Job Discussion Forums

slinky · Joined: 22 Feb 2004 Posts: 5 Location: buenos aires

So, I am in Argentina and want to teach english. I have no teaching certificate and would like one, but simply cannot justify paying for one when the fees are equivalent to six months wages here. I do, however, have volunteer teaching experience and inmpeccable grammar skills. I guess my question is this; has anybody ever started teaching the hard way, learning as one goes? Or do you think that professional training is abslotutely essential. Thanks for any advice.

Celeste · Posted: Tue Feb 24, 2004 2:34 am Post subject:

A lot of people learn as they go. I did, and then when I wanted to move into a better job, I had to go back and get the certificate anyway. If you cannot afford the certificate now, then at least get yourself some of the better teacher training texts out there. Some authors to look for:

Harmer
Scrivener
Ur

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

Personally I think the TEFL certificate training is a "must have".
Try shopping around for a lower price.

scot47 · Joined: 10 Jan 2003 Posts: 15343

This was more common a few years back. I think you can robably still do this - in some countries. No cahnce in others.

There are tons of books available on foreign language teaching and more specifically on EL teaching. Have a look at some of them.

Your task will be easier if you yourself have learned a foreign language or languages and reached some level of competence.

If you are going to stay in this field you will probably have to get a Certificate or Diploma or MA at some point.

august03 · Joined: 13 Oct 2003 Posts: 159 Location: Jiangsu, China

I began with no teaching experience or qualifications and it's been great and easy. I realise I want to do a course now, as I'm finding out how much more I want to learn about teaching. I wasn't sure whether teaching would suit me so I didn't want to do the course first and spend the money. I like teaching now, but I wouldn't change the way I've done things.

Gordon · Joined: 28 Jan 2003 Posts: 5309 Location: Japan

A TEFL certificate isn't necessary, but it is good to have. You should be able to find work where you are without it. The better jobs require it. The certificate will help lay down some groundwork and give you a basis of knowledge from which to teach from. I taught for almost 4 years before I got mine.

dmb · Joined: 12 Feb 2003 Posts: 8397

Alot of countries require some sort of certification in order to get a work permit

Snoopy · Joined: 13 Jul 2003 Posts: 185

Get certified! I would not have got the posts I have had without a Cert and then a Dip. OK, I am referring to the Middle East, where you can soon recoup the cost, especially if you are moonlighting.