November 30, 2011

It Is Finished

I don't know how, but I just flew past the last third of my TESOL course.  I was anticipating finishing a week or two from now, but I was actually able to finish it before December.  Thank the Lord!  I was especially surprised by how fast I was able to finish my very last assignment, a 500-700 word essay on my topic of choice, in just a little over half an hour.  And so I conclude my celebration (after listening to my "Tequila" jam) by sharing Philip Chung's Why complete a TEFL course (8):


Today, we live in an age where English is the primary language of the world with the highest demand and need for work, media, and relationships.  As a result, millions of people are studying English to keep up with the rest of society.  That is why hundreds of TEFL courses are offered all over the world as numerous schools and institutions seek qualified English teachers everyday.  Although there is some debate regarding the effectiveness and necessity of a TEFL certificate, there are three clear reasons why English instructors should complete a TEFL course.  There are great benefits to one’s grammar skills, teaching abilities, and job qualifications.

One of the best things about taking a TEFL course is the in-depth review and refining of grammar skills.  Ranging from various tenses to active and passive voices, students can look at the fine rules of grammar by examining various structures, conditions, and examples.  Even native speakers who feel very comfortable with these rules may have some trouble with particular areas of grammar.  It does not hurt to review these lessons, especially when these same lessons will be taught to English learners in the future.  Another great thing about studying grammar in the TEFL course is being able to practice the application of these grammar rules in teaching.  TEFL students will be given many opportunities to think of ideas for educational and engaging activities for classes that will focus on foundational rules.  As a result, reviewing grammar will be very beneficial and relevant for all TEFL students along with other areas of teaching.

A TEFL course introduces and improves various teaching methods that will make an effective teacher.  Students will learn how to manage different types of classes, teach students of various levels, age groups, and sizes, make instructive lesson plans, and choose appropriate material for the class.  They will be introduced to different theories and present all kinds of advantages and disadvantages to numerous approaches.  Students will learn how to combine new teaching methods while finding a balance between diverse options.  Ultimately, the different areas that will be covered will help produce teachers who are flexible and able to adapt to unexpected situations as well.  At the same time, these new methods will constantly be put into practice through the assigning of lesson plans and theoretical situations.  Students will be challenged to analyze and understand all of these things through various reading and homework assignments as well.  In addition to sharpening teaching skills, taking a course can also help with work-related areas.

Completing a TEFL course will certainly help with future jobs and pay.  As the need for English teachers is growing all around the world, so is the need for qualified instructors who know what they are doing.  The educational market is growing rapidly in several countries; so many native English speakers are seeking lucrative teaching jobs as well.  However, many of these jobs are now requiring certificates in education, but especially in English education as a foreign language.  Even if some institutions do not necessarily require a TEFL certificate, having one can actually increase the chances of getting hired along with a noticeably higher salary.  When schools or academies see that a teacher has taken this course, it builds credibility and reliability, which will ultimately benefit both parties.  Although the TEFL course has great benefits with learning and teaching, the job and financial benefits should be considered as well.

In conclusion, students who take a TEFL course will have positive experiences with studying, refining, and even job-searching.  There are hundreds of courses to choose from that will bring about better teaching and learning for teachers and students.  Although there are several teachers in many countries that have not taken a TEFL course, having this certificate will bring various advantages and benefits to all who choose to take it.


Now I've gotta start applying for jobs and begin some Christmas shopping.  Hello, December!

Thought of the Day:  내시경
Song of the Day:  Haste the Day-O Come Emmanuel

No comments: