The best English-language remakes – As Downhill – the underwhelming US remake of Ruben Östlund’s Force Majeure – hits the cinemas, we present the finest reimagining of foreign-language films.
Clint Eastwood has never been hip, exactly, but there was a time when he exuded a sort of counter-culture credibility – and it’s largely down to this brilliant film from Sergio Leone, which introduced the idea of the “spaghetti western” to the world. As has been exhaustively documented, Dollars is in fact a key piece in a jigsaw of east-west cultural exchange: Leone had seen and was inspired by Akira Kurosawa’s 1961 swordsman picture Yojimbo, which itself had taken key ideas from Dashiell Hammett (notably The Glass Key and Red Harvest). Leone never acknowledged the films’ similarities, and later settled out of court with Kurosawa. But Fistful’s legacy lives on: not only in its sequels, For a Few Dollars More and The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, but also in spaghetti’s enduring influence via obsessives of the Tarantino persuasion.
After reading “The best English-language remakes”, you can check important issues for ESL teachers on the section PDFs. And visit my channel by YouTube.
What is meant by research, and how do we identify Second Language Research Methodology good research questions?
These are questions that are not always easy to answer, but we anticipate that by the end of this book you will be in a better position to think about them. This book is intended to be practical in nature, aimed at those who are involved in second language studies and second/foreign language teaching. We recognize that many people are often put off by the word research, including teachers who have been teaching for quite some time but are not involved in research, and those who are just beginning in the field. We hope to demystify the process.
The American Heritage College Dictionary defined research as “scholarly or scientific investigation or inquiry” or as a verb “to study (something) thoroughly” (2000). Thus, in its most basic and simplest form, research is a way of finding out answers to questions.
A Good Book
We begin by reminding the reader that we are all involved in research every day. For example, consider what is probably part of many of our lives—being stuck in a traffic jam. As we find ourselves not moving on a freeway, we ask why this has happened and come up with a hypothesis (e.g., because there is an accident ahead, or because it is 5:00 P.M. on a Friday afternoon).
We then seek verification of our hypothesis by waiting patiently (or impatiently) until the traffic starts moving again. If we see an accident or the flashing lights of an emergency vehicle, we can confirm or at least strengthen our hypothesis. In the absence of an accident, we might conclude that it must be typical rush hour traffic. In other words, every day we ask questions, come up with hypotheses, and seek confirmation of those hypotheses.
After reading “Second Language Research Methodology”, you can check important issues for ESL teachers on the section PDFs. You can also visit my channel on YouTube.
PDF #173- ESL Teaching books – Techniques and Principles in Language Teaching helps you to learn about The Political Dimensions of Language Teaching. In many different language teaching methods, to uncover the thoughts that guide your own actions as a teacher, and introduces you to a variety of techniques.
The third edition includes chapters on: The Grammar-Translation Method, The Direct Method, The Audio-Lingual Method, The Silent Way, Desuggestopedia, Community Language Learning, Total Physical Response, Communicative Language Teaching, Content-based Instruction, Task-based Language Teaching, The Political Dimensions of Language Teaching and the Participatory Approach Learning Strategy Training, Cooperative Learning, and Multiple Intelligences Emerging Uses of Technology in Language Teaching and Learning View Diane Larsen-Freeman explaining the need to consider a range of methods in language teaching, and how methods continue to evolve.
The Political Dimensions of Language Teaching and the Participatory Approach
This chapter of the book they take a look at the politics of language use and language teaching. We also discuss one language teaching method, the Participatory Approach, which pays particular attention to the political dimensions of education.
The Politics of Language
Learning a language is a political act. Those that know a language are empowered in a way that those who do not know the language are not. These days, because of its status as an international language, it is English that is seen to be the language of power.1 Many people around the world want to learn English because they believe that it will help them to get a good education or job. They feel that knowing English gives them a greater chance for economic advancement. ‘On the one hand,’ Graddol (2006: 22) notes, ‘the availability of English as a global language is accelerating globalization.
On the other, the globalization is accelerating the use of English.’ This view sees English as a tool that benefits the individual who learns it. Other people, however, express concern about what is lost when an individual learns English or ‘adds’ an English-speaking identity. They worry that learning English might mean losing some ability in another language—even an individual’s native language—or that a new identity as an English speaker might cause another identity to fade or to die. They are also concerned about the educational inequality that results. After all, not everyone has the opportunity to study English. More generally, some worry about English dominance leading to the loss of endangered languages, such as those spoken by indigenous people and immigrants living in countries where English use predominates, especially when ‘English only’ policies are adopted.
After reading “The Political Dimensions of Language Teaching”, you can check important issues for ESL teachers on the section PDFs. You can also visit my channel on YouTube.
Pronunciation on ESL Textbooks – Many instructors are reluctant to teach pronunciation in adult ESL classrooms, often because of lack of formal training. However, significant numbers of ESL students want pronunciation instruction. Although stand-alone pronunciation courses for second-language (L2) learners exist, many students cannot gain access to them.
One approach to meeting the needs of both instructors and students is for general-skills L2 textbooks to include pronunciation activities. We examined 12 ESL general-skills textbook series (48 texts in total) and six accompanying teachers’ manuals to determine to what extent these popular books include pronunciation activities and how consistent the texts are across individual series.
We also recorded which aspects of L2 pronunciation are the focus of the lessons. Task types were examined in a subset of five series. We found striking variability in the concentration of pronunciation activities both across and within series. Similarly, whereas some textbooks used several task types, others relied heavily on a limited range.
Furthermore, some texts offered little in terms of explicit explanations. In some instances teachers’ manuals provided instructors with guidance; others included little more than repeated admonitions to remind the students to monitor their L2 pronunciation. The implications for teachers of general ESL courses are discussed.
