Teaching English as a foreign language: Difference between revisions
→Pay and conditions worldwide: not just Spain/uncited |
|||
Line 53: | Line 53: | ||
As in most fields, the pay depends greatly on education, training, experience, seniority, and expertise. As with much [[expatriate]] work, employment conditions vary among countries, depending on the level of [[economic development]] and how much people want to live there. In relatively poor countries, even a low wage may equate to a comfortable [[middle class]] [[lifestyle (sociology)|lifestyle]].<ref name="cactus">{{cite web|title=TEFL Pay|url=http://www.cactustefl.com/get_started/tefl_pay.php|work=Cactus TEFL|accessdate=2010-05-19|quote=There does however seem to be a basic TEFL LAW, which states that if you're on a full-time contract of 24-26 teaching hours per week, you will have enough money to pay rent in a modest, possibly shared apartment, pay for food, get out and about to explore at weekends, have the odd beer or glass of wine of an evening, and, over the period of your contract, get some money put aside for flights home at Christmas. Generally speaking, you tend to live fairly basically, and what you earn is not usually enough to support partners, family back home or pay back debts or mortgage instalments. In many ways, TEFL can be a bit of a return to your student days, where there is less emphasis on material 'stuff' and more in being absorbed into the culture of the experience.}}</ref> EFL Teachers who wish to earn money often target countries in East Asia such as China, South Korea and Japan where demand is high. The Middle East is also often named as one of the best paying areas, although usually better qualifications are needed: at least a CELTA and one or two years' experience.<ref name="TEFLicious">{{cite web|title=TEFL Salary Map|url=http://www.teflicious.com/typical-tefl-salary/|work=TEFLicious|accessdate=2014-04-21|quote=Hover over a country to see average monthly pay and required qualifications.}}</ref> |
As in most fields, the pay depends greatly on education, training, experience, seniority, and expertise. As with much [[expatriate]] work, employment conditions vary among countries, depending on the level of [[economic development]] and how much people want to live there. In relatively poor countries, even a low wage may equate to a comfortable [[middle class]] [[lifestyle (sociology)|lifestyle]].<ref name="cactus">{{cite web|title=TEFL Pay|url=http://www.cactustefl.com/get_started/tefl_pay.php|work=Cactus TEFL|accessdate=2010-05-19|quote=There does however seem to be a basic TEFL LAW, which states that if you're on a full-time contract of 24-26 teaching hours per week, you will have enough money to pay rent in a modest, possibly shared apartment, pay for food, get out and about to explore at weekends, have the odd beer or glass of wine of an evening, and, over the period of your contract, get some money put aside for flights home at Christmas. Generally speaking, you tend to live fairly basically, and what you earn is not usually enough to support partners, family back home or pay back debts or mortgage instalments. In many ways, TEFL can be a bit of a return to your student days, where there is less emphasis on material 'stuff' and more in being absorbed into the culture of the experience.}}</ref> EFL Teachers who wish to earn money often target countries in East Asia such as China, South Korea and Japan where demand is high. The Middle East is also often named as one of the best paying areas, although usually better qualifications are needed: at least a CELTA and one or two years' experience.<ref name="TEFLicious">{{cite web|title=TEFL Salary Map|url=http://www.teflicious.com/typical-tefl-salary/|work=TEFLicious|accessdate=2014-04-21|quote=Hover over a country to see average monthly pay and required qualifications.}}</ref> |
||
There is a danger of [[Exploitation of labour|exploitation]] by employers. Spain |
There is a danger of [[Exploitation of labour|exploitation]] by employers. Spain has encountered criticism{{by whom|date=April 2013}} given the overwhelming number of small to medium businesses (including TEFL schools) which routinely dodge the teachers' social security contributions as a means of maximizing profits.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Ways to Make Money as a Nomad Expat {{!}} Planet Asia|url = http://planetasia.org/how-to-make-money-as-nomad-expat|website = Planet Asia|accessdate = 2015-12-11|language = en-US}}</ref> The result is that most teachers are entitled to less unemployment or sick pay than they would be entitled to if their salaries and contributions were declared in accordance with the law. Similar situations increase in countries with labor laws that may not apply to foreign employees, or which may be unenforced. An employer might ignore [[contract]] provisions, especially regarding [[Working time|working hours]], working days, and end-of-contract payments. Difficulties faced by foreign teachers regarding language, culture, or simply limited time can make it difficult to demand pay and conditions that their contracts stipulate. Some disputes arise from [[cross-cultural]] misunderstandings. Teachers who can't adapt to living and work in a foreign country often leave after a few months. It is especially difficult at this time for teachers to recognize which jobs are legitimate, as many of the leading jobs boards allow unfiltered paid posting.{{Citation needed|date=August 2017}} |
||
==TEFL region and country locations== |
==TEFL region and country locations== |
Revision as of 07:38, 13 November 2017
![]() | It has been suggested that this article be merged into Teaching English as a second language. (Discuss) Proposed since February 2016. |
![]() | This article has multiple issues. Please help improve it or discuss these issues on the talk page. (Learn how and when to remove these template messages)
|
Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) refers to teaching the English language to students with different first languages. TEFL can occur either within the state school system or more privately, at a language school or with a tutor. TEFL can also take place in an English-speaking country for people who have immigrated there (either temporarily for school or work, or permanently). TEFL teachers may be native or non-native speakers of English. Other acronyms for TEFL are TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language), TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), and ESL (English as a second language, a term typically used in English-speaking countries, and more often referring to the learning than the teaching).[1]
Teaching techniques
Reading
TEFL that uses literature aimed at children and teenagers is rising in popularity. Youth-oriented literature offers simpler material ("simplified readers" are produced by major publishers), and often provides a more conversational style than literature for adults. Children's literature in particular sometimes provides subtle cues to pronunciation, through rhyming and other word play. One method for using these books is the multiple-pass technique. The instructor reads the book, pausing often to explain certain words and concepts. On the second pass, the instructor reads the book completely through without stopping. Textbooks contain a variety of literature like poetry, stories, essays, plays etc. through which certain linguistic items are taught.
