Job Discussion Forums

horst · Joined: 24 Apr 2006 Posts: 2

Hi All, I�ve just finished a TEFL course after a career in engineering and business. The course just seemed to touch briefly on the important points. I realised later that the course is not approved by an international institute.
I�ve always liked coaching and working in groups but have no real experience of classroom teaching. If anyone has jumped in the deep end like this then do let me know about your experience.
Should one first try to get some sort of training in addition to the TEFL course or do you just jump and swim? Eventually I�d prefer to teach adults but what level should one start with?

peterpan13 · Joined: 21 Jul 2005 Posts: 64 Location: neverneverland

Where u want to start teaching depends on various factors such as location, job requirements and if the employer is willing to give you a go depending on your current qualifications.
But you have to start somewhere to get experience so go for it and start making those applications.
As an experienced ESL teacher, I can honestly say that you can never have enough teaching experience and we can all learn something new in any situation.
Perhaps, you should look at some extra training to gain recognised qualifications (do your research here) while you are getting some "on the job" experience at the same time.
When I did my Masters Degree in Education (TESL), there was a practical teaching component as part of the course.Luckily, some of my fellow students were ESL Teachers and they were able to help me get part-time teaching jobs while I was studying.

tedkarma · Posted: Sun Apr 30, 2006 1:59 am Post subject:

Jump in - you've gotten your basic training. You'll want more later, but now is the time to get a bit of experience under your belt. Most employers will only be concerned that your TEFL training had some observed teaching practice. Others will be glad just that you tried to educate yourself a little before you started.

I joined the TEFL world at 39 (in 1992) and you'll find lots of us, uh . . . "slightly older folks" in the business.

If confidence is an issue - you might start with younger learners rather than adults - though they are challenging in their own way!

horst · Joined: 24 Apr 2006 Posts: 2

Thanks guys your replies are like music to mt ears. For one I will probably review coutry options better now before committing. Secondly Ted, I visited you site and found the manuals very interesting as a resource. Would cost several bob from a booksshop.
Thanks again to you both for your helpful comments. Horst

tedkarma · Posted: Thu May 04, 2006 12:04 am Post subject:

Horst,

One thing "older" new teachers should try - is to marry their old career with their new one. I have an MBA and worked in the business world a bit before I started in TEFL and found some of my best success teaching business English classes. My experience gave me all the vocabulary that other teachers wouldn't know - and credibility with my students - that other teachers wouldn't have.

Personally, just my opinion, you might look for junior colleges or even university business or engineering programs - and see if you can fit in there. I always found business English to be MUCH more enjoyable to teach than general English. And, the students often had similar interests as I did - I found talking about their business fascinating - and they enjoyed having a teacher who was impressed by their knowledge and expertise - rather than being unknowledgeable of their field.

You have a valuable store of experience and knowledge - try to mix it with your new skills and you may find yourself enjoying yourself more - and becoming quite valuable in your special area.

This is an approach that will allow you to feel more confident as you begin your new career.