After reading “Pronunciation on ESL Textbooks “, you can check important issues for ESL teachers on the section PDFs. And visit my channel by YouTube.
ESL Teaching Online – Moving online helps you take control of your teaching, income, and where you live and work. It’s a lot of fun, and as you probably know, many teachers have decided to teach English online.
ESL Teaching Online in the old days
In the last decade or so, the ESL teaching industry has been changing. A teacher no longer has to travel across borders to teach foreign students. Better yet, a teacher doesn’t even have to struggle to find a classroom or workspace to meet in person. Instead, it can teach ESL online from home! And it doesn’t even have to get out of your pjs! Strike that. On second thought, a teacher should always throw on something a bit more professional because it still wants to look the part. After all, teaching English online is a paid job and it’s one you should take seriously.
Ups and Downs
Teaching English in person and teaching ESL online from home are super different. Forget using outdated textbooks and photocopying boring worksheets! Teaching English online kicks because you can access so many cool resources including YouTube videos, blogs, and online ESL language apps and games! However, you may hit a few snags regarding how to teach English online.
First of all, when you teach a student in person, you can rely on verbal and nonverbal cues (like body language) that happen in real time to let you know if you’re on the right track. With online teaching, this is also doable but more challenging.
Another roadblock is tech issues. Here’s how to teach English online badly. Use a really bad connection so that in the middle of your lesson, your screen freezes and you sound as though you have a really bad stutter. Don’t get me started on bad audio. Teaching and learning English is primarily about listening and speaking so if you and your student can’t hear each other well, it can quickly turn into a train wreck. You need to know your software inside out and to be able to do basic troubleshooting. Also, one skill you must have in any online environment is patience.
You can even teach when you are in the Namibian desert
Another thing that makes teaching English online different is the fact that you and your students will most likely be operating in two different time zones. This is awesome if you’re a night owl or work shifts. It goes without saying that you have to be able to manage your time and schedule very well to avoid missing classes and those essential.
What to do about ESL Teaching Online?
As you probably taught in classrooms before, this transition can be a bit too much. But remember, you are adapting to new technologies and it is not the strongest that survive but the ones who are willing to adapt.
The main thing you should have in mind is that you are now a brand. And, as a brand you gonna need to settle, to have a homebased, and that is your website. To create a website you will need to learn how to buy a domain name, I suggest HostGator, and you will need to learn about WordPress.
Once you are settled and can show the world who you are, it is time to work on your social media. Be smart about how you present this. Focus on offering valuable lessons, and by putting yourself out there, in order to attract learners.
How about teaching on the top of Table Mountain
It is good to point out that in general, teaching English online pays between USD10 – USD25 / hour. It could be a nice addition to your current income. This is especially true if you’re basing yourself in a country with a low cost of living.
In some cases, you must commit to a certain amount of hours each week, while in others, you set the teaching schedule.
For whom is ESL Teaching Online Good?
Not only is teaching English online a great job for digital nomads and remote workers, but it’s also an excellent gig for stay at home parents and retired people who want to keep busynow that their careers are finished.
Time is the most important thing in life. In North America, people are taught tou work hard until they are around 60, 65 or 70 years old and then reap the rewards of retirement afterwards.
Doesn’t that seem strange to start living your life during an age when one’s body and mind are no longer at the optimal state? It simply might not be possible to do that epic trek you’ve been dreaming about, or that scuba diving certification you’ve wanted to complete.
For most teachers, this job is coupled with another form of income (such as travel blogging), or at least supplemented with free accommodation through house sitting or some other sort of exchange.
First things first. If you haven’t already, you better get TEFL certified stat! Now, you may be thinking, I don’t need any qualifications to teach English because I help my baby sister with her English homework all the time! Wrong! Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is a totally different ballgame! Remember this: teaching English to native speakers is not the same as teaching English to non-native speakers. If you want to learn how to teach English online and get money, a good TEFL course will give you a solid grounding in TEFL-specific teaching methodology and other essential skills.
Teaching English online from home is one option…
When most people think about teach English online jobs, they automatically picture someone in their bedroom chatting away with a foreigner who’s more than a couple time zones away. This is certainly true in some ways. If you choose to teach ESL online from home, it definitely has its perks.
Reason number one: you never have to leave your comfy digs! That means no gridlock, no mascara-wand-in-eye mishaps, no hustle to get a cup of Joe at Starbucks, no soggy packed lunches, no long lines at your favorite food truck! Plus, you get to play with Sparky or Simba all day as he snuggles your feet under the table! You can also plan your teach English online jobs around your personal schedule (gym, me-time, picking up dry cleaning etc.) because you’re your own boss. Hell yeah!
Teaching English Online From WHEREVER!
Teach English online jobs mean that you aren’t limited to teaching from home! You heard me right. You can take that side gig/career with you, wherever you roam in the world! If the digital nomad lifestyle is a-calling you, consider searching out the best online ESL jobs to make top dollar while you travel around the globe.
Because many teach English online jobs are freelance, you can clock in as many hours required, whenever you want! Unlike teaching apps abroad that come with contracts that mean you have to be rooted in a particular place for a particular time, teaching English online is perfect for nomads who are always on the move. The best online ESL jobs are super convenient and flexible, open 24/7, whatever time zone you’re in.
How about Rio?
If you want to learn how to teach English online and get money quick, you have to invest in the right gear. That means you need a decent PC/Mac/laptop, a high-quality webcam and headset, a comfortable workspace (you’ll probably be sitting most of the time), and a super quiet room. Sorry but that means kicking Sparky and Simba out during classes. Fast internet speed is also a given. Check that you have enough RAM to run certain software programs. Also, make sure you are based in an area that has a reliable electricity supply or at least a backup generator.
Where to look for a job?
