Korean Job Discussion Forums

[dmbfan]

You know, I have noticed something here. There is a definate lack of TEFL/TESL/CELTA opportunities in Korea.

In Thailand, it is a garden of opportunity to optain some qualification. Here in Korea..........nadda, with exception of TEFL International.

It would be a good step, for Korea, to think about trying to provide more opportunities like that for teachers. I was in Thailand briefly last summer, and just about EVERY teacher had a TEFL, or was working on obtaining one.

Anyone care to comment on that?

DMBFAN

[Qinella]

Yeah, good point. My first thought is about demand. Do the jobs in Korea generally require certification? No. Do they in Thailand? I don't know. Do they? If so, that would explain it.

[Guri Guy]

You can work legally in Thailand teaching English without a degree unlike Korea. Usually Thais do ask for some level of competence though and TEFL generally satisfies that criteria. I think all English teachers should have TEFL training though.

[dmbfan]

Well, what I am getting at, is if Korea really wants to be a power house in the EFL industry, why not promote or provide more opportunities for teachers to expand their qualifcations (or at least obtain one)?

In Thailand, you generally need a degree, and most employers ask for a TEFL. Although, if you seem to know the ropes, you are good to go.

I have been teaching almost three years. I don't consider myself a "teacher" per say; more like an instructor. I would love to get my TEFL/CELTA. But, bad timing has been a factor. So, having opportunities here in Korea, even part time, would not only benefit me, but other people as well..........................and it would benefit Korea. Korea can quite complaining about the lack of quality teachers that come here, and actually be "pro-active" about doing something about it.

Just a thought.

Dmbfan