Reading aloud to students who are learning English as a foreign language is a highly effective strategy to assist them in learning the basic rules and understandings of the process of reading. When teachers read aloud to their students, they simply model fluency and comprehension, while also adding visual support, periodic paraphrasing, and extension.[2] When choosing an appropriate text for the student, both the vocabulary and concepts of the text that may be new to the student need to be considered.[2] To make sure they get definite understanding of the text, engaging the students during reading will assist them with making connections between what is being read and the new vocabulary.[2]
Communicative language teaching
Communicative language teaching (CLT) emphasizes interaction as both the means and the ultimate goal of learning a language. Despite a number of criticisms,[3] it continues to be popular, particularly in Japan, Taiwan,[4] and Europe. In India CBSE ( Central Board of Secondary Education) has adopted this approach in its affiliated schools.
The task-based language learning approach to CLT has gained ground in recent years. Proponents believe CLT is important for developing and improving speaking, writing, listening, and reading skills, and that it prevents students' merely listening passively to the teacher without interaction. Dogme[5] is a similar communicative approach that encourages teaching without published textbooks, instead focusing on conversational communication among the learners and the teacher.[6]
Blended learning
Blended learning is a combination of face-to-face teaching and online interactions (also known as computer-assisted language learning), achieved through a virtual learning environment (VLE).
VLEs have been a major growth point in the English Language Teaching (ELT) industry over the last five years. There are two types:
- Externally hosted platforms that a school or institution exports content to (e.g., the proprietary Web Course Tools, or the open source Moodle)
- Content-supplied, course-managed learning platforms (e.g. the Macmillan English Campus)
The former provides pre-designed structures and tools, while the latter supports course-building by the language school—teachers can blend existing courses with games, activities, listening exercises, and grammar reference units contained online. This supports classroom, self-study or remote practice (for example in an internet café). Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan in India has launched a web portal ECTLT where learners can learn English and other subject online and interact with their own teachers of KVS across the country.
Online classroom
Advances in technology have made it possible to get a TEFL qualification online. Students can enroll in online classes that are accredited by organizations such as the British Council or Cambridge ESOL. It should be noted that there is no single overarching accreditation body for TEFL however private for profit tefl companies have been known to invent accreditation affiliates and use them to cheat the customer.[7] Study materials are divided into modules. Students take one or multiple tests per study module. Support is handled by tutors, who can be reached via email. After successfully finishing the last module the student is granted a certificate. It comes in digital form or can be shipped to the student's address. Getting such a certificate can be beneficial in many ways. The student can get a bigger paycheck or teach English in foreign countries.
Qualifications for TEFL teachers
Qualification requirements vary considerably from country to country and among employers within the same country. In many institutions it is possible to teach without a degree or teaching certificate. Some institutions will consider it necessary to be a native speaker with an MA TESOL. A university degree in English language and literature can also be of value, as indeed can any specialist degree. Other institutions consider a proof of English proficiency, a University degree and a basic teaching qualification to be more than sufficient. However, the level of academic qualification need not be the most important qualification, as many schools will be more interested in your interpersonal skills. For trainers wishing to enter the academic field, publications can be as important as qualifications, especially if they relate to English use in your field. Where there is a high demand for teachers and no statutory requirements, employers may accept otherwise unqualified candidates. Each country is different, and acceptance depends on demand for English teachers and the teacher's previous teaching and life experiences.[8]
Private language schools are likely to require at least a certificate based on successful completion of a course consisting of a minimum of 100 hours. Major programs like EPIK will offer a higher salary to teachers who have completed any TEFL Course, online or otherwise, so long as the program meets the minimum 100-hour requirement.[9] Internet-based TEFL courses are generally accepted worldwide, and particularly in Asia, where the largest job markets exist in China, Korea, Taiwan and Japan.[10] For China the minimum TEFL requirement is 120 hours.
