Job Discussion Forums

Binary_Star · Joined: 13 Jun 2011 Posts: 22

What do people mean when they say this?

Binary_Star · Joined: 13 Jun 2011 Posts: 22

As in, is TESOL generic? Or is is CELTA, TESOL and then everything else is generic?

tttompatz · Posted: Wed Aug 03, 2011 10:05 am Post subject:

TESOL, TEFL. TESL are just generic terms for Teaching English (to Speakers of Other Languages / as a Foreign Language / as a Second Language).

They are for all (practical) intents and purposes synonymous terms.

CELTA, Trinity TESOL, and SIT TESOL are the most recognized and respected brand names.

Most of the others that you see advertised are "generic" teacher certifications (unknown brands / quality of instruction).

In terms of course content, if you want it to be respected / recognised then make sure it is comprised of 120 hours (or more) and has at a minimum 6 hours of observed practicum (with real students - NOT peers from your course).

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spiral78 · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 11534 Location: On a Short Leash

My original certification was a 'generic' CELTA equivalent. I never had problems with its recognition, but I do suggest that you describe the course clearly on your CV/resume as having been X number of hours, on-site, and including X hours of supervised teaching practice with actual students. These are the key elements of the reputable courses and you'll want it to be obvious toany potential employer that you have a generic cert that meets the standards.

naturegirl321 · Joined: 04 May 2003 Posts: 9041 Location: home sweet home

ONe that's not a name brand one, like
CELTA
Trinity
SIT

those are the big ones. Places like TEFL International would be a generic one. Doesn't mean that they're bad. Just not one of the big name ones.