Now that you’re bent on online English teaching, where do you look for a job? First off, there are several organizations who’ve jumped on the teaching English online bandwagon. Your job is to separate the good from the bad. Start by reading reviews on the provider’s website and other external sites. Talk to people who’ve actually worked with the companies.
How about in a hotel in Jambiani?
Depending on where you decide to work and what type of arrangement you are looking for, it’s important that you “shop around” for teaching English online jobs before you find the right one for you. Be sure to look at the fine print, communicate expectations clearly, and talk with other ESL teachers to ensure the org is legit and that money WILL end up in your bank account.
Is the business reputable and accredited by an external body? Scan its website. Grammatical errors and bad writing style should be a dead giveaway that these people should not be in the business of teaching English—online or otherwise! Once you’ve settled on a company, get the WiFi password and start teaching.
Resources
Finding jobs for teaching English online is no easy task, but when you find the one, you’ll know it. Ready to plug into the Matrix? Here are some more resources to help you decide if teaching English online is for you!
Whether you’re teaching ESL online or in-person, many games and activities can translate easily. Just get a little more creative and feel comfortable operating in the one-on-one space versus the world of large learning groups.
We know you’re in it not only for the professional experience, but to also make some cash-money, right?! That Euro Trip isn’t going to pay for itself. Enjoy!
Munich is not a bad place to visit while teaching online, but it is expensive
The necessary qualifications
Teaching English is a rewarding and enriching experience – both in-person and online. There are lots of online teaching jobs out there. But if you want to teach English online, you need to make sure you’re going with a reputable company. Unfortunately for those of you who aren’t from Canada, the US, or the UK you won’t be able to work with the companies that pay better.
Prague in the Czech Republic it ain’t bad
Wondering what is the best company to teach English online? It depends on your qualifications. In most cases, no previous experience is required, but it helps if you have worked with younger children in the past and have taken a TEFL course — which will give you a proper understanding of lesson plans and how to run a class.
You can teach English Online if you meet these requirements — almost all of the companies will require the following:
Native English speaker, or near-native English speaker
Solid internet connection, microphone, webcam, and quiet space for lessons
You have a Bachelor’s degree or you are currently enrolled (in some cases this isn’t obligatory)
A TEFL Certificate (in some cases this isn’t obligatory)
You’re from Canada, the UK, or the United States (in some cases all first language English countries)
You are enthusiastic, passionate, and positive
These are the basic requirements to teach English online. And yes, you do need a TEFL certificate to teach English online for higher paying companies.
When applying to teach English online is to submit your application to more than one company. The more places you apply, the greater your odds are of getting hired.
The Companies
I really don’t think having a university degree in any subject should be a requirement to teach English online. Plus, if you have a TEFL certificate, are a native English speaker, have a good internet connection, and are enthusiastic, your odds of getting accepted for the job will be much higher.
Visiting the LORT set while online teaching
However, there are some great companies to consider if you don’t have your TEFL: PrePly, Cambly, and Skimatalk don’t require a TEFL certificate. EF Education First only requires a 40 hour TEFL which you can easily (and affordably) obtain here.
If you’re currently living in the USA or the UK, EF Education First or PrePly are great options for you!
There’s also the opportunity to earn bonuses and referral pay. Plus, if a student cancels on you, you will receive compensation.
Some companies pay via PayPal or Payoneer, while others do a direct deposit to your bank account.
After reading “ESL Teaching Online”, you can check important issues for ESL teachers on the section PDFs. You can also visit my channel on YouTube.
English Teaching Assistant – Have you ever thought about working abroad? Usually these programs are for Americans trying to work on German universities.
The program helps to improve the teaching of the English language and American studies at all types of German schools. U.S. teaching assistants usually cooperate closely with a German teacher of English and take over certain responsibilities in the classroom, especially with regard to projects on the U.S. The duration of the award is usually one school year, beginning in early September and ending in late June.
University affiliation and part-time study may be feasible when the assigned school is located in or near a town with a university.
The program is administered by Fulbright Germany in close cooperation with the Pädagogischer Austauschdienst (PAD) in Bonn.
Approximately 140 grants are available, all in the full maintenance category.
More information on the personal profile and expected duties and responsibilities of a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant (ETA) can be found here.
Grant Benefits
Monthly stipend of currently Euro 850
Health insurance
International travel (according to the guidelines set by Fulbright Germany)
Current German visa regulations require a valid passport for American grantees traveling to Germany. Fulbright Germany assists its grantees in applying for a residence permit after arrival.
Orientation and mid-year meetings
General administrative support through Fulbright Germany in Berlin.
English Teaching Assistant – Third Head
Berlin
Eligibility
U.S. students holding at least a B.A. by the time of arrival in Germany, typically in German or German Studies, but other subjects will be considered if applicants have a good German proficiency.
Applicants with a U.S.-German dual citizenship are not eligible.
English Teaching Assistant – Requirements
U.S. citizenship
A high level of academic achievement
Good German proficiency (at least two years of college-level German)
Paris
Application Procedure & Deadlines
The application procedure is handled by the Institute of International Education. Please check their website first.
Applicants still affiliated with a university should consult the Fulbright Program Advisor at their institution for application information and deadline. At-large applicants (no longer at a university) should contact the Institute of International Education directly.
Applicants should contact their advisor or the IIE in the spring preceding the year in which they wish to teach in Germany. (For example, those who would like to teach in the academic year 2021-2022 should contact an advisor in the spring of 2020.)
München
The IIE Online application system closes at 5:00 P.M. EST and applications have to be fully submitted by then. Further information on the IIE timeline is available here.
All applications will be reviewed by special selection committees, and grants are awarded in competition and depending on funds available.
English Teaching Assistant – Programs
The English Teaching Assistant (ETA) Programs place Fulbrighters in classrooms abroad to provide assistance to the local English teachers. ETAs help teach English language while serving as cultural ambassadors for the U.S. The age and academic level of the students varies by country, ranging from kindergarten to university level. Applicants for ETA Programs can apply to only one country. Consult the table below for details on specific country requirements and numbers of awards.