In Asia there has also been a tendency to hire TEFL teachers on superficial criteria, such as race (with Caucasians preferred) on the assumption that an English teacher or native English speaker should be 'white', this is proven especially true in Thailand, a big employer of TEFL teachers, with adverts frequently calling explicitly for native-English speakers. Partly this is driven by commercial expectations in the private sector, where parents feel that paying extra fees for TEFL teacher should warrant an American or British TEFL teacher, the schools will not risk losing students over this.[citation needed]
Age/gender requirements might also be encountered. In some countries outside Europe and America, for example the Middle East, schools might hire men over women or vice versa. And they might hire only teachers in a certain age range; usually between 20 and 40 years of age. Anyone under 19 may be able to teach TEFL, but usually only in a volunteer situation, such as a refugee camp.[citation needed]
Pay and conditions worldwide
As in most fields, the pay depends greatly on education, training, experience, seniority, and expertise. As with much expatriate work, employment conditions vary among countries, depending on the level of economic development and how much people want to live there. In relatively poor countries, even a low wage may equate to a comfortable middle class lifestyle.[11] EFL Teachers who wish to earn money often target countries in East Asia such as China, South Korea and Japan where demand is high. The Middle East is also often named as one of the best paying areas, although usually better qualifications are needed: at least a CELTA and one or two years' experience.[12]
There is a danger of exploitation by employers. Spain has encountered criticism[by whom?] given the overwhelming number of small to medium businesses (including TEFL schools) which routinely dodge the teachers' social security contributions as a means of maximizing profits.[13] The result is that most teachers are entitled to less unemployment or sick pay than they would be entitled to if their salaries and contributions were declared in accordance with the law. Similar situations increase in countries with labor laws that may not apply to foreign employees, or which may be unenforced. An employer might ignore contract provisions, especially regarding working hours, working days, and end-of-contract payments. Difficulties faced by foreign teachers regarding language, culture, or simply limited time can make it difficult to demand pay and conditions that their contracts stipulate. Some disputes arise from cross-cultural misunderstandings. Teachers who can't adapt to living and work in a foreign country often leave after a few months. It is especially difficult at this time for teachers to recognize which jobs are legitimate, as many of the leading jobs boards allow unfiltered paid posting.[citation needed]
TEFL region and country locations
This section needs additional citations for verification. (June 2016) |
Europe
Major European cities have established language schools on-site or operated as agencies sending teachers to various locations. September is the peak recruiting month, and many annual contracts last from October until June. Employers prefer graduates with experience in teaching Business English or in teaching young learners.
Instructors from the United Kingdom and Ireland, countries within the European Union, do not need any visas to work within the EU, which reduces demand for non-EU teachers. Immigration laws require that non-EU job applicants submit documents from their home countries in person after the European employer files an officially documented job offer. If the worker has traveled to Europe to find the job, this means they must return home and wait for some time. Following the process correctly does not guarantee getting a visa. Many private-sector employers do not subsidise them at all, because they are able to hire the staff easily from the EU countries.
International schools hire some experienced and well-qualified non-EU teachers. Education ministries, i.e. those of France and Spain, offer opportunities for assistant language instructors in public schools. Part-time employment is usually allowed under an education visa, but this visa also requires proper attendance at an accredited EU college or university, institute, or another educational program. Other teachers work illegally under tourist visas, since the "don't ask, don't tell" method is the only viable solution to avoiding impossible bureaucracy and eventual job rejection.[dubious – discuss]
Despite claims from websites that sell courses, state schools often do not accept brief TEFL courses as a substitute for a university degree in English education.[14] In Spain it is impossible to get a job with a state school unless you go through the process of getting your foreign teaching degree accepted in Spain and then pass the civil service examination ("oposiciones").
Demand for TEFL tends to be stronger in countries which joined the European Union recently. They also tend to have lower costs of living. Non-EU teachers usually find legal work there with less difficulty. The Balkan former Yugoslav countries have seen recent growth in TEFL—private schools have recruited Anglophone teachers there for several years.
Very few foreign instructors work in Scandinavia, where stricter immigration laws and a policy of relying on bilingual local teachers apply.
Australia
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) showed that in 2006 there were 4,747 female English as a Foreign Language teachers (80.1%) and 1,174 male teachers (19.8%) in Australia.[15] Despite the worldwide financial crisis in 2008, the number of international students attending universities in Australia has remained high.
