Red Flags to Look for When Shopping for a TEFL Course

‍

When choosing to teach English as a foreign language (TEFL), choosing the right course sets the foundation for a successful career. TEFL courses vary widely in quality, accreditation, and content, making it crucial to be discerning in the selection process.

‍

TEFL, short for Teaching English as a Foreign Language, encompasses a range of courses designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to teach English to non-native speakers. These courses cater to a diverse audience, from recent graduates seeking international experience to seasoned educators looking to expand their skill set.

‍

Navigating the plethora of TEFL course providers can be overwhelming. Thorough research is essential to assess the credibility and quality of potential options. Key considerations include accreditation status, course content, duration, and post-course support.

Identifying ‘Red Flags’

‍

When shopping for a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) course, it's crucial to be vigilant and discerning. There are several red flags that you should be aware of to avoid choosing a course that might not meet professional standards or provide the necessary skills for successful English teaching. Here’s a guide to some of the major red flags to look out for:

‍

1. Lack of Accreditation

Accreditation by a recognised educational body is essential. A course without proper accreditation may not be recognised by employers worldwide, which could limit your job opportunities. Always verify the accreditation status of the course and ensure it is endorsed by a reputable accrediting organisation.

‍

2. Unrealistic Promises

Be wary of courses that promise guaranteed job placements or exceptionally high salaries upon completion without any conditions. The TEFL industry varies significantly between countries and employers, and no reputable course provider can make absolute guarantees about employment or income.

‍

3. Insufficient Course Duration

The industry standard for TEFL courses is at least 100 to 120 contact hours of training. Courses offering significantly fewer hours may not provide sufficient preparation for teaching roles. Moreover, most reputable employers require a qualification with at least 120 hours of TEFL training. Equally, if a course claims to be several hundred hours long, it is worth asking what constitutes those hours and how much is tutor-led. 

‍

4. Lack of Practical Teaching Components

Practical teaching experience is a critical component of any TEFL course. If a course only offers theoretical knowledge without any real teaching practice, especially with actual English learners, it might not adequately prepare you for the realities of the classroom.

‍

5. Overly Low Costs

While it might be tempting to choose the least expensive option available, extremely low-priced courses often reflect poor quality and lack of depth in the training provided. Investing in a more costly but comprehensive course can lead to better training and more lucrative job opportunities.

‍

6. Vague Course Content

A reputable TEFL course should have a clear and detailed syllabus available before you enrol. If the course content is vague or the provider is unwilling to share detailed information upfront, it could indicate a lack of organization or transparency.

‍

7. Poor Reviews or Lack of Testimonials

Do your research and read reviews from previous participants. A lack of positive feedback or testimonials can be a significant warning sign. Also, consider how the course provider responds to criticism. Defensive or aggressive responses to negative reviews can indicate poor customer service.

‍

8. No Post-Course Support

Good TEFL courses often provide ongoing support after completion, including assistance with job searches, professional advice, and resources for further education. A lack of post-course support suggests that the provider may not be invested in your success as a teacher.

‍

9. Rapid Course Completion Offers

Be cautious of courses that promise very quick completion times. Learning to teach effectively takes time, and compressed courses might not offer the depth required for comprehensive training.

Reputable TEFL Courses

Reputable TEFL courses share common characteristics such as transparent accreditation, up-to-date materials, experienced instructors, and positive student feedback. Examples of respected course providers include reputable universities, established language institutes, and internationally recognised organizations.

‍

At Teaching House, we embody the characteristics of a reputable TEFL course provider, holding accreditation from highly respected institutions like Cambridge English, BAC, ACCET, etc.. Our courses are continuously updated to reflect the latest teaching methodologies and best practices in language education.

‍

Overall, Selecting the right TEFL course is a critical step towards a rewarding career in teaching English abroad. By being vigilant for red flags and prioritizing course quality, aspiring TEFL educators can embark on their journey with confidence and competence.

‍