The Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) industry is one that is growing rapidly. With the rise of the internet, there are now more opportunities than ever to get TEFL certified online. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to know which courses are reputable and which ones will actually be recognised by employers. In this blog post, we will explore the world of online TEFL courses and whether or not employers actually recognise them. We will also provide some tips on how to choose a course that will give you the best chance at getting hired.
What is a TEFL Course?
A TEFL course is a training course that helps people prepare for a career teaching English as a foreign language. The courses typically include both classroom instruction and hands-on experience, and they can be either online or in-person. Many employers recognize online TEFL courses as being just as valid as in-person courses.
The Different Types of Online TEFL Courses
There are a few different types of online TEFL courses out there. Some are accredited by the government and some are not. There are also some that are shorter in length than others. Here is a brief overview of the different types of online TEFL courses:
Government-accredited online TEFL courses: These are the most reputable types of online TEFL courses. They are typically longer in length and offer more comprehensive training than non-accredited courses. Employers will generally recognise these types of course as being more credible.
Non-government accredited online TEFL courses: These courses can still be good quality, but they may not be recognised by all employers. They may be shorter in length than government-accredited courses, but they can still provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to teach English effectively.
Shorter online TEFL courses: These tend to be less comprehensive than longer courses, but they can still be a good option if you want to get started teaching English quickly. They may not be recognised by all employers, but they can still give you the basics of what you need to know.
Pros and Cons of Online TEFL Courses
When it comes to online TEFL courses, there are pros and cons that you should be aware of before making a decision. On the one hand, online courses are generally more affordable than traditional in-person courses. They also offer greater flexibility in terms of scheduling and location. On the other hand, online courses may not be as comprehensive as traditional courses, and some employers may not recognize them as being equivalent to traditional certification.
So, what are the pros and cons of online TEFL courses? Let’s take a closer look:
PROS
- More affordable than traditional courses
- Greater flexibility in terms of scheduling and location
- Can be completed at your own pace
CONS
- May not be as comprehensive as traditional courses
- Some employers may not recognize them as being equivalent to traditional certification
What Do Employers Think of Online TEFL Courses?
In recent years, there has been a growing trend of employers hiring English teachers who have completed an online TEFL course. While there are some employers who are hesitant to hire online TEFL graduates, the vast majority of employers view online TEFL courses as being just as valid as classroom-based courses.
One of the main advantages of online TEFL courses is that they are much more flexible and convenient than traditional courses. This means that people with full-time jobs or other commitments can still complete an online course in their own time.
Another advantage of online TEFL courses is that they often provide a more comprehensive education than classroom-based courses. This is because online courses typically include a wider range of topics and materials, allowing students to gain a deeper understanding of the English language.
Overall, employers are generally positive about online TEFL courses and recognise them as being a valid way to qualify as an English teacher.
Alternatives to Online TEFL Courses
There are a number of ways to qualify as a TEFL teacher, and online courses are just one option. Many employers recognise online TEFL courses, but there are also a number of alternatives that may be more suitable for you.
One alternative to accredited TEFL courses online is face-to-face courses. These can be found at many language schools around the world, and they offer a more immersive experience that can help you to better understand the material.
Another alternative is to complete a degree in teaching English as a foreign language. This option is ideal if you want to pursue a career in teaching, as it will give you the necessary qualifications.
Finally, another option is to volunteer as an English teacher. This is a great way to gain experience while also helping others. There are many organisations that offer volunteer opportunities, so be sure to do your research before choosing one.
Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as every employer is different. However, from our research and experience, we can say that many employers do recognize online TEFL courses. In fact, some employers even prefer hiring candidates who have completed an online course, as it shows that the candidate is self-motivated and disciplined. If you’re considering an online TEFL course, make sure to do your research and find a reputable provider. With the right course under your belt, you’ll be well on your way to landing your dream teaching job.
