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Asian College of Teachers
TEFL learning and certification is steadily picking up interest globally. More and more people are opting for TEFL certification as successfully completing the course can land you in a foreign locale with a job that pays good remuneration. But there are certain things, facts and may be figures that you need to consider before opting for the course or embarking on a TEFL adventure.
EFL/ESL teaching jobs are filled with the promises of fun and plenty of thrills. I mean, who wouldn't want to take up a job in exotic locations? Though it may sound quite appealing, without proper preparation your foreign dreams could turn into a teaching nightmare even before you know it. Stepping into an unfamiliar arena isn’t easy. To get ready and equipped for your TEFL prospect, consider the following:
Find out/research about the place
It may sound quite apparent but many people leave for their teaching job without proper research or gathering information. Proper research regarding the local culture and tradition is a must. You need to gather as much information as possible before you leave. Try finding out whether it is a rural countryside or a bustling metropolis where you will be teaching in. Religious matters and societal norms vary from one country to another, so it's very important to acquire knowledge regarding any feelings you might come across to ensure you don't cause any offense.
Pay attention to clothes
It is particularly important to pay attention to what you carry in terms of clothing. It’s totally unnecessary to carry all life in a suitcase! It is also of equal concern to pay particular attention to the dress code of your school. You should be prepared with formal clothes and comfortable, practical shoes. You don’t want to ruin your first day impression in the school, so you need to dress accordingly. Especially for those headed to Thailand. Teachers there are held in high respect and so your dress should reflect that.
Make sure you know your work
TEFL jobs do not always involve teaching primary school children. Some job prospects may lead you to offices to teach business English or take adult learning classes. This is in a totally different direction from teaching kids and your teaching strategies will have to be completely different in terms of the ways and the content. Knowing your students will allow you to research on any content that may be useful and you can commence to plan your lessons.
Wages
Be aware of the remuneration packages and benefits. Your salary package will fund your travels and will help you send some money back home. Your pay will obviously depend on where you work and your previous experience but research on if you are receiving a fair wage or not. Research about your school and make sure their teachers are properly paid on time and in full. Letting yourself to be exploited is not even an option. Beware of private language schools which fall outside the concern of educational authorities.
Carry important items
Carry important items such as:
• Documents that includes passport, visa, photocopies of passport, transcripts, certificates, photocopies of all documents etc.
• Carry prescription medication along with you, it is very important that you prepare beforehand and pack accordingly.
• A laptop or tablet is an excellent way to communicate with friends and family back home.
• Carry one month’s salary if possible, or carry enough money.
Prepare for a difference in culture
It is one of the most important things to consider. It may take some time before getting accustomed to the education environment to get in grip with the rest, but the whole process is worth it. You need to remember that you’re there to teach, and not to revamp the system. Just go with the flow and try not to get stressed out over things you can’t control. Focus on your students and teach them to your best ability.
EFL/ESL teaching jobs are filled with the promises of fun and plenty of thrills. I mean, who wouldn't want to take up a job in exotic locations? Though it may sound quite appealing, without proper preparation your foreign dreams could turn into a teaching nightmare even before you know it. Stepping into an unfamiliar arena isn’t easy. To get ready and equipped for your TEFL prospect, consider the following:
Find out/research about the place
It may sound quite apparent but many people leave for their teaching job without proper research or gathering information. Proper research regarding the local culture and tradition is a must. You need to gather as much information as possible before you leave. Try finding out whether it is a rural countryside or a bustling metropolis where you will be teaching in. Religious matters and societal norms vary from one country to another, so it's very important to acquire knowledge regarding any feelings you might come across to ensure you don't cause any offense.
Pay attention to clothes
It is particularly important to pay attention to what you carry in terms of clothing. It’s totally unnecessary to carry all life in a suitcase! It is also of equal concern to pay particular attention to the dress code of your school. You should be prepared with formal clothes and comfortable, practical shoes. You don’t want to ruin your first day impression in the school, so you need to dress accordingly. Especially for those headed to Thailand. Teachers there are held in high respect and so your dress should reflect that.
Make sure you know your work
TEFL jobs do not always involve teaching primary school children. Some job prospects may lead you to offices to teach business English or take adult learning classes. This is in a totally different direction from teaching kids and your teaching strategies will have to be completely different in terms of the ways and the content. Knowing your students will allow you to research on any content that may be useful and you can commence to plan your lessons.
Wages
Be aware of the remuneration packages and benefits. Your salary package will fund your travels and will help you send some money back home. Your pay will obviously depend on where you work and your previous experience but research on if you are receiving a fair wage or not. Research about your school and make sure their teachers are properly paid on time and in full. Letting yourself to be exploited is not even an option. Beware of private language schools which fall outside the concern of educational authorities.
Carry important items
Carry important items such as:
• Documents that includes passport, visa, photocopies of passport, transcripts, certificates, photocopies of all documents etc.
• Carry prescription medication along with you, it is very important that you prepare beforehand and pack accordingly.
• A laptop or tablet is an excellent way to communicate with friends and family back home.
• Carry one month’s salary if possible, or carry enough money.
Prepare for a difference in culture
It is one of the most important things to consider. It may take some time before getting accustomed to the education environment to get in grip with the rest, but the whole process is worth it. You need to remember that you’re there to teach, and not to revamp the system. Just go with the flow and try not to get stressed out over things you can’t control. Focus on your students and teach them to your best ability.
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