After reading “English Teaching Assistant”, you can check important issues for ESL teachers on the section PDFs. You can also visit my channel on YouTube.
English Teaching Certificate Online – What is TESOL?
English Teaching Certificate Online – TESOL stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. When people refer to “having a TESOL” , what they mean is having a TESOL certificate.
Why TESOL?
Teaching English as a foreign language is the perfect way to travel the world. You can enjoy a fantastic adventure, while inspiring the next generation. Have in mind, English will not stop being the lingua franca. So let’s try to connect as many people as possible. The way to do that? Teach them English.
We know what it is to feel the excitement and trepidation of embarking on a new adventure. I’ve been there! If you are nervous, don’t worry, your dedicated ESL online tutor is there to help you. Also, I provide you with all the training, tools and support you need to help you become a confident and inspiring ESL teacher.
You can achieve your accredited TESOL certification in an accessible and affordable way, and you don’t need any previous teaching experience. If you speak English fluently, you have everything you need to get started with the course and teach English abroad or online from home.
In late 2018, the Chinese Ministry of Education announced they would be implementing tighter requirements for teachers. Especially for those teachers who teach Chinese to primary and/or to middle-school students.
As of November 2019, all major online English teaching companies require their teachers to have 120-hour teaching certificates.
What’s the Difference Between TESL, TEFL, TESOL, CELTA?
TESL stands for Teaching English as a Second Language and refers to teaching English to non-native speakers in a native-speaking country.
TEFL stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language and refers to teaching English to non-native speakers in a country where English is NOT an official language.
TESOL is an umbrella term that stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages and refers to teaching English to non-native speakers in your home country, or abroad. TESOL certificates are generally more in-depth and deliver more learning material.
CELTA stands for Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults.
Do I Really Need a TESOL Certificate to Get Hired?
A few years ago in this industry, it was simply an asset.
As of November 2019, the Chinese Ministry of Education requires that all online English teachers that teach Chinese students have a 120-hour teaching certificate. The majority of companies in the online English teaching industry serve Chinese students.
VIPKid will actually train new recruits and give them a TESOL certificate before they start teaching on the VIPKid platform. However, if you already have one, you are more likely to be hired, and you can skip that part of the training process. On top of that, VIPKid’s TESOL certificate isn’t recognized by other online English teaching companies.
Does it really take 120 hours?
For anybody who is familiar with the English language or education in general, the course can take much less than 120 hours.
However if teaching English is totally new to you, you may need the full amount of time.
English Teaching Certificate Online – A Bit of History
For decades, people have traveled the world, classroom by classroom, teaching English to students of all ages. To take on this education adventure abroad, one must earn a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language), TESL (Teaching English in native speaking English countries to speakers of foreign languages) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages certificates.
These certificates differ slightly depending on your specialization goals. TEFL one is the most comprehensive and widely accepted for teaching position.
There is growing global access to TEFL/TESL/TESOL programs because of to the advent of distance learning.
Future English teachers can enroll in an online TEFL certificate program, most of which are affordable enough to fit almost any budget constraints. For those interested in more general information regarding distance learning, check out our ranking of the top online colleges.
Rating and Ranking Methodologies
Quality of online classroom portal and learning resources (1-3 points)
Student-teaching practicum or similar experiential learning opportunities (1-4 points)
Range of TEFL/TESOL/TESL courses that provide an accredited, reputable certificate (1-3 points)
Quality and range of job placement opportunities (1-4 points)
Graduate testimonials and reviews (1-4 points)
An additional point was awarded for noteworthy features that made it a top TEFL certificate online.
English Teaching Certificate Online – Are there any age restrictions?
Our courses are designed for those aged 16 and over. When it comes to finding work teaching English abroad, there can be age restrictions on some working visas.
Can I take a TEFL course if I have a disability?
Of course. If you require any special arrangements to take either the classroom or online course, please get in touch, and we will be happy to assist you.
Which course should I take?
There are several different courses, but a simple rule is that the more you learn, the more prepared and more confident you are. Also, your CV will look more competitive if you have a 140-hour course rather than a 20-hour course. However, some people have teaching experience and already have the confidence to take a class and therefore enrol in the online-only course. It depends on you. If you have any doubts, give us a call, and we can discuss which course would suit your needs.
English Teaching Certificate Online – Can non-native English speakers teach English?
Yes, but it can be more difficult to find work as an English teacher as some schools/recruiters stipulate native English speaking teacher (NEST) on job advertisements.
I am a qualified teacher. Do I need a TEFL certificate to teach English abroad?
Yes, language schools abroad will look for EFL teacher applicants to have a recognised TEFL qualification. We find that the majority of qualified teachers we train choose to opt for our 120-hour Premier Online TEFL Course. Learn more: TEFL for Qualified Teachers
English Teaching Certificate Online – What qualifications do I need to apply for a course?
We believe that if you can speak English, you have the potential to teach it. Therefore, we only ask that you are a native-level speaker of English and that you have the enthusiasm to learn something new. No other qualifications or teaching experience necessary.
After reading “English Teaching Certificate Online”, you can check important issues for ESL teachers on the section PDFs. And visit my channel by YouTube.
English Teaching Overseas – Every year, tens of thousands of people go overseas and teach English. Young and old, they go for many reasons: to learn about a new culture, make some money to travel, seek adventure, or just experience something new.
The time I spent teaching English overseas in Asia was life-changing. In Thailand and Taiwan, I learned that I could make friends and start a life in a strange place, as well as adapt and thrive in a different culture. It gave me a confidence that nothing else before had ever done. It helped make me a better version of me.