In August 2013, there were four hundred and sixty-two thousand international students paying full-fees in Australia, with students from China and India being the two largest markets.[16] Previously, international students applying to study at an Australian university were required to sit a test and were only accepted based on their academic performance and English language proficiency.[16] However, Australian universities are now providing alternative entry pathways into higher education programs to allow international students to improve both their English language and academic preparedness at the same time. Some of these alternative pathways include Foundation Studies and English Language Intensive Courses.[16]
Employment for teachers of English as a foreign language has risen by a rate of 45.3% over the past 5 years and is expected to grow very strongly through 2017.[17] In November 2012, the number of EAFL (English as a foreign language) teachers in Australia had risen to 8,300, and the projected number for 2017 is 9,500 teachers.[17] The top three regions in Australia for employment as an EAFL teacher is New South Wales: 49.5%, Victoria: 29.7%, and Queensland: 7.7%.[17]
Asia
Cambodia
Demand for English teachers in Cambodia has grown over the past decade, though the country has a small population and is dependent on foreign aid for much of its economic development, limiting growth.[18]
Cambodia was ruled by the French from 1863 to 1953, and therefore English was not the primary second language until recently. From the 1970s through to the 1990s, Cambodia experienced civil war and political turmoil which had a devastating effect on the national education system and the learning of a second language.[19] By 1979 it was estimated that 90% of schools had been destroyed and 75% of teachers were no longer working and foreign languages were not being taught.[19] However, in Cambodian schools today, English as a foreign language is taught from Grade 7 onwards and is the most popular foreign language studied. Adults are also able to learn English through other non-formal English language education programs.[19]
Currently in Cambodia, there are professional, institutional, and governmental motivations for both teaching and learning English as a foreign language.[20] Results from studies on Cambodia show that the ability to speak English is an important component required to transform the standard of life for the people of Cambodia. The reason for this is that the people who are able to communicate in English are ones that are more likely to have opportunities to find better occupations with higher pay, as it is used to communicate with international businesses and organizations.[20]
China
Beginnings: Qing Dynasty
As Wang Kequiang stated (1986) TEFL has existed in China for approximately one hundred years and has been subject to the policies and politics of the times. TEFL in China actually began in the latter half of the 19th century with the "Westernization Movement" I started by some Chinese officials in the Qing Dynasty. With this movement came the influence of Western culture, trade and commerce. Some astute Chinese officials saw the need to learn English as a foreign language. The situation required establishment of institutes for teaching English. The first such Institute (called "Tongwenguan") was set up in 1862 and in 1901 became part of the Beijing Normal University. This institution was a comprehensive higher education facility which included TEFL in the curriculum.[21] Many opportunities exist within the People's Republic of China, including preschool, university, private schools and institutes, companies, and tutoring. NGOs, such as Teach For China, are an opportunity as well. The provinces and the Ministry of Education in Beijing tightly govern public schools, while private schools have more freedom to set work schedules, pay, and requirements.
English teaching salaries in China are dependent on multiple factors including; Teaching hours specified in contract, location, inclusions/bonuses, and public vs private sector. It is important to note that due to high demand, salaries have increased significantly over recent years. A standard contract within the public school system generally entails less than 20 hours of teaching time, weekends off, included accommodations, flight stipend/reimbursement for 1 year contracts, paid public holidays, medical insurance and Z visa (working permit) sponsorship. These positions offer an average base salary of 6,000 - 7,000 RMB per month in smaller cities and rural areas. In Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou these positions now offer 10,000 RMB plus per month due to higher living costs. The private sector is less uniform with salaries going as high as 20,000 RMB per month for DOS's in major cities.[22] Private positions tend to demand higher hours, may include teaching in multiple locations and often require weekend and evening working schedules. They also are more flexible with housing options, often offering teachers a choice between provided accommodations or a stipend towards rental costs.
By law, all non-Chinese English teachers should hold a minimum bachelor's degree in any discipline, be at least 25 years old, have at least 2 years of working experience (unrelated is fine).[23] English teachers should also be native speakers with citizenship from one of the following countries: USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa. [24] Due to demand, these rules are often overlooked, and schools often are able to obtain work permits for teachers who do not meet the minimums, although this is tightening up in the major cities.
Public schools usually pay during vacations, but not for summer break unless the teacher renews the contract,[25] while many private schools have shortened vacation schedules and may pay for whatever short number of days is allowed for vacation.
Company jobs vary, depending on the number of employees they want to train. They may employ a teacher for one or two classes, or a complete set of 14 to 16 hours a week. Tutoring also varies, as in some cases a whole family of students or just one family member.
Some teachers work successfully on an independent basis with several contracts for tutoring, individual college classes, and some company work. The majority of teachers accept contracts with schools. Public school contracts are fairly standard, while private schools set their own requirements. Schools try to hire teachers from Anglophone countries, but because of demand, others with good English language skills can find positions.
