Job Discussion Forums

Hallie · Joined: 09 Jun 2003 Posts: 3 Location: Canada

Alright I'm new at this so don't laugh at me. Embarassed

What's the difference between TESOL, TEFL, TOEFL, and CELTA? Not all countries require you to have a certifcate in them do they? I have a B.A. and a B.Ed. so would I need one of those certificates if I already have my teaching certification (B.Ed.)?

bnix · Joined: 16 Jan 2003 Posts: 645

If you have a B.Ed., you already have appreciably more qualifications than a lot of people "teaching" in this field. At least you have a degree in education, not philosophy,animal husbandry, basketweaving,etc. Laughing

Of course, it also depends on where and at what level you wish to teach.Generally speaking, those cert things exist to put money in the pockets of the people who run the programs.I am not saying they are ALL useless or crooked, just most of them.If you do decide you want and must have a cert, do a lot of shopping around and research before you hand any money to anyone.There are a lot of scam artists in the "certificate" business. Rolling Eyes

As for the difference between all those acronyms,TESOL,TEFL,etc...nobody REALLY cares, probably.It is probably just really a case if you can't dazzle 'em with your brilliance,baffle 'em with your BS. That said, maybe those distinctions are important to a few people in the field(or at least they think they are important), and I am sure we will hear from some of them on this matter.

Good luck.Again, think it over carefully,and do your research before deciding to get a cert and before you give any money to anyone. That B.Ed you already have will be sufficient to get you a job in TESOL in many,if not most situations.

Celeste · Posted: Sun Jun 22, 2003 10:20 pm Post subject:

ESL Guru · Joined: 18 May 2003 Posts: 462

Celeste is right!

In one sense they are all the same. They certify that you are an instant expert in teaching ESL.

Each is different in that they teach a different pedogogy and methodology.

Unfortunately, some of our learned admins over blow their value and require a particular one as a job qualification.

In reality, you will obtain on the job experience that is much more valuable for someone with your credentials.

Bottom line, they are money making machines, cash cows.

Many high school graduates obtain one and then teach. Or someone with a non-English major obtains one and then tries to teach.

I could write a book .....