Job Discussion Forums

RBJfaraway · Joined: 02 Sep 2009 Posts: 27

Hello, I am somewhat of a noob. Never taught before, and I apologize as this must be a recurring question. The search function isn't helping me out though.

I am looking into getting a TEFL this summer and I've come up with two options:

I can get an in-class 150 hour TEFL from a language school in my city for $1300, or I can get a 150 hour TEFL online for $150.

From the perspective of getting hired, is it worth the extra $1000 to get the classroom one? Would an employer know the difference? Would they care?

Obviously I want to be prepared to do the job well, but $1000 is a lot of money for me.

Any responses from personal experience would be greatly appreciated, or if you could refer me to one of the previous discussions on this topic. Thanks everyone !

80daze · Joined: 15 Oct 2008 Posts: 118 Location: China

Well it depends on where you want to teach- if you're looking at Europe you'll need a CELTA/Ttinity or SIT. This will cost you at least $1000 but most newbies will have one and as such you would need one.

As for Asia, well from what I hear Japan will take you without one as long as you have a BA Degree in something. China will be the same for most companies though it really does depend on who your competitors are.

To be blunt with you, of the two options you presented either go with the CELTA/Trinity and SIT or do nothing and just apply. The $150 online course is worthless and would not be of any use to you at all!

The expensive courses will teach you how to teach, you will be able to walk into a room with 30 0r 40 students (sometimes more) and know exactly what you are doing.

Good luck Smile

sharpe88 · Joined: 21 Oct 2008 Posts: 226

either go for a real course, or buy some good books to read up on.

RBJfaraway · Joined: 02 Sep 2009 Posts: 27

Thanks I appreciate the responses. I realize that the in-class will be more beneficial to me than the online one. I am primarily interested in how it will be perceived by Chinese employers. Will on online (120 hr) TEFL look as good to them as an in-class? Judging by the listings for positions I want to get a TEFL for sure. They ask for experience (which I don't have) or TEFL to be competitive.

Basically I am wondering how a drastically cheaper online TEFL looks to an employer. Knowing how to do the job well is important, but not if you don't get the job. Right?

malu · Joined: 22 Apr 2007 Posts: 1344 Location: Sunny Java

For those jobs that are worth having - and don't forget after your 'entry level' job you might want to stay on and find something better - they will sure as heck know that the online course is worthless. For those jobs that require no more than a white face and a pulse, it might impress them.

Don't be a cheapskate. Bite the bullet, do it properly, reap the benefits later.