I Taught English A Long Time Ago

If you haven't taught in a while, it's normal to feel a bit rusty, but there are ways to refresh your teaching skills and get back into the groove: Consider taking a refresher course: Many TEFL/TESOL providers offer refresher courses specifically designed for teachers who have been out of the classroom for some time. These courses can help you update your knowledge of teaching methodologies and strategies. Engage in professional development: Attend workshops, webinars, or conferences to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and practices in English language teaching. This can also help you network with other professionals in the field. Volunteer or do some practice teaching: Offer to volunteer at a local school or language center to gain hands-on experience and build your confidence. You...  [Read more]

  In this video Linda breaks down the difference between "in time" and "on time". Due to the fact that both expressions revolve around time, they can be quite difficult to distinguish. However, this video provides helpful examples and explanations that will help EFL teachers and students alike to grasp the difference. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. This unit was actually fun because it was different, therefore interesting. I like the idea of...  [Read more]

  When considering Teacher Talk Time, we can perhaps look at the major advantage and disadvantage of the teacher actually talking. The major advantage is that you as the teacher are usually the only real model for the language, the source of correct English. So at some stages, your talking time is very important to the students. So when you?re modeling language, that use of Teacher Talk Time can be very advantageous. There are major disadvantages to overusing Teacher Talk Time, however, and perhaps the major one is that whenever the teacher is talking, the students are listening and if the students are listening, then they themselves cannot be talking. So, Teacher Talk Time reduces the opportunity for Student Talk Time. So, we should try to minimize the use of Teacher Talk Time...  [Read more]

Yes, there is typically a maximum time limit for completing a TEFL course, but it varies depending on the course provider. Here are some common guidelines regarding time limits for TEFL courses: If you don't finish your TEFL course within the time limit, several consequences may occur: Yes, there are options available to extend the time limit for a TEFL course. Some TEFL course providers offer flexible study periods to accommodate learners' different needs and schedules. Here are some common options for extending the time limit for a TEFL course: Yes, you may be able to request an extension on your TEFL course completion deadline, depending on the policies of the institution or provider offering the course. Extensions are typically granted under certain circumstances and usually involve...  [Read more]

Time management is crucial for TEFL teachers to ensure the smooth running of classes, effective lesson planning, and personal well-being. As a TEFL teacher, you juggle various responsibilities such as preparing lesson plans, grading assignments, providing feedback, and engaging with students. Effective time management allows you to allocate sufficient time to each task, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and prevent burnout. By managing your time efficiently, you can maximize productivity, enhance the quality of your teaching, and create a positive learning environment for your students. 1. Prioritize Tasks: Identify urgent and important tasks that require immediate attention. Create a to-do list and prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance. This will help you focus on...  [Read more]

The economy in the United States and around the globe is facing a massive crisis due to the coronavirus outbreak. We are all fearful of our health, our jobs, our families, and our futures. It's scary stuff. We believe that while times are tough and uncertain, those who prepare themselves now will best weather the storm and will be best prepared to hit the ground running once the world returns to some sense of normalcy. Demand for English teachers online remains strong and will continue to remain strong. This is a viable way for you to earn money if the coronavirus and lockdowns continue in the U.S. and Europe. Education is largely recession-proof - schools will continue, and people will invest in their education to improve their job prospects. This is especially true for English...  [Read more]

Within the world of English language teaching there are many acronyms used to describe what type of teaching is involved in any particular scenario. EFL is one of the more common ones you will come across and it stands for English as a Foreign Language. You will find EFL is most commonly used when describing the teaching or learning of English in a non-English speaking country, such as Spain, Japan, or Mexico. It is very common for either of these acronyms to be used when talking about any situation where a student is learning English, however, there is a technical difference between the two. As previously mentioned, EFL is when the student is learning English in a non-English speaking environment, for example, a Japanese student learning English in Tokyo. In this scenario there is often...  [Read more]