Yet, with seemingly millions of places to teach, most people often wonder: where are the best places to teach English overseas? What countries provide the best experience, pay, or benefits? Here’s my list of where to score a fun, rewarding, and well-paying job teaching English overseas:
Countries
South Korea
South Korea is one of the best places — if not the best — to teach English overseas. Jobs are abundant, the pay averages $1,600-2,600 USD per month, and you get awesome benefits, like a contract completion bonus, free housing, and airfare reimbursement.
A lot of recent college graduates are attracted to Korea because of the money, benefits, and the fact that Korea takes many first-time teachers. If you don’t have any experience, this country is one of the best options for you. As a place to live, Korea has plenty of things going for it: the food is delicious, the country is dirt cheap, and the people are friendly.
Plus you will find lots of other international young expats there. Since you earn so much money in a country with such a low cost of living, most people leave having paid off a substantial portion of their debts! You could easily walk away after a year of teaching with your loans (school or non-school) paid off AND money for travel!
2. Japan
Japan has a reputation for good jobs which means it also attracts as many people as South Korea. Though the years of easily teaching in Japan and making quick cash are long, long over, people willing to stay at least a year can generally save a substantial sum of money.
While the cost of living can eat up a lot of your salary, especially in Tokyo, there are a number of programs out there (including the government’s JET program) that reward long-term teachers with generous benefits and completion bonuses.
Additionally, the Japanese are incredibly friendly and polite, the food is endless gourmet heaven, and the culture is unique. It’s one of my favorite countries in the world.
3. The Middle East
The Middle East lures many teachers in for one reason: its salary packages. Middle Eastern countries offer incredibly large salaries (up to $70,000 USD per year for an experienced teacher), lots of benefits, and no taxes. A teacher can walk away with around $40,000 USD after one year.
However, this is no place for the recent college graduate. These countries want certified and experienced teachers. If you couldn’t teach at a public school in your home country, you have little chance of getting a job in this part of the world. As such, most of the teachers here are older and more settled and have families.
Dubai, Qatar, Abu Dhabi, and Saudi Arabia are the most popular destinations for teaching English in this region.
4. Thailand
Thailand attracts lots of young and new teachers with its cheap cost of living, warm beautiful weather, tropical beaches, mouth-watering food, and party atmosphere.
Most of the language school teachers are ex-travelers looking to save for future travels…or travelers who thought they were doing that but ended up never leaving. The pay in Thailand isn’t that high ($1,000–1,500 USD per month), unless you teach in Bangkok or at an international school.
However, teaching English in Thailand isn’t about making lots of money — it’s about everything else: the ease of getting a job, the food, the fun-loving atmosphere, the weather, and everything in between. It’s one of the best destinations for young, new teachers, especially in a larger city, since you’ll fit right in.
5. China
As China rises in global stature, its need for English teacher grows as more and more citizens need to know the language for their job. Moreover, the culture puts an emphasis on learning it. As such, it is one of the easiest places to find work. No matter where you go, you can find work, even in saturated cities like Beijing and Shanghai.
You can earn a decent salary teaching English here (upward of $1,500-2,000 USD a month), and many jobs give completion bonuses, free housing, and airfare reimbursement.
China is the brave new world and a country in constant change. It’s a good location for teachers of all abilities — there’s something for everyone there!
6. Prague
Prague has a seemingly abundant supply of teaching jobs. The city has grown in size over the last few years, attracting a variety of tech start-ups and expats, which has created a lot more job opportunities for teachers.
While it’s very hard to get a job in the public school system or a university, there are plenty of language schools in the city to choose from. The pay isn’t as high as other countries in the world and there are few benefits (especially when compared to Asia or the Middle East), but you’re a stone’s throw away from everywhere in Europe.
The city is one of the most beautiful, vibrant, fun, and popular cities in Europe, which makes Prague an excellent central base from which to explore the continent.
7. Spain
Teaching in Spain is one of the best opportunities for anyone looking to work in Europe. There are plenty of jobs, the government has an active program for attracting teachers, and your visa means you can freely travel around Europe.
There are also many opportunities to teach private lessons on the side. You don’t get many benefits (or high pay compared to Asia or the Middle East), but the pay is still enough to live off of.
8. Taiwan
Taiwan is an excellent country to teach English in, thanks to lots of job opportunities (though they tend to be with young kids), high salaries, benefits similar to South Korea, and lots of other young teachers to share a social life with. The country places a high importance on learning English, and you’ll be able to find freelance tutor opportunities besides your regular, steady teaching job!
I loved my time in Taiwan, made some wonderful friends, and adapted to a completely new culture.
English Teaching Overseas – Third Head
After reading “English Teaching Overseas”, you can check important issues for ESL teachers on the section PDFs. You can also visit my channel on YouTube.
I had a lot of fun teaching English overseas. It was on my favorite experiences on the road and it taught me so much about myself. You gain a lot of perspective on life by living in another culture.
While there is an opportunity to teach wherever English isn’t the native language, the destinations above draw the biggest crowds, offer the best pay, the best perks, and are the most fun.
If you are thinking about becoming an English teacher overseas, my advice is to head to one of these destinations and just do it!
Living in a foreign country, working as a teacher, and making money — teaching abroad sounds nice, doesn’t it?
It almost sounds too good to be true, but luckily it’s an opportunity available to people of various backgrounds, education levels, and experience. Teaching abroad is an incredible experience that gives you the chance to immerse yourself in a different culture, learn a new language, explore new frontiers, and forge wonderful new friendships.
There are over 1 billion people learning English as a second language worldwide, so the demand for English teachers is high. You don’t need a degree in English, prior teaching experience, or even a college degree at all to find a position. So what’s the catch? Well, it’s important to remember that hiring requirements are different in each country and school, so you need to find a job that works for your level of education and expertise. Here are some frequently asked questions about the requirements needed to teach abroad.
Do You Need a College Degree to Teach Abroad?