Be aware, there are many small businesses which recruit foreign teachers and find them either a formal job or tutoring positions for a placement fee. Many of these small businesses are known to rip off unsuspected foreigners. If offered positions or you feel this may be the case, a good search with Google may produce hopefully good reports. If possible, always try to skype or talk to a westerner currently working at that school to verify the quality of the position. For larger cities, there are large expat communities and many online groups which can be used for researching as well. Chinese app 'wechat' (similar to the Western Whats App) has a large number of these expat groups. There are also a few Facebook groups such as 'teachingjobsaroundchina' and 'ChinaTEFLers teachers and applicants' which were created by Expats listing quality safe jobs that the Expats have experience with. Also, blogs ran by TEFL teachers such as chinatefler.com or harro! are a good source of first hand information for building a picture of what to expect there.
Before deciding whether to work with the recruitment agency or school, ask their SAIC (State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs) business license number for Chinese schools. For foreign agencies, ask for their local business license number. For recruiter's websites make sure it has a clearly stated address. Remember, legitimate employers will offer you Z visa. Never accept working on tourist or business visa.[26] In general, working direct with schools gives preferential salaries and conditions to working for a Chinese agency. Recently, a new western agency Noon Elite Recruitment, a British agency ran by ex TEFL teachers for TEFL teachers, allows candidates to be directly hired and employed by a Chinese school without going through a Chinese agency. This new approach to cutting out Chinese agencies and having a company accountable under British law helps provide guarantees with the quality of positions.
As of February 2017 the legal process for processing and awarding Z-visas in China has become considerably more strict. Applicants now require a criminal background check, 120 hour of more TEFL certification and copy of a bachelor degree from a Western University[27]. Before the Chinese employer can issue an invitation letter to work in China all of these aforementioned documents are required to be notarised and legalised in the candidates home country and then verified in China after physically posting to your Chinese employer. This procedure is in addition to the existing visa process and it can take approximately 3 months from being given a job offer to having all the relevant permits to enter and start working in China.
Hong Kong
Hong Kong was once a British Crown colony, and English-language education is taken seriously there, as demonstrated by government-funded research.[11] Hong Kong was handed back to the People’s Republic of China in 1997 and became known as Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).
Teaching English in Hong Kong has become quite a business. Many English teaching institutions have since opened. Big private names include Headstart Group Limited and English for Asia. Native English speakers may quickly find a job teaching English, although foreigners should be aware of shady companies who often pull tricks on their employees. A qualification in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) has become a pre-requisite to enter the Native English-speaking Teacher scheme (NET scheme), which is funded by the HKSAR government and provides the ultimate career destination for an English teacher. On top of attractive salary, housing is provided with all the other fringe benefits including full holiday pay, provident fund and health insurance. Housing or rental support is the biggest incentive to foreign teachers as housing cost in HK is ranked one of the highest in the world.
Once a teacher is on the NET scheme, they can move from school to school after completion of, normally, a two-year contract. Therefore, a teacher has a lot of opportunities to land themselves an ideal position at an ideal school, provided they have strong track record. While many foreigners think coming to HK with a short online TEFL qualification is sufficient, both public and private schools are looking for TEFL qualifications listed with the Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Vocational and Academic Qualifications and Hong Kong Education Bureau. Acquiring one of those qualifications gives a foreigner a definite advantage to securing a preferred teaching position at a formal school, whether private or public, kindergarten, primary or secondary. When selecting NET, schools will not normally consider learning centre experience due to the differences in class size, continuity of student group, level of classroom management skills and sophistication in teaching pedagogy required between schools and centres.
Japan
In Japan, the JET Programme employs assistant language teachers and teaching assistants to work in Japanese high schools and elementary schools. Other teachers work in eikaiwa (private language schools), universities, and as Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs) in government and boards of education.[28]
The largest of these chains are Aeon and ECC. The sector is not well regulated. Nova, one of the largest chains with over 900 branches, collapsed in October 2007, leaving thousands of foreign teachers without income or, for some, a place to live. Agencies are increasingly used to send English speakers into kindergartens, primary schools, and private companies whose employees need to improve their Business English. Agencies, known in Japan as haken, or dispatch companies, have recently been competing among themselves to get contracts from various Boards of Education for Elementary, Junior and Senior High Schools, and wages have decreased steadily.[citation needed] JALT (the Japan Association for Language Teaching) is the largest NPO (not-for-profit organization) for language teachers (mainly native English speakers), with nearly 3,000 members.[29]
Laos
English language has been increasingly important in education, international trade and cooperation in Laos since the 1990s. The government started to promote foreign direct investment, and the introduction of Laos as an observer at ASEAN in 1992 also increased the necessity of English. Laos was considered as a full member of ASEAN in 1997. From 1992-97, the government had to improve its fluency in English.[citation needed]
More recently, high-ranking officials, business people, and shareholders have started to work at their English. This trend looks set to increase as English is due to be included and taught in the field of education too.
