Job Discussion Forums

[stejskalova]

I�m curious to see what the impressions are for these �over the weekend- online TEFL certificate programs

[ls650]

Would you pay money to get a haircut from someone who took an "over the weekend- online" hairstyling course? What about a taxi ride from someone who had an "over the weekend- online" driving certificate?

Such a course will give you a piece of paper that is useful for getting a job with a school that wants instructors with a piece of paper, and that is it.

[spiral78]

Most good schools want a cert from a school that requires supervised teaching practice. Do you really want your 'sample' lesson in front of your prospective employer to be your FIRST lesson ever??!!

[Kent F. Kruhoeffer]

Like most questions in life, this isn't a black or white thing, imho.


I agree completely that 'newbies' should sit through an observed

practicum; one which includes constructive criticism and feedback.


For an experienced teacher, however, who suddenly finds himself

in need of a TEFL certificate to satisfy a work permit regulation,

or those wishing to enhance their professional credentials,

the idea of an observed practicum is a moot point.


I support all who decide to further their education,

whether it occurs in a classroom setting or online.


In the OP's poll, I would have added this option:


possibly a good value depending on the individual

circumstances of the particular teacher in question!

[spiral78]

I don't agree that observed teaching practice is a moot point for an 'experienced' teacher. I have been on training courses with people who have been teaching for years and finally needed some kind of official certification - and they can be some of the WORST teachers ever!! Not always, of course - but simply because they have been teaching for some time doesn't guarantee that they know how to do it well!!!

I am nearly finished with my MA TESL/TEFL and have taught for eight years. I still welcome observation and criticism, and feel fortunate to teach in an environment where this is done in a constructive manner. I'm a better teacher for the input of others into my classroom practice.

[Kent F. Kruhoeffer]

^ Good point, spiral78.


Learning should be an ongoing process for all teachers;

those with and without experience. I agree with that.


The point I was trying to make is this:


The lack of observed teaching practice

does not necessarily mean that

a given course is worthless.


I learn new stuff every day without

anybody looking over my shoulder.

[spiral78]

I didn't say that online courses are worthless. You may well have taken some useful information on board. However, whether you can translate that into classroom practice is anybody's guess. That's why online courses are worth less than on-site ones.