Teaching the English language abroad is a beautiful way to travel and work simultaneously. This can be an unforgettable experience whether you want to explore foreign countries or pursue a meaningful career in teaching.
Why is teaching abroad desirable?
Teaching abroad is an excellent way to experience a foreign country and make new and unique memories. To travel the world while getting paid for it is a highly attractive option compared to the routine, dreary 9 to 5 job. In addition, nothing could be better than enjoying the life-long connections with a new community that comes with teaching abroad. One of the main steps to such a career is a TEFL or TESOL certification.
Tips to teach abroad
It is critical to make the right plans for a career to teach English abroad. However, before this becomes a reality, it is necessary to be informed about some crucial tips like the following:
Conduct research on options
Determine a list of options about countries where you would like to teach and research each area. All places have pros and cons, so ensure you know what to expect when you opt for a particular job in a specific location.
For instance, how long is your plan to teach in the country of choice? You may want to start in Thailand and spend the next year teaching in France. Note that certifications for different countries vary in stipulations and prices; ensure you know what applies to you.
Sort your priorities
At the outset, determine your financial and personal goals from the teaching stint abroad. Teaching abroad is a significant life experience that needs much planning. If you are pursuing a career in education, teaching experience in a foreign country is a great way to diversify your resume. On the other hand, if the objective is to travel in the long term, teaching English can help finance the adventures. Whatever the case, it is imperative to sort your priorities before making any significant decisions.
Define a timeline
The benefit of timelines is that they help the person stay on track and be organized while satisfying the stipulations required for teach-abroad assignments. However, it will take some time to complete the required certifications- for example, it is mandatory for a TEFL certification to attend 120 hours of training that typically takes 4 to 6 weeks to complete. Also, schools in various countries have different start and close dates. So, these must be considered while applying for work.
Determine a budget
Creating a budget is equally important as defining a timeline. Note that the cost of living differs from one country to the other. The range of salaries of teachers depends on the location of the job and the certifications they carry. Certain teach-abroad jobs offer housing or accommodation, so it is good to check for the same while applying. Save money as per your financial goals after accounting for all your expenses.
Get certifications
The teaching assignment that is chosen may mandate certifications like TEFL or TESOL. TEFL refers to teaching English in settings where it is not the major language (in foreign countries). TESOL applies to teaching English to non-native speakers in both Australia and abroad. So, get the right certification to launch your career abroad. One can do well with TESOL courses online.
Do some networking with alumni
Connections with alumni are especially useful for new teachers getting ready for jobs in foreign countries. In addition, alumni connections will help yield valuable information relevant to such teachers. Scout for opportunities via groups in social media or meetings sponsored by the training programs.
Understand students
The cornerstone of any meaningful relationship between teachers and students is their rapport. Take time to study and research the culture of international students. Devote some time during the class to fun activities and games to break the ice and build teacher-student relationships.
Management of classrooms
An important role of a teacher is to maintain decorum in the classroom. When students know clearly what is permissible and what is not, good management of classrooms is possible. Devote time to set up classroom rules and strictly stick by these. Concentrate on regarding students with fairness and respect.
Cultural expectations
When teaching abroad, you are sure to encounter cultural differences. Some of such differences are stark and obvious, while others are subtle. The imposition of cultural expectations on students must be avoided totally. To understand students, take the help of other teachers or alumni of the training programs.
For instance, making eye contact is regarded as a positive quality in the West, while in South Korea, this is frowned upon between teachers and students as a sign of disrespect.
Always be over-prepared
Do not come to an English class without a list of special activities to be organized in case there is free time after the lesson. Be prepared with games or worksheets if the lesson finishes early. Engage students with videos, games, music, maps, globes etc.
In sum, these are some tips to follow while embarking on a career teaching English abroad. You can have a highly fruitful experience with the right attitude and certifications.