Middle East and North Africa
Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and other wealthy Gulf states are the main locations for instructors to work in this region. Many positions provide high salaries and good benefits such as free housing and flights, but tend to require extensive qualifications and experience. Private academies and university programs, variously referred to as Foundation Year or Preparatory Year programs that assist incoming students with academic preparation for university-level academic work, are the main venues of instruction. Some public primary and secondary schools, such as those in Abu Dhabi, have begun to recruit foreign English instructors.
Other Middle Eastern and North African countries offer more modestly-paid positions. Amideast and the British Council operate in a number of countries providing teaching opportunities in their English language courses.
English is also taught in Iran starting at the primary school level.
Mongolia
The Peace Corps has 136 volunteers in Mongolia, many of whom are English teachers[30] mostly teaching in the vast rural areas, where the population density is low. In Ulaanbaatar, a modest number of professional NETs teach at private institutes, universities, and some schools. In addition to foreign instructors from the major English-speaking countries, there are Filipinos teaching in Mongolian schools, institutes and large industrial or mining companies.
South Korea
There is great demand for native English speakers willing to teach in South Korea, though it is dropping. In 2013, the number of native English speakers teaching in public schools dropped 7.7% in one year to 7,011.[31] Most of the nation's provinces are removing foreign English teachers from their middle and high schools. As with Japan, Korea is also nurturing a government-run program for teacher placement called English Program in Korea (EPIK). EPIK reported that it recruited 6,831 foreign teachers to work in Korean public schools. There are a number of associations for English teachers in Korea, the largest one with a significant number of native speakers is KOTESOL.
Institutions commonly provide round-trip airfare and a rent-free apartment for a one-year contract. Note that since March 15, 2008, visa rules have changed. Prospective teachers must now undergo a medical examination and a criminal background check, produce an original degree certificate, and provide sealed transcripts. On arriving in South Korea, teachers must undergo a further medical check before they receive an ARC (Alien Registration Card) card.
Korean labor law provides all workers with a severance pay equivalent to one month's salary is paid at the end of a contract. Most job contracts are for 1 year and include entrance and exit plane tickets. Citizens of the USA, Canada and Australia[32] also receive back their pension contributions and their employers' part of the pension contributions on leaving the country. The average starting pay for those with no previous teaching experience and no degree in the English language is usually between USD $1,800 to USD $2,200.[33]
There are four main places to work in South Korea: universities, private schools, public schools (EPIK), and private language academies (known in South Korea as hagwons). Private language academies (in 2005 there were over thirty thousand such academies teaching English[34]), the most common teaching location in Korea, can be for classes of school children, housewives, university students (often at the university itself), or businesspeople. There are numerous, usually small independent hagwons but also numerous large chains.
Taiwan
In Taiwan, most teachers work in cram schools, known locally as bushibans or buxibans. Some are part of chains, like Hess and Kojen. Others operate independently. Such schools pay around US$2,000 per month. End-of-contract bonuses equivalent to an extra month's pay are not mandated by law as in South Korea, and are uncommon in Taiwan. Also, under current law it is illegal for foreigners to teach English in pre-schools or kindergartens, though it is almost always overlooked by both the schools and the government, thereby making the practice common and accepted. To teach English and live in Taiwan, you must be a holder of an Alien Resident Card (ARC), which is supplied to passport holders of native English speaking countries by hiring schools. ARC candidates must hold a bachelor's degree from a university.
In recent years Taiwan has increased its needs for TEFL and Certified Teachers in public schools. Qualifications and salaries for public school positions are based on certifications and experience. Also, benefits and salaries are more extensive than cram schools. The general job description would consist of: Teachers work 8 hours a day (8:00am-5:00pm), 5 days a week (Monday to Friday). Maximum teaching hours is 22 teaching periods per week. (Each teaching period is 40 to 45 minutes.) About 20 periods of preparation time per week. Teachers will assist in any subject-related activities at school or major school events, during weekdays and/or weekends (about 1 or 2 times per semester). Benefits would consist of:Renewal Incentives/PD Reimbursement/Accommodation/National health insurance/Airfare reimbursement/Vacations/** Monthly salary differs according to the teacher’s educational background and teaching experiences. It begins to NTD$62,720 for Bachelors Degree holder and NTD$69,965 for Masters Degree. The maximum pay is up to NTD$86,820 per month.
