Job Discussion Forums

[DNK]

I've been thinking about teaching English abroad for a couple months now, and have decided it would be the best thing for me. I'm going to be applying to the Peace Corps, but since it takes 6-9 months anyway I figured I'd spend a year teaching in the interim.

I just graduated with a cinema degree and have limited teaching experience (some, but not nearly enough to do it every day). So I want to take a course, not for credentials and job requirements, but to actually learn what I'm doing.

So I'm looking at my options, and there are a few:
1. Online course + some local school practicum (about 120 hours in all for 8 weeks)
2. Weekend course
3. SIT TESOL through DePaul University (I have a home in Chicago area) that's a Global TESOL course - 4 weeks, all in person.

I can't afford to go to another state and take a course; so this is it. Prices, of course, vary from each, with #1 being ~$1100, #2 $500>, and #3 $2300. I'm not in a great financial state right now; so if I don't have to spend a lot that would be great.

Anyway, I'm looking to teach probably in Japan. I think I've heard they don't care that much about certs, but like I said this is for me. What do you think about my options?

Thanks,
David

[Glenski]

If you really think you are going to do this full-time for the long term, get the certification that helps you the most.

You are right in thinking that none is needed for work in Japan. Getting started here in EFL can be as simple as working for a conversation school or the JET Programme.

[tedkarma]

The practicum is one of the most important elements of such a course. And, it is best if the practicum is directly tied to a specific couse - so you get consistent feedback that is inline with the instruction you received.

So . . . straight online is not the best option. Nor is online with local practicum - unless those people doing your observed teaching practice have also been trained and are quite familiar with your online course.

Weekend course - not really enough training.

GOOD for you! It is nice to see people who want to get some training so they can do a good job - rather than just doing the very minimum. Students deserve good teachers who know what they are doing. They pay a lot of money to sit in a classroom with you. It is only fair that they get delivered what they paid for. You'll also feel a lot better about the job you do.

Go for it.

[Chris Westergaard]

Many schools will not look at an online course if it doesn't have any practice teaching. Weekend TEFL? - Fuggetabouit