Job Discussion Forums

[j'aime]

I'm looking to teach abroad next year- ideally in Cuenca, Ecuador, although i'm flexible. However, i find the costs of classroom TEFL courses pretty staggering- from US$1500- $2800. Considering the relatively low salary i expect to receive, it doesn't seem like a sound investment. So, my question is: do online courses count for anything to potential employers? would i be more likely to get an EFL job with an online cert, or is a waste of $$?

thanks!
j'aime

[Guy Courchesne]

j'aime, I love, yo amo, it is probably a waste of time to get an online cert of you haven't any experience at all in teaching. You can find courses under $1500 usd...just look a little more.

Most employers will not look at an online cert unless you back it with some experience or a corresponding degree.

[ls650]

I knew a fellow who managed to get a TEFL job with only an online certificate - but that was in SE Asia.
If you want a decent job in Latin America, you need something better: either a TEFL certificate with classroom experience, or a uni degree (or both).

[j'aime]

thanks for the replies-- i forgot to mention that I do have a university degree, and i'm currently teaching (although i'm not certified, and i'm not teaching english- i'm teaching environmental education in the US). Would that be enough in latin america? or that + an online TEFL? or am i wasting my time without the real course? also if anyone knows where to look for a cheaper one, i'd be grateful. I've been all over the net, and the cheapest one i found was for 1100 in madrid... but then of course i have to pay to fly there, which doesn't make it very cheap at all.

thanks much
j'aime

[Guy Courchesne]

PM me and I can help you with some options in Mexico on courses.

You should probably take some form of course, as EFL teaching is quite different than what you are now doing. In the end, it will make you that much more employable, and not have you relying on the McTeaching jobs.