Teaching English abroad can be a fulfilling and viable long-term career option for many individuals. The demand for English language teachers continues to grow globally, providing a wide range of opportunities for those looking to make a career out of teaching English as a foreign language. One of the main benefits of pursuing a long-term career in TEFL is the opportunity to immerse yourself in new cultures and gain a deeper understanding of the world. Teaching English abroad allows you to interact with local communities, learn new languages, and develop cross-cultural communication skills that are highly valued in today's globalized world. Moreover, teaching English abroad can offer a competitive salary and benefits package, especially in countries where there is a high demand for...  [Read more]

1. Advantages of Teaching English Part-Time or Freelance with a TEFL Certificate 2. Challenges of Teaching English Part-Time or Freelance with a TEFL Certificate 3. How to Find Part-Time or Freelance Teaching Opportunities with a TEFL Certificate Teaching English part-time or freelance with a TEFL certificate can be a rewarding experience for many reasons. Firstly, it offers flexibility in terms of working hours and locations, allowing you to balance other commitments such as studies or another job. Additionally, teaching part-time or freelance can provide a source of additional income without the commitment of a full-time job. This flexibility also allows you to tailor your teaching schedule to suit your lifestyle and personal preferences. Furthermore, teaching English in this capacity...  [Read more]

Yes, it is possible to make a long-term career out of teaching English as a foreign language. Teaching English as a foreign language can indeed provide a fulfilling and sustainable long-term career path. Here are some key points to consider: Prospects for advancement in a long-term career as an English as a foreign language teacher: Advancing in a long-term career as an English as a foreign language (EFL) teacher can lead to various opportunities for professional growth and development. Here are some key prospects for advancement in this field: To establish job stability in a career teaching English as a foreign language, consider the following strategies: Opportunities for professional growth in a long-term career as an English as a foreign language teacher include:  [Read more]

  There is no simple answer to this question as it depends entirely on which type of TEFL course you choose to study. At ITTT we have a range of courses that are designed to suit the various needs of our trainees, each with its own time scale for completion. Please see below for a breakdown of our various course options. Online courses are often the quickest route towards TEFL certification. If you are in a real hurry a course such as our 60-hour introduction to TEFL may be a good choice as you can conceivably complete it in as little as five days. Even those who prefer to study at a slower rate should find they can complete the course within one month. However, it is worth remembering that the majority of employers worldwide insist on job applicants having a TEFL certificate of...  [Read more]

Securing a TEFL teaching job in a desired market can vary in time depending on several factors. Generally, the process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. It's important to consider aspects such as your qualifications, experience, desired location, and the time of year you are applying. Firstly, having the necessary qualifications is key to securing a TEFL teaching job. Most schools and language institutions require a TEFL certification, which can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to complete, depending on the program you choose. Additionally, having a bachelor's degree is often a requirement for teaching English abroad, so if you don't already have one, you may need to factor in the time it takes to complete your degree. Next, your level of experience can also...  [Read more]

To secure a TEFL teaching job in a desired location, the timeline can vary depending on several factors. Factors that can influence the time it takes to secure a TEFL teaching job include your qualifications, experience, the demand for English teachers in the desired location, and the time of year you are applying. First and foremost, having a TEFL certification is essential for securing a teaching job in most countries. If you already have a TEFL certification, then the next step is to start looking for job opportunities in your desired location. Research the demand for English teachers in that specific location as well as any requirements for foreign teachers. If you do not have a TEFL certification yet, you will need to factor in the time it takes to complete the certification course....  [Read more]

Finding a TEFL teaching job in a competitive market can vary in terms of the time it takes, depending on several factors. These factors include your qualifications, experience, location preferences, and the current demand for English teachers in the specific market you are targeting. When looking for a TEFL teaching job in a competitive market, it is essential to have a well-rounded TEFL certification from a reputable institution. Employers in competitive markets often look for candidates with at least a 120-hour TEFL certificate, which includes a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical teaching experience. Additionally, having a bachelor's degree in any field can also make you a more competitive candidate. Experience plays a crucial role in the time it takes to secure a TEFL...  [Read more]

Finding a TEFL teaching job in a preferred country can vary greatly depending on several factors. These factors include the demand for English teachers in that specific country, your qualifications and experience, the time of year you are applying, and your flexibility in terms of location and job preferences. In countries where there is a high demand for English teachers, such as China, South Korea, and some Middle Eastern countries, you may be able to secure a job relatively quickly, sometimes within a few weeks or even days of applying. On the other hand, in countries with a lower demand for English teachers or stricter visa requirements, such as Japan or certain European countries, the job search process may take longer. Your qualifications and experience also play a significant role...  [Read more]

