Job Discussion Forums

gytfunke · Joined: 13 Jan 2009 Posts: 6

I've read that most online TEFL qualifications aren't worth beans if they aren't accompanied by in-class training.

My question is this. Is independent EFL tutoring experience sufficient to replace the in-class training portion of a certificate program in the eyes of legitimate employers?

I currently give free 1 on 1 english lessons to immigrants in my town. A friend of mine and I are planning a one-day-a-week EFL course for a handful of students.

Would employers care about experience like this? Or should I forget about doing an online TEFL and just go for an on-location CELTA?

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I'm an American with a BA in Francophone Literature hoping desperately to find a way to work in Europe (preferably France), but willing to work pretty much anywhere in the world (but the States) as a backup. Functionally fluent in French with a passing understanding of Spanish.

fluffyhamster · Posted: Wed Jan 21, 2009 10:45 pm Post subject:

Although genuine student satisfaction (assuming you're getting repeat custom and good word of mouth) ideally would rate equal to or higher than observed and possibly very boring "correct" teaching practice, I think the majority of potential employers are going to be sceptical of your experience no matter how much proof you provide of it (it's simply easier for them to trust a single piece of paper in the form of a certificate than testimonials in the form of lots of sheets of paper and/or videos or whatever; that is, such testimonials probably won't be seriously considered unless accompanied by a certificate). But hey, I've not yet been in a position to hire and fire, so what do I really know (but if I were, I myself would try to not dismiss any application out of hand - it would need to have not checked several boxes at least. But I guess the cert one is a biggy, no doubt about it. Ultimately, employers should ask more probing (but still realistic and sensible) questions, even of those with the paper qualifications (not all of whom are good teachers)).

naturegirl321 · Joined: 04 May 2003 Posts: 9041 Location: home sweet home

YOur experience is good, put it on a CV. AS for TEFL courses, the differences is that you-ll be getting feedback from trainers. In your case, you-re also getting feedback, but just from students. Which is still in itself good.

denise · Joined: 23 Apr 2003 Posts: 3419 Location: finally home-ish

I don't understand... you're giving a TEFL course to your immigrant students? What exactly are you doing, who is doing it, who is observing it, and who are the students?

d

naturegirl321 · Joined: 04 May 2003 Posts: 9041 Location: home sweet home

I think he's teaching English to immigrants.

denise · Joined: 23 Apr 2003 Posts: 3419 Location: finally home-ish

Chancellor

naturegirl321 · Joined: 04 May 2003 Posts: 9041 Location: home sweet home

Although it might not replace supservised teaching practise. He is getting some experience under his belt.

MO39 · Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2009 10:19 pm Post subject:

word_to_the_wise · Joined: 28 May 2007 Posts: 67 Location: Riyadh

naturegirl321 · Joined: 04 May 2003 Posts: 9041 Location: home sweet home

It won-t replace it. BUt it will give him experience. Goign to conferences, talking to other teachers and reading up on it will help him as well.

Justin Trullinger · Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2009 10:38 pm Post subject:

I would not go to a dentist who had practiced on unsuspecting immigrants instead of going to dentistry school, would you?

I know- teaching immigrants for free, you're helping, and not hurting. Good for you.

But just like the dentistry example, it is NOT a qualification.

Best,
justin

PS- Sometimes you just gotta bite the bullet and go to school.

naturegirl321 · Joined: 04 May 2003 Posts: 9041 Location: home sweet home

Guess you're right Justin. BUt I was thinking more along the line that having a choice between hiring a teacher with zero experience and one with immigrants, I'd choose the immigrant teacher

gytfunke · Joined: 13 Jan 2009 Posts: 6

Thanks for the replies.

Mostly I was trying to weasel my way out of doing an on-site course because I live 6 hours from the nearest facilities where such courses are offered.

spiral78 · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 11534 Location: On a Short Leash

Don't be a weasel! Very Happy

Maximize the value of your on-site cert by doing it in the country where you want to start teaching, instead of six hours from home!

There are many good reasons to do this, if at all possible:
You can get your feet wet in country/culture while you still have a support system, as training centres usually arrange for your housing during the course, airport pickup and local orientation.
Your practice teaching students will really represent those you'll be working with when you start.
You can be sure your cert will be recognized by local employers.
The training centre can give you invaluable advice regarding reputable local schools.