In some countries — especially in western Europe, the Persian Gulf, and parts of Asia — a college degree is officially (and sometimes unofficially) required to be hired as a teacher. Other times, individual schools may have their own requirements, depending on whether they are public, private, or follow a particular teaching methodology.
However, there are plenty of other countries where English speakers without a four-year degree can be paid to teach English, including most of Latin America, Eastern Europe, and certain countries in Asia, such as Cambodia and China.
There is plenty of information available online that compares the degree requirements for teaching English in over 50 countries around the world. You can also find additional information, such as salary expectations, hiring seasons, and visa requirements, that will help you decide where to go.
Do You Need a TEFL Certificate before Teaching Abroad?
A TEFL certificate verifies that you’ve completed training to teach English as a foreign language (TEFL). Though it is possible to find a position without training or prior experience, a TEFL certificate will make the job search easier by opening the door to more opportunities in more countries; otherwise, you’ll have to restrict your search to certain areas. Without a TEFL certificate, you can also work as a volunteer.
Regardless of whether or not it’s required, a TEFL certificate is still recommended. There is rarely any training prior to getting started as a teacher, so the course will teach you the skills you need to provide a good English education to your students. Additionally, it is a requirement for many schools and it is even a legal requirement in some countries. As an added bonus, most TEFL courses will help you find and apply to jobs based on your interests and background.
Do You Need Teaching Experience before Teaching Abroad?
Though teaching experience is useful and it’s what some schools are looking for, the only way to gain experience is to work! Luckily, having teaching experience is not required by most schools, and thousands of English speakers find work every year without prior experience.
However, having a TEFL certificate will make your application more attractive to potential employers and will give you an edge over other applicants. Countries as diverse as Turkey, Mexico, and Kazakhstan will hire teachers with a TEFL certificate but with no experience.
Countries with the most lucrative teaching positions, such as the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, require prior teaching experience, but those countries make up the minority.
Do You Have to be a Native English Speaker to Teach English Abroad?
Whether you need to be a native English speaker to teach abroad depends on where you want to go. Latin American countries do not usually care if you are a native English speaker or not, but the Gulf countries and many major Asian countries — such as China, Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam — prefer to hire native English speakers. For some programs, such as the Cultural Ambassador program in Spain, being a citizen of a native English-speaking country is a requirement.
For European citizens, you may have an easier time of finding positions if you’re not a native English speaker by working within the European Union, where there are many positions that are not open to non-Europeans.
If you want to teach English abroad but are not a native speaker, you must consider:
Your level of fluency
Your accent and comprehensibility
Your training and experience. Finding a job will be easier if you have a university degree, TEFL certification, or prior teaching experience.
Your passport. Citizens of certain countries may have a harder time finding a teaching position due to different visa requirements, though things can be easier if you are already a permanent resident of the country you wish to teach in.
Do You Have to be Young to Teach Abroad?
Some teaching programs are restricted to certain age groups — for example, the French TAPIF assistantship program is only open to people between the ages of 20-35. However, there are so many opportunities out there that people of all ages can teach abroad.
If you’re younger than 20, you may have trouble finding a full-time teaching job, but you can still gain experience in the meantime by volunteering overseas or working at summer camps. If you’re older and are looking to go overseas, you should be able to find work depending on your experience. Southeast Asian countries, such as Vietnam and Cambodia, as well as many Latin American countries have plenty of opportunities for older adults.
Do You Have to Have “Startup Money” before Teaching Abroad?
Photo by David, Ninja Teacher Vietnam Alum
You certainly do not have to pay to teach. Just make sure that you have enough money to cover your flights and the first month of living expenses. Though there are some positions that will cover your flights and “startup costs,” in the Gulf countries, in particular, it’s better to have an emergency fund just in case. The specific amount you’ll need depends on the cost of living where you are teaching, but between $1,000-$2,000 would be a good idea.
Those participating in a volunteer program may have to pay tuition to cover housing and program costs. There are also organizations such as CIEE that will help you obtain a visa, find accommodation, and secure a position in exchange for a reasonable fee.
What Else Do You Need to Teach Abroad?
Teaching English abroad is an exciting way to immerse yourself in a new culture while building your resume. It’s not always easy, but it certainly can be very rewarding.
Though requirements may differ from country to country and school to school, what’s most important is to keep an open mind and a spirit of adventure. Having a TEFL certificate will certainly help expand your options as well. However, if you meet the requirements and you have the motivation and desire to go overseas and make a difference in both your and your students’ lives then you’re all set to begin this eye-opening journey!
After reading “English Teaching Overseas”, you can check important issues for ESL teachers on the section PDFs. And visit my channel by YouTube.
After reading “English Teaching Certificate”, you can check important issues for ESL teachers on the section PDFs. You can also visit my channel on YouTube.
“TEFL” is the acronym for Teaching English as a Foreign Language, or simply, English language instruction for non-native speakers. Also known as Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), English Language Teaching (ELT), and teaching ESL (English as a Second Language). The field of TEFL/TESOL represents one of the fastest growing educational fields in the world, and it presents thousands of excellent professional opportunities for teaching English abroad in all corners of the globe to native and fluent English speakers who earn their TEFL/TESOL certification.
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In practical terms, in the field of teaching English abroad, there is little or no difference between “TEFL” and “TESOL.” They are both acronyms that essentially mean the same thing: teaching the English language to non-native speakers. Likewise, in the vast majority of cases, when it comes to ESL teaching certificates & teaching English abroad, a “TEFL certification” and a “TESOL certification” are the same and the terms are interchangeable.
On a more technical level, TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages) is the term applied to the teaching of English to non-native speakers in native English speaking countries, so those who will earn degrees and work domestically in the field in the UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, and South Africa and US will typically use the term “TESOL.”