Finding a TEFL teaching job in a specific region can vary in time depending on several factors such as the demand for English teachers, your qualifications, experience, and the time of year you are searching. It is essential to be prepared for the job search process and understand what to expect when looking for TEFL opportunities in a specific region. When starting your job search, it is crucial to have a well-prepared resume, cover letter, and teaching portfolio that highlight your qualifications and experience. Additionally, researching the region you are interested in teaching in can help you understand the demand for English teachers, the types of schools or institutions that hire TEFL teachers, and any specific requirements they may have. The time it takes to find a TEFL teaching job...  [Read more]

Securing a TEFL teaching job in a competitive field can vary in terms of the time it takes, depending on several factors. One of the main factors that can influence the length of time it takes to secure a TEFL teaching job is the level of demand for English teachers in the specific location you are targeting. In some countries, there may be a high demand for English teachers, which can lead to quicker job placement, while in other countries with a saturated job market, it may take longer to secure a position. Another factor that can impact the time it takes to secure a TEFL teaching job is your qualifications and experience. If you have a TEFL certification, a bachelor's degree, and some teaching experience, you may be more competitive in the job market and able to secure a position more...  [Read more]

This is one of the most frequently asked questions we receive from trainees before, during and after every TEFL certification course, it is also one of the hardest to answer. There are many factors that influence how long it takes to secure an English language teaching job, but the good news is that the vast majority of our graduates do land a teaching position after successfully completing their course. One of the biggest factors is where you choose to work, as the demand for teachers varies greatly from region to region and country to country. China has such a huge demand that there are often not enough candidates to fill the available positions. This is particularly good news for newly qualified teachers as you will have little trouble securing a job at any time of the year. Other...  [Read more]

Although this is a common question, it is hard to answer as it depends on which course you choose to take. There are a wide variety of TEFL courses available, both online and in-class, and some that are a mixture of the two, and every one has its own average completion time. At ITTT we have developed a range of TEFL course options of varying length, difficulty, and study method to ensure there is something to suit every individual situation. TEFL courses are typically classified by the average number of hours they take to complete and if you look online you will find some courses advertised at around 50 hours or even less. If you have no other commitments and are able to study every day, it would be possible to finish this type of course in less than a week. However, it is worth noting...  [Read more]

Completing a TEFL course can vary in duration based on the type of course you choose. Typically, a standard TEFL course can be completed in 4-6 weeks if taken full-time. However, there are also part-time options available that can take anywhere from 3-12 months to complete, depending on the number of hours you dedicate to studying each week. For those with limited time availability, there are accelerated TEFL courses that can be completed in as little as 2 weeks. These intensive programs require a significant time commitment each day but offer the advantage of obtaining certification quickly. On the other hand, some individuals may opt for online TEFL courses, which provide more flexibility in terms of schedule. These courses can be self-paced, allowing students to complete the program in...  [Read more]

Securing a TEFL teaching job in a high-demand region can vary depending on several factors such as your qualifications, experience, the time of year, and the specific location you are targeting. Generally, the process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. First and foremost, having the right qualifications is crucial. Most high-demand regions require a TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA certification. If you already have one of these certifications, you are already a step ahead in the job search process. If not, obtaining one can take anywhere from a few weeks for an online course to a few months for an in-person intensive course. Experience also plays a significant role in how quickly you can secure a TEFL teaching job. If you have previous teaching experience, especially in ESL or EFL...  [Read more]

--- Time management is crucial for TEFL teachers to ensure productive lessons, effective planning, and a healthy work-life balance. As a TEFL teacher, you have to juggle various responsibilities such as lesson planning, teaching classes, grading assignments, providing feedback, and professional development. Effective time management allows you to allocate the right amount of time to each task, prioritize essential activities, and avoid burnout. By managing your time effectively, you can enhance the quality of your teaching, engage students more efficiently, and maintain your well-being in a demanding profession. To manage your time effectively as a TEFL teacher, consider implementing the following strategies: 2. Create a daily or weekly schedule to allocate time for lesson planning,...  [Read more]

