Korean Job Discussion Forums

[ladyandthetramp]

Lately I've been considering getting TESOL or EFL/ESL certification, but I'm not quite sure what the difference is between them (and others which I didn't list). Is one of them more preferable when looking for jobs here in Korea?

Also, does it really matter whether I take an online course as opposed to attending classes? Or let me rephrase that: if I already have a degree from a reputable university, will a school really care if my TESOL, etc. course was done online as opposed to attending a class?

And finally, for those who have obtained such certification while in Korea, where did you do it?

[the eye]

most hakwans dont really give a hoot about certification. however, sometimes, it can be used as a negotiating tool for more pay....providing you actually find a school that is concerned with more than how cheaply they can hire a native speaker.
if you are only going to be in korea for a year or two, i suggest you forget about certification. however, if you are going to make a career out of this, you should look into CELTA certification as it provides solid teaching instruction. or, look into a masters degree in TESOL.
its my personal belief that TESOL certification is a hoax. i was foolish enough to take peter appletons teach and travel tesol course....what a load of bull that was! there was a dude in my class who could barely speak english himself...in his lesson presentation i couldn't understand a word he said...and they certified him.

[sadsac]

I would agree with the eyeand not bother with TESOL, if you are considering Asia in general. A masters will give you more prestige than TESOL. Most of the teachers that I have met that have done the certification found it a waste of money for teaching in Korea. Your choice though.