Qualification to teach English Abroad
The profound changes that have affected the world of work in recent years have pushed employees in every sector to reflect on the professional situation they are in. In many cases, this has led them to reevaluate their priorities, favoring freedom, flexibility, and personal satisfaction over-familiarity, routine, and financial stability.
This unprecedented phenomenon has seen thousands of workers worldwide quit their stable jobs to venture out into the unknown world of self-employment, try out new career paths, and retrain to learn new skills and develop existing ones. All this while pursuing a more balanced work-life lifestyle as well as following dreams that had been put aside as life had gotten in the way.
It turns out that one of the most common dreams is related to traveling abroad, whether it be temporarily, like for a gap year, or as a permanent move. Although there are many viable travel-related jobs out there, Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is probably one of the most fulfilling ones. It allows you to travel abroad and be fully immersed in the new culture while making an impact on the lives of your students.
In the past, any native speaker of English, regardless of their level of education and teaching aptitude, was able to travel to a foreign country and land a job as a teacher of English. In the last twenty years, things have changed dramatically: most countries and institutions have developed stricter criteria when hiring international teaching staff, focusing more on qualifications and skills than on nationality.
So, if you are thinking about retraining to become a teacher of English online or abroad, here are a few tips that will guide you in the process.
Teaching English Online
In recent years, many people have been forced to rely on distant learning and remote working. A combination of technological advancements and global events has allowed the TEFL industry to thrive.
Specifically, teaching online gives 24/7 flexibility to choose when, where, and how many hours to work each week/month and complete freedom to fit your teaching schedule around your personal commitment. In short, teaching English online gives you back full control of your own life and the opportunity to build international relations through a computer screen.
Are you the right person to teach English online?
The minimum age to become a TEFL teacher is 18, but there is no maximum age limit. There are countless individuals of any age who teach English worldwide, either as a full-time job or as a side hustle.
A university degree is often preferred to find a job as an online teacher, but it can be a requirement, depending on who you work for.
What you really need to teach English online is:
proficiency in the English language. Whether it is your first or additional language, you should be able to communicate in English confidently and accurately.
an accredited 120-hour TEFL qualification. This is basic training for those who are new to TEFL teaching. During the course, you will deepen your understanding of the English language, including vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. You will also help you understand your student's needs and objectives. You will learn how to build and deliver a cohesive lesson and create engaging teaching materials. By the end of the course, you will be able to start your first lesson with confidence.
a laptop or a PC. As you will be teaching online, a laptop/PC is a must. You don’t need to spend a lot of money on it, but choose one that has considerable memory storage and a good quality in-built camera.
additional tech. A good quality headset is ideal to block out external noise, especially if you teach from different locations. A pen drive can be a life-saver should you need to use somebody else's computer. Use it to store your most popular lessons as an emergency plan.
suitable setting. Wherever you are staying, find a corner suitable for your lessons. Ideally, it should be a quiet and well-lit space. Don’t worry if natural light isn’t accessible: invest in a bright lamp strategically positioned.
Clearly, teaching online requires minimal investment to start, but it offers you the opportunity of a flexible career, from the comfort of your own home or while traveling the world.
Teaching English Abroad
Without a doubt, online teaching offers flexibility and independence, but teaching abroad in a brick-and-mortar institution will give you the excitement of living a new life in an unfamiliar country to explore different cultures and traditions to experience.
If you are ready for a complete change of scenery and are itching to turn a new leaf, teaching English in a foreign country could be the right option for you. However, moving abroad is a massive step to take. A change in environment, food, and routine can affect your body in different ways. Remember to look after yourself and take time out from work and adventures whenever you need.
Choosing your destination is a crucial step toward your TEFL career and you need to be clear about what you want to get out of the country you move to. Are you interested in history? Think about Italy, China, or Turkey. Are you looking to earn a lot of money in a short time? Consider Kuwait, Oman, South Korea, or Japan. Here’s a guide to teaching jobs in Japan that you might find useful to start off with.
Are you the right person to teach English abroad?
As for online teaching, a 120-hour TEFL qualification is necessary. Not only will it provide you with the skills necessary for the job, but it will also show your potential clients and/or employers that you are conscientious and professional.
A university degree is not always necessary; however, in some countries it is a visa requirement.
When it comes to being hired and living a happy life abroad, your personal attitude is everything.
Are you:
culturally sensitive? While teaching abroad, you will be exposed to traditions and customs that are different from yours. Showing respect for your students’ culture is fundamental to building a stable rapport and fostering a welcoming classroom environment.
open-minded? In an unfamiliar culture, some traditions and customs might be difficult to understand or accept. Learning about the origin of every tradition and its meaning might help you make sense of it all.
a life-long learner? Being a teacher means that you never stop learning. Learn about your students, their country, and their culture. Learn about teaching and the English language by investing in your professional development with training courses and joining communities of like-minded people.
able to adapt easily? Not only every country but also every institution is different. You might work where teaching resources are scarce and technology is not always available. Be creative and make the most of what you have got.
Online or abroad?
The idea of starting a new life and a new career is very exciting. There can be challenges ahead, so preparation is key to success in teaching English as a foreign language. You will embark on a journey of discovery about the world and people around you and you will feel fulfilled and rewarded for the impact you have made in everyone’s life. All that is left for you to do is choose: teaching online or abroad?
Sources:
https://hwb.gov.wales/api/storage/c9ad8c7e-1ec8-4898-95c8-e12081e2497b/Section2-WhyPeopleTravel.pdf
