Which is better; TEFL or TESOL?

If you’re like most people scouring the internet wondering whether to teach English as a foreign or second language, you’re probably wondering what the big differences are between the qualifications. The two that pop up the most will definitely be TESOL (Teaching English to speakers of other languages) and TEFL (Teaching English as a foreign language). Now, you’re wondering “Okay, but what’s the difference?” and although the two may seem interchangeable there are a couple of major differences to keep in mind. So on that note, here are some things to consider when starting your English teaching journey and choosing your course.

Who is a TEFL/TESOL for?

A TESOL or TEFL is for anybody who wants to teach English as a second or foreign language either online or abroad. You’ll need one of these qualifications in order to do both of these things and most schools won’t accept you teaching students without one of them, no matter where you are. However, if you want to teach domestically in Australia, TEFL is not a recognized qualification and therefore you will need to obtain a TESOL. This will prepare and allow you to teach in classrooms all across Australia as well as being able to teach online and abroad.

What do the courses focus on?

Both courses have similar content, however there are some key differences. A TEFL course may give you some ideas and information on how to control a class and entertain students, and give less detail about the ins and outs of the English language. Whereas, because a TESOL can be used for teaching students who are learning English outside of their home country, it focuses much more on explaining the language and how it is used and why. You could look at a TEFL as a TESOL lite, you’ll get a more basic package which is easier to digest but has less benefits in the long run. A course with TESOL Australia however does come with access to pre-made PowerPoints for all levels of English, from Kindergarten to Business English. With these plans you’ll never be stuck for games or activities while teaching online, and the content is updated monthly so you’ll always have new lesson plans.

Where will I be able to find a job with these courses?

The greatest thing about both of these qualifications is that you can use them to teach almost everywhere. As previously mentioned, if you want to teach in Australia you will NEED a TESOL, however both courses will allow you to teach online and abroad all over Asia, Europe and South America.

What kind of jobs can I get with these qualifications?

The possibilities often seem endless once you enter the EFL industry. With these initial qualifications you will be able to find jobs all over the world and online as teachers, teaching assistants, ALT’s, tutors, childcare assistants and au pairs. Starting your teaching career can often lead to managerial promotions at work depending on your experience and length of time with your company, you could become a teacher trainer or an IELTS instructor. Depending on your location, you can get paid anywhere from $600 to $3000 a month, so to say that getting qualified is worthwhile is an understatement. Those who gain a qualification and become a teacher often find success in other walks of life later on with the skills and experience that they gained using their qualification.

What do the courses consist of?

As mentioned earlier, the content can be pretty similar but with the exception of TESOL qualifications being accepted in Australia for teaching work. However, in most cases for both courses there will be no practical assessment or observation before you begin teaching. You’ll simply get your qualification and be sent out into the world. But with TESOL Australia this isn’t the case. The courses held by TESOL Australia offer a real, observed and assessed practicum with REAL ESL students. This is vital in giving you the confidence to teach in front of students before your first day in your new job. The practical assessment included will also ensure employers that you’re capable of being in front of a room full of students and will put you miles ahead of other hopeful job seekers trying to also make their way into the ESL industry. The practical assessment gives you a real chance to boost your confidence and quell your nerves before you start your teaching adventure and is a vital part of the TESOL Australia course. You’ll get helpful and constructive feedback which will allow you to reflect and perfect your teaching style before you start working, also the course includes real teaching videos which will offer you a glimpse into the ESL teaching life and give you some ideas for your own classes.

The important bits…

So, the things to consider are: While TEFL and TESOL are often seen as interchangeable by the ESL community worldwide, they most certainly are not. If you’re wanting to teach domestically in Australia then a TESOL is required, and even if you’re considering going abroad it’s better to have the ability to return home and work regardless. Also for first time teachers, or anyone wanting to understand how it feels to be in front of a class of non-native speakers, it’s best to consider the practical assessments offered by TESOL Australia as vital practice before you launch into this new world.

So check out our latest deals now and remember that going through TESOL Australia you’ll receive your qualification and ongoing support and materials to aid your future teaching career. Take the first step towards your new career today and start your ESL journey with TESOL Australia.