresses this issue to some extent.

There are, btw, TEFL Cert programs that are four and six weeks also. Happy medium - maybe six weeks - you have some time absorb the materials without getting worked to death - but also aren't out of the job market too long.

Bread and butter jobs in some countries: Teaching kids in public schools. CELTA: the "A" = "adults" - but they will sell you an additional "children's program" for more money . . . Shocked

Most TEFL/TESOL/TESL programs will address teaching kids and adults and - often times - also have some focus on the local populations - rather than just a generic "one size fits all" approach.

That said - many people will disagree. But that is okay.

I'd say if you were going to teach adults in Eastern Europe - CELTA might be the program for you. Otherwise, take a good look at some of the TEFL programs - and the savings they will give you. And they may well better meet your needs.

Depends a lot on where you are going.

ls650 · Joined: 10 May 2003 Posts: 3484 Location: British Columbia

tedkarma · Posted: Sat Feb 25, 2006 9:52 pm Post subject:

The "international standard" for a TEFL Certification course is at least 100 hours of classroom time - and at least six hours of observed teaching practice - make sure that is included in any program that you sign up for.

Distance classes - won't do it.

Cdaniels · Posted: Sun Feb 26, 2006 4:12 pm Post subject: 4 week vs 8 week