Thailand
Thailand has a great demand for native English speakers, and has a ready-made workforce in the form of travelers and expatriates attracted by the local lifestyle despite relatively low salaries. Teachers can expect to earn a minimum starting salary of around 25,000 Baht.[35] Because Thailand prohibits foreigners from most non-skilled and skilled occupations, a high percentage of foreign residents teach English for a living, and are able to stay in the country. There is also a growing demand for Filipino English teachers, as they are often hired for about half the salary of a native speaker. Qualifications for EFL teachers in Thailand have become stricter in the last couple of years,[citation needed] with most schools now requiring a bachelor's degree plus a 120-hour TEFL course .It is possible to find work without a degree in Thailand. However, as a degree makes getting a work permit far easier, to work without a degree is often to work illegally, opening teachers up to exploitation by employers.[36]
Americas
There has been significant growth in TEFL within the wealthier non-Anglophone countries of North, Central, and South America as well as the Caribbean. In particular, many teachers work in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Peru, Paraguay, Uruguay and Venezuela. Chile has even made it a national goal to become a bilingual nation within the coming years. As proof of its commitment to this goal the Chilean Ministry of Education sponsors English Opens Doors, a program that recruits English speakers to work in Chilean Public High Schools.[37]
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a popular choice among TEFL teachers in light of the high market demand for English instructors, the stable economic and political atmosphere, and the vibrant culture. Teaching positions are available through public and private schools, language schools, universities and colleges, and through private tutoring. Language schools typically hire all year round, and teachers of Business English are also in high demand. There are quality Costa Rica TEFL training courses that offer certification as well as job placement assistance following completion of a course.
Africa
TEFL in Africa has historically been linked to aid programs such as the US Peace Corps or the multinational Voluntary Service Overseas organization, as well as other aid programs. Most African countries employ bilingual local teachers. Poverty and instability in some African countries has made it difficult to attract foreign teachers. There has been increasing government investment in education and a growing private sector.
India
Additional English instruction takes place at levels of public and private schools.
Beginning as early as 1759, English language teaching in India has been occurring for more than two hundred and fifty years.[38] After Hindi, English is the most commonly spoken, written and read language of India, as it is used most commonly for inter-state and intrastate communication, acting as a ‘link’ language.[38] It is a very important language in some systems such as the legal, financial, educational, and business in India.[38]
However, having a foreign language become so popular in the country has also posed problems for the regional and traditional languages within the country. Indian languages, such as Hindi, are known and associated with tradition and are regarded as un-modern.[39] Today Hindi has been given the status of the official language of India, and English is accepted as the other official language.[39]
See also
- Applied linguistics
- English language learning and teaching
- Language education
- The Learning English Video Project
- List of countries by English-speaking population
- Second language acquisition
- Sociolinguistics
- Trinity College London ESOL
- Glossary of language teaching terms and ideas
- English Opens Doors
- Test of English as a Foreign Language known as TOEFL
- EF Standard English Test, open-access standardized English assessment tools
- Teaching English as a second language
- English as a second or foreign language
- CELTA
References
- ^ "What's the Difference: ESL, EFL, ESOL, ELL, and ESP?". SEL Trail. 2015. Retrieved 14 November 2015.
- ^ a b c Bolos, Nicole (November 2012). "Successful Strategies For Teaching Reading to Middle Grades English Language Learners: Teachers Can Employ a Variety of Classroom-Tested Strategies To Teach Reading To English Language Learners". Middle School Journal. 44 (2): 14–20. JSTOR 41763115.
- ^ Van Hattum, Ton (2006). "Communicative Approach Rethought". tonvanhattum.com.br.
- ^ "The Trend and Challenge for Teaching EFL at Taiwanese Universities". sagepub.com.
- ^ Meddings, Luke; Thornbury, Scott (2009). Teaching Unplugged: Dogme in English Language Teaching. Delta. ISBN 978-1-905085-19-4.
- ^ Luke, Meddings (26 March 2004). "Throw away your textbooks". The Guardian. London. Retrieved 22 June 2009.
- ^ "A Guide to TEFL Accreditation". The Guardian. Retrieved 23 April 2014.
- ^ "Distance learning courses can also be a good introduction, but feedback on your teaching practice is important and most distance courses will not include this, and therefore will not be acceptable to many teaching institutes." The British Council
- ^ "EPIK (English Program In Korea)-Pay Scale".
- ^ "Will this TEFL course be accepted or recognized?". eslinsider.com.
- ^ "TEFL Pay". Cactus TEFL. Retrieved 19 May 2010.
There does however seem to be a basic TEFL LAW, which states that if you're on a full-time contract of 24-26 teaching hours per week, you will have enough money to pay rent in a modest, possibly shared apartment, pay for food, get out and about to explore at weekends, have the odd beer or glass of wine of an evening, and, over the period of your contract, get some money put aside for flights home at Christmas. Generally speaking, you tend to live fairly basically, and what you earn is not usually enough to support partners, family back home or pay back debts or mortgage instalments. In many ways, TEFL can be a bit of a return to your student days, where there is less emphasis on material 'stuff' and more in being absorbed into the culture of the experience.
- ^ "TEFL Salary Map". TEFLicious. Retrieved 21 April 2014.
Hover over a country to see average monthly pay and required qualifications.
- ^ "Ways to Make Money as a Nomad Expat | Planet Asia". Planet Asia. Retrieved 11 December 2015.
- ^ Teacher Training (TEFL) Frauds, Frank Adamo
- ^ Yazdanpanah, Lily K. (February 2015). "A Quantitative Investigation of ESL Teacher Knowledge in Australian Adult Education" (PDF). Teaching English as a Second Language - Electronic Journal. 18 (4). Berkeley, California.