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TEFL or TESOL Certification and requirements for getting a job teaching English abroad
To Teach English as a Foreign Language in a foreign country (non-native English speaking country), a TEFL Certification is typically required as schools and language institutes want to hire teachers who have received proper training. You don’t need to possess a degree in education, prior teaching experience, or even a college degree to get paid to teach English abroad. Private language schools abroad, online teaching companies and government programs that recruit native English speakers to teach abroad all seek to hire people who have received a certain degree of professional level training.
How does TEFL certification work?
Accredited TEFL certification will provide instruction from a highly qualified instructor covering the skills and tools you will need to work as a professional English teacher. Professional-level TEFL courses must meet certain standards and include live practice teaching.
These standards include:
At least 100 hours of coursework;
At least 6-20 hours of practicum (live practice teaching and observation with actual non-native English speakers and NOT role-playing with fellow TEFL classmates);
An accredited curriculum from a recognized, independent organization within the field;
Instruction provided by a qualified instructor (who has an equivalent to a Master’s Degree in TESOL or a related field);
It is also recommended that you take your TEFL certification course from an organization that provides comprehensive job search guidance.
All International TEFL Academy (ITA) courses are internationally accredited. In addition, International TEFL Academy has enjoyed an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) since 2012.
Since the beginning of 2019, ITA has been named the #1 TEFL school by GoOverseas.com & GoAbroad.com across a range of awards categories for TEFL certification:
Check out a full run-down of ITA’s awards, reviews and recognition in this article.
Is it Possible to Earn a Valid TEFL Certification Online?
With the growing prevalence of online education, one question that frequently arises from those seeking to teach English abroad is: can I actually earn a valid TEFL certification online that employers will recognize when I apply for jobs to teach English overseas?
The answer is “Yes” – as long your online TEFL course is accredited and meets all of the standards outlined above. If you seek a truly professional-level certification that will provide you with the skills, resources and qualifications you need to get a top job, be mindful that many online TEFL courses – especially the cheaper ones – do not meet these standards. Online TEFL classes that do not include a practicum for example, are not recognized by many language schools and TEFL programs around the world.
Will a TEFL Certification Qualify Me to Teach English Online?
Yes it will! In addition to providing a recognized qualification for TEFL jobs overseas, TEFL certification will qualify you to teach English online, a fast growing market that provides opportunities to make money teaching English as a foreign language, whether you are living in the U.S., the U.K., or if you are teaching English abroad in a non-native English speaking country. Many English teachers abroad teach English online part-time as a way to supplement their income as an English teacher at a local school.
Others teach English online full-time, which gives them the chance to move more frequently from country to country while still earning income because they can teach English online from anywhere as long as they have a strong Internet connection. Most teachers are able to make at least $10-$20 (USD) per hour & work schedules are very flexible.
Teach English Online: Your Guide on
How to Make Money & Travel the World.
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Specialty Training Post Class Graduation:
To enhance their online teaching skills and make themselves more marketable for teaching English online, ITA students and alumni have the opportunity to enroll in an optional ESL teaching certificate: ITA’s exclusive 30-Hour Teaching English Online Specialty Course.
John Bentley is Co-Founder & Senior Writer for International TEFL Academy (ITA), the world leader in TEFL certification for teaching English abroad. A graduate of Harvard University and the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern, John is a recognized expert in the field of TEFL. His articles have appeared across the field’s top websites, including GoAbroad.com, StudyAbroad.com, InterExchange, GoOverseas.com, Adventure Teaching, & many others. He has also spoken as an expert on Teaching English Abroad & TEFL certification at major conferences like MeetPlanGo and Lessons from Abroad (LFA) in Portland & San Diego.
Want to Learn More About Teaching English Abroad?
Request a free brochure or call 773-634-9900 to speak with an expert advisor about all aspects of TEFL certification and teaching English abroad or online, including the hiring process, salaries, visas, TEFL class options, job placement assistance and more.
Confused about TEFL (that’s Teaching English as a Foreign Language for you newbies)? That’s not exactly a shocker. We just jumped onto Google and did a quick search for “TEFL” and what did we see? Over 7 million hits…and then some!
If TEFL info overload is currently making your head explode, we don’t blame you. But there’s no need to panic. At Teach Away, we happen to know a thing or two about qualifying for awesome teaching jobs abroad. Not only do we offer online TEFL courses alongside University of Toronto OISE and International House Berkeley, but we’ve spent over 10 years training and placing thousands of teachers across more than 50 countries.
It’s safe to say we’ve picked up some nuggets of TEFL-related wisdom along the way. That’s why, with a little help from hiring experts and real teachers who’ve taught abroad, we’ve created The Ultimate Guide to TEFL Certification.
Is all about the fundamentals of TEFL certification, i.e. what it is, why it matters and what it’s needed for – as well as the different alternatives to TEFL that are out there.
Dives deep into what you can do and where you can teach with your TEFL, in addition to the requirements you’ll need to meet in order to enroll in a TEFL course.
Gives key insight into all the things you need to know about getting your TEFL certificate online – one of the most popular and flexible options available (we may be a little biased, but it’s also our favorite TEFL course option for college graduates AND qualified teachers!). It also gives you a heads up about what life after TEFL is like!
Whew, lots to get through! But don’t worry – you can choose to scroll through the entire guide at your leisure or jump forward to the section that’s most useful for you. If you like what you read, feel free to go ahead and share it with a friend or colleague.
So, let’s get right to it. Where would you like to start?
TEFL is a four-letter acronym, short for Teaching English as a Foreign Language.
You’ve probably seen TEFL pop up a time or two when researching teaching abroad, along with other popular in-person and online ESL certifications like TESL, TESOL and CELTA.
When it comes to researching the different requirements and qualifications for teaching jobs abroad, you might see all of these terms used interchangeably. That’s a big no-no, though.
