Understanding common TEFL standards.
Table of Contents
Types of regulation: Accreditation and moderation.
Types of certificate: Levels and entry standards.
Types of regulation: Accreditation and moderation.
Accreditation and moderation, though often confused, are distinct processes.
- Accreditation: This is an external validation process where an authorized organization, such as a university, assesses the entire course delivery to ensure it meets specific criteria set for that certificate level. Typically, accreditation is granted once per course and may need renewal if significant changes occur in the course or its content.
- Moderation: This is an ongoing process, usually conducted annually or monthly, depending on the course. It involves regular review and adjustment to maintain consistent standards. Moderation can be performed by internal or external qualified personnel.
Reputable TEFL courses undergo both accreditation and moderation to ensure quality and consistency.
Types of certificate: Levels and entry standards.
TEFL qualifications vary widely, from brief weekend courses to extensive programs like a TEFL PhD, which can take up to eight years to complete.
120-Hour TEFL Certificate: This is the commonly accepted entry-level qualification for teaching English worldwide, available both online and onsite.
In addition to certification, some teaching roles may require other qualifications, such as being a native English speaker, holding a degree (in any field or specifically in English), or coming from a particular country. The specific requirements depend on the job and location, with higher-paying positions in affluent regions like the Middle East often demanding more qualifications and experience than entry-level roles in less wealthy countries.
Types of courses.
Three primary pathways lead to a 120-hour TEFL certification, each with distinct characteristics.
- Online courses: These are popular and offer flexibility, allowing participants to complete modules and assessments at their own pace from any location. Online courses usually consist of modular content with end-of-module tests and are the most common method for obtaining a 120-hour TEFL certificate.
- Onsite courses: These require attendance at a physical location, often necessitating travel unless a course is available nearby. Onsite courses typically last around four weeks and offer the advantage of practical teaching experience in real classroom settings.
- Combined courses: These integrate both online and onsite elements. Participants first complete the online portion, then attend an onsite session, usually lasting eight to ten days, to gain practical teaching experience.
For more information, explore our online and in-class TEFL course options.
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