- ^ a b c Phakiti, Aek; Hirsh, David; Woodrow, Lindy (December 2013). "It's Not Only English: Effects Of Other Individual Factors On English Language Learning and Academic Learning Of ESL International Students In Australia". Journal of Research in International Education. 12 (3): 239–258. doi:10.1177/1475240913513520.
- ^ a b c "English Teachers (As a Second Language)". Open Universities Australia.
- ^ "The teaching placement is primarily in the English schools of Phnom Penh. However there are opportunities to teach business, healthcare and communications classes as well." Teach English In Cambodia
- ^ a b c Neau, Vira (2010). "The Teaching of Foreign Languages in Cambodia: A Historical Perspective". Language, Culture and Curriculum. 16 (3). doi:10.1080/07908310308666673.
- ^ a b Hashim, Azirah; Leong, Yee Chee; Pich, Pheak Tra (December 2014). "English In a Higher Education In Cambodia". World Englishes. 33 (4): 498–511. doi:10.1111/weng.12110.
- ^ "Teaching English as a Foreign Language in China". TESL Canada Journal.
- ^ "Disney English Language Learning Director in China". GaijinPot Jobs.
- ^ "Teaching Jobs in China". teachinchina.cn.
- ^ "Teach in China FAQ". TDE Recruit FAQ.
- ^ Dr. Gregory Mavrides (2008). "Travel and Medical Benefits for Foreign Teachers in China". Middle Kingdom Life.
- ^ "Finding A Safe And Honest Employer or School In China". eTeachersHub.
- ^ "Notarisation of documents for getting your Chinese Work Visa - Noon Elite Recruitment". Noon Elite Recruitment. Retrieved 27 May 2017.
- ^ Roberts, Clair. "Teaching English as a Foreign Language". The TEFL Academy. Retrieved 13 June 2016.
- ^ "About JALT". jalt.org.
- ^ Peace Corps. "Mongolia | Asia | Peace Corps". Peacecorps.gov. Retrieved 2 August 2013.
- ^ . "Native English teacher head count continues decline-The Korea Herald". Nwww.koreaherald.com. Retrieved 2 August 2013.
{{cite web}}
: CS1 maint: extra punctuation (link) - ^ Australian Embassy, Republic of Korea: Australia-Korea Social Security Agreement
- ^ Bondi, Diaz (7 October 2015). "TEFL – Teaching English Abroad". Maximonivel. Retrieved 8 February 2017.
- ^ The Language Training Market In Korea (PDF) (Report). Industry Canada. April 2007. p. 6. ISBN 978-0-662-45857-9.
- ^ "Teach English in Thailand", With a degree, a respected TEFL qualification and all the relevant paperwork you can expect to earn a starting salary of around 25,000 Baht (US$800) a month but that could be as high as 60,000 (US$1850) depending on your experience and the location of the school.
- ^ "Government vs. Private Language Schools in Thailand" Some TEFL certificate providers have started offering residential courses in Thailand as a way of ensuring their students the necessary government-required experience and cultural awareness.
- ^ " South America becomes the most desired destination for teaching English positions and you must be a passport holder from the USA, Canada, Australia, UK, Ireland, South Africa or New Zealand to teach there" Teach English In Argentinia
- ^ a b c Hussain, Wajahat (May 2012). "English Language Teaching in India: A Brief Historical Sketch" (PDF). Language In India. 12 (5). ISSN 1930-2940.
- ^ a b Reddy, P. Sreenivasulu (February 2012). "Problems In Teaching/Learning English As a Second Language In India" (PDF). Language In India. 12 (2). ISSN 1930-2940.
Further reading
- Paul Z. Jambor "Protectionist Measures in Postsecondary Ontario (Canada) TESL", U.S. Department of Education: Educational Resources Information Center, 2012
- Brandt, C. (2006). Success on your certificate course in English language teaching: A guide to becoming a teacher in ELT/TESOL. London: Sage. ISBN 1-4129-2059-0, ISBN 978-1-4129-2059-9
- Paul Z. Jambor "The 'Foreign English Teacher' A Necessary 'Danger' in South Korea", United States of America; Department of Education - Education Resources Information Center, 2010
- Teaching English Abroad, Susan Griffith, Vacation Work Press, Oxford. Many editions. ISBN 1-85458-352-2, ISBN 978-1-85458-352-9
- Teach English in Italy, Frank Adamo, Lulu.com, Second Edition. ISBN 978-1-4461-9318-1
- English Teacher X Guide to Teaching English Abroad, English Teacher X, Amazon.com and Smashwords.com, 2010 ASIN: B004SOYD70 ISBN 1-4663-3005-8 ISBN 978-1466330054
External links
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/4a/Commons-logo.svg/30px-Commons-logo.svg.png)