Course TESOL Organisations

Teacher Career DevelopmentWhile many people teach english as a way to see the world before moving into the next phase of life, a tefl job can lead into a long-lasting career, provided that the teacher builds off of each teaching experience, seeks further education, and develops a plan that keeps long-term goals in mind. The first step towards a TEFL career is to take a teaching job anywhere in the world, with or without knowing the native language, having prior experience, or even having a job lined up before arriving in the country. Most TEFL teachers start out not knowing the native language or having prior classroom experience (Independent); these are not necessary because the teaching is done in english, and many places are so eager to have native english speakers that they are willing to hire inexperienced teachers. Because there is no standardized system for TEFL qualification (Independent), it is possible to find jobs without certification; however, most good schools require certification of some kind or three years experience (Jensen). While it might be a bit scary, it is possible to find good jobs by showing up in the target country and job hunting locally (Hallwood). However, it is always important to obtain a proper visa--working on a tourist visa is illegal and may lead to deportation (Hallwood). After the first job, teachers should build off each new job experience to develop their abilities and to move into more reputable schools and institutes. In particular, it is important to teach a variety of age and proficiency levels, so as not to get into a rut (Hinojosa). Doing this allows teachers to explore new techniques and methods, and to find and develop their own system that works best for them. By doing this, teachers can develop an impressive resume and find more reputable teaching jobs; however, it is always important to get letters of reference from every teaching job, including volunteer positions. These should be written on school letterhead with the employer’s stamp, detailing the teacher’s job title, levels taught, and responsibilities given. Also, the teacher should request at least two copies (Hinojosa). For any career TEFL teacher, workshops, qualifications, and further education including diplomas and graduate degrees are key both to professional development and career advancement. This necessarily requires “a philosophical shift” from taking a TEFL job merely as a means to see the world; professional teachers “should embrace this concept and welcome the exchange of advice and ideas this involves.” (Mitchell) Continuing development through teacher education is key to any TEFL career because new teaching methods are constantly being developed (Jensen). This often takes the form of workshops and seminars, but at some point in their career most professional TEFL teachers pursue a graduate degree or a diploma. Masters degree programs tend to be more theory based, whereas diplomas tend to be more practical and classroom based (Mitchell). However, this usually involves taking time off; some employers interpret teachers’ desires to further their education while on the job as a threat (Mitchell). As with any career, it is important to develop and pursue long-term plans, many of which may not involve direct teaching. Most TEFL careers move from classroom teaching to school management or working at a publication developing english teaching material (Independent). Applying for positions of responsibility such as management and publication helps teachers advance to higher positions in the long term (Mitchell). Finally, it may be beneficial to take time off to pursue a career in an unrelated field; many teachers who choose to return to teaching english find that the experience gives them a beneficial perspective and a greater sense of direction as they look to their long-term goals (Mitchell). Sources: Hinojosa, Sharon de (naturegirl321). "Making a Career out of TEFLing." TEFL Tips, http://tefltips.blogspot.com/2008/01/making-career-out-of-tefling.html (accessed 24 September 2011). Independent, The. "Unravelling the myths of TEFL." The Independent, http://www.independent.co.uk/student/career-planning/vocational-study/unravelling-the-myths-of-tefl-1774278.html (accessed 24 September 2011). Mitchell, Paul. "Where to go at TEFL's Crossroads." The Guardian, http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2002/feb/21/tefl3 (accessed 24 September 2011). Hallwood, Joe. "A guide to choosing the right destination for first-time EFL teachers." The Guardian, http://careers.guardian.co.uk/careers-blog/a-guide-to-choosing-the-right-destination-for-first-time-efl-teachers?intcmp=239 (accessed 24 September 2011). Jensen, Courtney. "TEFL Teacher Career Development." TITC http://www.teflcorp.com/articles/49-tefl-teacher-career-development/156-teacher-career-development.htm (accessed 24 September 2011).