Opportunities for long-term TEFL career growth include: A long-term TEFL career can positively impact job stability in several ways:  [Read more]

Becoming a certified TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) educator can vary in terms of time depending on the program you choose. Generally, most TEFL certification courses require a commitment of around 120 hours of study. This can be completed full-time in as little as four weeks or part-time over a few months. Some intensive programs offer accelerated options that can be completed in as little as two weeks, but these require a significant time commitment each day. On the other hand, part-time courses may take longer to finish depending on how many hours per week you dedicate to your studies. Additionally, some programs may have specific requirements or prerequisites that could impact the time it takes to become certified. For example, if you need to complete observed teaching...  [Read more]

Becoming a certified TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) teacher typically requires completing a TEFL certification course. The length of time it takes to become a certified TEFL teacher can vary depending on the type of course you choose. Most standard TEFL courses are around 120 hours in length and can be completed in 4-6 weeks if taken full-time. However, there are also intensive courses that can be completed in 2-4 weeks, as well as part-time courses that may take 10-12 weeks to finish. The duration of the course is just one aspect to consider when becoming a certified TEFL teacher. It's important to note that some courses may have additional requirements, such as observed teaching practice hours or assignments, which can also impact the overall time it takes to become...  [Read more]

Securing a TEFL teaching position can vary in terms of time depending on several factors such as your qualifications, experience, the location you are targeting, and the demand for English teachers in that specific area. First and foremost, having a TEFL certification is essential to be considered for most teaching positions. If you already have a TEFL certification, the process of securing a teaching position can be quicker compared to someone who still needs to complete the certification. Additionally, having a bachelor's degree is often a requirement for teaching English abroad, especially in countries where the demand for English teachers is high. If you already possess a bachelor's degree, you may have an advantage in the job market. Experience also plays a significant role in how...  [Read more]

Becoming a successful TEFL teacher is a journey that varies in length depending on several factors. Here is a breakdown of the steps involved and the estimated time it may take to achieve success in this field. First and foremost, obtaining a TEFL certification is a crucial step towards becoming a successful TEFL teacher. This can typically be done through completing a TEFL course, which can range from 120 hours to 250 hours in length. The time it takes to complete a TEFL course can vary depending on whether you choose to study full-time or part-time. Full-time intensive courses can be completed in as little as 4 weeks, while part-time courses may take anywhere from 3 to 6 months to finish. After obtaining a TEFL certification, gaining practical teaching experience is key to becoming a...  [Read more]

Becoming a proficient TEFL educator is a rewarding journey that requires dedication, time, and effort. The timeline to achieve proficiency can vary depending on several factors such as prior teaching experience, the level of education, and the amount of time dedicated to studying and practicing TEFL methodologies. For individuals with a background in education or language teaching, the process of becoming proficient in TEFL may be quicker due to their existing knowledge and skills. On the other hand, those who are new to teaching may require more time to grasp the essential concepts and techniques. Typically, a TEFL certification course can range from 120 to 150 hours of study. These courses cover a wide range of topics such as lesson planning, classroom management, language skills...  [Read more]

Becoming a skilled TEFL instructor is a rewarding journey that requires time, dedication, and commitment. The length of time it takes to become a skilled TEFL instructor can vary depending on several factors, including prior teaching experience, the type of TEFL certification pursued, and the individual's learning pace. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few months to a year to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in this field. One of the first steps to becoming a skilled TEFL instructor is obtaining a TEFL certification. There are various types of TEFL certifications available, ranging from basic online courses to more comprehensive in-person programs. The length of the certification program can range from as little as 40 hours to over 120 hours of training. Generally,...  [Read more]

Teaching English online full-time can be a rewarding and flexible career choice. One of the main advantages is the ability to work from anywhere in the world, as long as you have a stable internet connection. This flexibility allows you to create your own schedule and work around other commitments. Additionally, teaching English online full-time often offers a steady income and the potential to work with students from diverse cultural backgrounds, providing a truly enriching experience. To teach English online full-time, you typically need a bachelor's degree in any field, as well as a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification. Some online teaching platforms may also require previous teaching experience or a...  [Read more]