They’re really quite different from each other.
Let’s get into how and why they’re not one and the same:
A beginner’s guide to TEFL (and other common ESL acronyms)
Before we dive in any further, it’s probably helpful to review some of the common acronyms that are tied to TEFL and teaching English abroad. Here’s what each one stands for:
ESL
English as a Second Language
EFL
English as a Foreign Language
TEFL
Teaching English as a Foreign Language
TEFL Certification
An internationally-recognized qualification to teach English abroad, that can be online or classroom-based
TESL
Teaching English as a Second Language
TESL Certification
TESL is the qualification you need to teach English to foreign-language speakers living in a native-English speaking country.
TESOL
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
TESOL Certification
A TESOL certification is for anyone looking to teach in both non-native and English speaking countries.
CELTA
Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults
ESL and EFL teaching: What’s the difference?
English as a Second Language (ESL) is English taught to non-native speakers who live in an English-speaking country.
Example: A Chinese student studying English in Canada.
English as a Foreign Language (EFL) is English taught to non-native speakers who live in a non-English-speaking country.
Example: A Brazilian student taking business English classes in their home country.
Depending on where in the world you want to teach, one type of ESL certification may be a better fit than another.
TEFL
A TEFL (English as a Foreign Language) certification is the globally accepted qualification to teach English abroad to students (both children and adults) whose first language isn’t English.
A TEFL is what most hiring schools are looking for on a teach abroad application. That’s why you’ll see it crop up time and time again as a requirement on most overseas teaching job posts.
Takeaway:
If your goal is to teach English abroad, TEFL is the most widely accepted (and highly regarded) of the four main ESL certification options.
PS: Don’t forget to check out our TEFL FAQs and articles, which feature tons of advice about TEFL certification and teaching English abroad and numerous firsthand accounts of teaching English in dozens of countries around the world!
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TEFL vs TESL
TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language) certification is primarily geared towards those who are looking to teach English to non-native English speakers living in native English speaking countries.
Let’s break that down a little. Are you from the US, Canada, UK, Ireland, New Zealand, Australia or South Africa? Thinking of pursuing a career teaching English language learners in your home country?
Awesome! In that case, TESL is the most commonly recognized ESL certification you need in order to qualify to teach ESL students domestically.
Takeaway:
If your goal is to teach English in your home country, look no further than TESL.
TEFL vs TESOL
A TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification is what you need if you’re looking to teach English to non-native speakers in your home country as well as abroad.
For anyone who’s unsure whether they want to teach abroad or at home, TESOL might be a great option. However, it’s worth bearing in mind that TESOL is a newer qualification and isn’t as highly regarded by overseas employers as TEFL.
TESOL is also far more intensive and usually offered as a graduate degree program, in contrast to 100 to 150-hour professional certifications like TEFL.
TEFL vs CELTA
CELTA (Certificate in Teach English to Speakers of Other Languages) is an easy one to remember – think of it as the branded version of a generic TESOL course! For all intents and purposes, the two terms are interchangeable – it just means that any CELTA is specifically affiliated with Cambridge University.
Takeaway:
If you’re looking for an advanced degree that gives you the option to teach English both at home and abroad, then a TESOL or CELTA course could be your best bet.
Well for starters, the international job market for teaching English abroad has never been stronger, with new jobs cropping up on a daily basis, from China and Spain to Japan and Costa Rica.
Fueled by the high demand for English language learning around the world, TEFL teaching is one of the fastest growing education industries around the world:
2 billion English language learners by 2020? You know what that means – a whole heap of native speaking English teachers are needed.
Teaching English abroad provides thousands of opportunities for native English speakers from all walks of life and all backgrounds to live, work and travel abroad – anywhere where English isn’t the official first language.
For example, right now, 24 million people are studying English in Mexico. Living the good life in a Mexican beach town while teaching English on the side – sign me up!☝️
Here’s why you need a TEFL if you’ve got a bachelor’s degree:
1
You need it to teach abroad
A TEFL and your bachelor’s degree (any major!) is all you need.
2
You’ll land a teaching job abroad quicker.
ESL and language schools all over the world are looking for English-speaking university graduates with a TEFL.
3
A TEFL gives you the skills to actually teach in the first place.
You’ll learn essential stuff like how to teach English grammar, plan lessons and manage a classroom!
And here’s why getting a TEFL certificate is still worth the investment, even if you’re a certified teacher:
1
You’ll beat out the competition.
Top international schools are looking for certified teachers who are also TEFL qualified.
2
You’ll earn a higher salary.
With your teaching background and TEFL in hand, you’ll qualify for the best paying teaching jobs abroad.
3
You’ll learn must-have skills for teaching English language learners (ELLs).
You’ll learn strategies for tailoring your lessons more effectively for ESL students in your classroom!
I didn’t have the knowledge to properly get my ideas and lessons across to foreign language learners. A TEFL certificate would have helped me learn strategies for teaching normal subjects, like math and social studies to ESL learners.
If you’re a recent or soon-to-be graduate, you’re probably sick of being asked about your plans for the future. Before starting out in their long-term careers, more and more college graduates are looking to spend some time living and traveling abroad after finishing their studies.
Not only does getting TEFL certified and teaching English abroad help fund your travels, it’s also a great way to pay down student debt and avoid having to move back in with your parents after graduation.
Along with the team at OISE University of Toronto TEFL, we produced Beyond Magazine – a publication with everything new college and university graduates need to know about fueling their wanderlust by teaching English abroad!
Faced with teaching job shortages in their home countries, more and more recent teacher graduates and experienced educators are getting the urge to take off and explore the world by teaching English abroad.
If you’re officially over the 9-to-5 grind, you’re in luck. Hiring schools around the world are clambering to hire TEFL-qualified English teachers with life and professional work experience!
Some other lingering TEFL questions you might have:
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